Native American Belt Athabaska Athabasca Fort Yukon Northern Commercial Co VINTG

Many pieces were handmade by Indigenous tribes such as the Inuit, Yupik, Tlingit, Athabascan, and Aleut peoples. Antique and vintage pieces are especially valued for their detailed handwork, authentic materials, and connection to Native heritage. This particular belt features a whimsical pattern of hearts and flowers.

It's 28" long, with 2 x 7" leather strings for tying. There's one small area where the beadwork is frayed, please see photo.

It's backed with white hide, and bears the Northern Commercial stamp on the back. I'm guessing it was made during the 1960s or 70s because of the cute hearts and flowers pattern. I'm thinking this belt would have appealed to tourists in the 60s or 70s, and would have been considered a "hip" adaptation of traditional concepts.

It's still beautiful today. Native American jewelry and beadwork continue to be highly collectible today. Authentic older pieces may hold cultural, artistic, and monetary value depending on their age, condition, craftsmanship, and tribal origin. Collectors often seek handmade beadwork because no two pieces are exactly alike, making each item a unique representation of Indigenous artistry and tradition. This is a beautiful piece.

As always, a small portion of sales goes to a worthy charity. In this case, it's Kiva, a micro-lender that helps people all over the world have access to small loans.

---