Bidspirit auction | 3 Pueblo Snake Clan Decorated

3 Pueblo Snake Clan Decorated Hide Strips - Group of three 19th century Rio Grande Pueblo elk hide Snake Clan leggings or gaiters. These elk hide strips, likely wrapped around each leg for protection against snake bites, are attributed to the Snake Clan of the Rio Grande Pueblos. The longest of the three features a remnant of sinew along one edge, suggesting it may have been sewn to the upper edge of a moccasin. It is also decorated with micaceous paint, a material associated with pottery traditions from the Taos, Picuris, Jemez, Tesuque, and Nambe Pueblos. The other two strips are decorated with anthropomorphic rattlesnake designs. During the latter half of the 19th century, only a few Rio Grande Pueblos continued to practice the Snake Dance, which may relate to the ceremonial use of these items. Length ranges from 49 in to 70 in; width ranges from 10 in to 14 in. Condition: Heavy wear throughout including some losses and soiling. Some small sinew repairs throughout.