Gifts of Pride and Love: Kiowa and Comanche Cradles

2000

Thirty-eight Kiowa and Comanche historic lattice cradles, and two contemporary cradles — by a Kiowa artist and a Comanche artist — were featured. Brilliant in color and technical design, the cradles are among the most beautiful of Plains Indian beaded arts in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A symbol of cultural pride and bittersweet nostalgia for contemporary Kiowa and Comanche peoples, the cradles emphasize women’s artistry and are loving statements of the value the indigenous peoples of the Southwest place on their children. The exhibition was organized by the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology, Brown University.