Many of the outstanding objects in Blackfoot material culture are related to the role of the horse in that society. Whereas women used high pommelled, comfortable saddles for riding, the men preferred pad saddles which permitted easier movement. The latter type consisted of skin pillows stuffed with buffalo wool or grass. The saddles were frequently decorated with quill or beadwork. Collected during the last quarter of the nineteenth century, this saddle illustrates the impressive effects which could be achieved by the skilful application of beadwork.
Courtesy: National Museum of Man, National Museums of Canada
