Name/Title
SashEntry/Object ID
1987.08.01Description
Assomption sash, "Ceinture Flechee" in French, woven in l'Assomption, near Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Also known as a Voyageur Sash because they were commonly worn by French-Canadians, Metis, and others employed in the fur trade. The sash is finger-woven, and uses the colors red, dark blue, olive green, tan, and light gold, in a pattern of arrow-head and lightning-like stripes. This sash was a common article of clothing among voyageurs, providing abdominal and back support as well as being fashionable. This sash measures 6 3/4 inches in width and 11 feet 4 inches in overall length, including fringe. The woven part is 6 feet 5 inches, and the remainder is fringe at both ends. The fringe is uneven at its ends, not blunt. The first inch of fringe is braided together. No tears, holes, or other damage at time of accession. The sash dates to c. 1840, and was authenticated by David Hansen, curator at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.Dimensions
Width
6-3/4 inLength
136 in