Over the ages, the art and techniques of beadwork have changed but they have been handed down through many generations of Iroquois and are still an important tradition today.

Linear Style | White on red beadwork | Flat multicolored beadwork | Raised beadwork

This bag is an example of the linear style, where the beads form lines. This style is inspired by early work using porcupine quills.

We find straight lines, curved lines, geometric designs and borders. The lines most often trace the shape of flowers, hearts, suns, and, occasionally, animals and people.
The designs on these objects are of flowers and plants in pastel colors. Different colors are used to reproduce the shadows. At the centre of beadwork flowers, we often find a stylized flower with tapering petals. A hundred years ago, these objects were refined commodities, highly appreciated by Euro-North Americans and tourists, for whom the Iroquois made them. This particular style corresponds to a strong fashion and taste for nature in all its forms.

Linear Style | White on red beadwork | Flat multicolored beadwork | Raised beadwork