Presented in this lot is an Original Blackfoot Peter Weasel Moccasin Hand-made Miniature Tipi. Peter Weasel Moccasin is a Blackfoot Elder from the southern Alberta, Canada community of Cardston. Peter grew up in the Kainai Nation, a First Nations band government in southern Alberta, Canada. They are one of three nations comprising the Blackfoot Confederacy: the Siksika, Peigan or Piikani, and the Kainai or Blood. The Blackfeet Nation of Southern Piikani is located in northern Montana. This is a polychrome small-scale model of the traditional conical tents historically used by nomadic peoples of the Great Plains, such as the Blackfeet and the Sioux, which were constructed from buffalo hides stretched over wooden poles. The design was highly functional, offering portability and flexibility to adapt to different weather conditions. Miniature tipis are frequently used as part of school projects to teach about Native American culture. This miniature tipi features painted images of wolves. In Blackfoot (Siksikaitsitapi) culture, wolves are revered as wise, spiritual beings that taught humans critical hunting techniques, such as the buffalo jump, before the advent of horses. The ancient "Wolf Man" story details direct instructions from wolves to humans, influencing both social behavior and hunting protocols. Wolves are seen as embodying strength, intelligence, loyalty, and family values, and are respected for their capacity to teach and provide for others. This miniature tipi displays wonderfully and professionally constructed painted canvas and hide with colours of black, brown, and yellow with wood "pole" framework, opened smoke flaps and traditional lacing pins. Two figures representing a male and female Blackfoot couple are standing in front of the teepee, dressed in painted hide clothes wearing accessories meant to resemble beaded sashes, necklaces, moccasins, beaded trade blanket and a parfleche storage bag. Hanging from the top are a painted ration bag and a painted quiver. Indian reservation "ration cards" were used in the late 19th century to distribute food to Native American tribes on reservations. The cards are seen as symbols of conquest and the forced assimilation of Native Americans. The miniature tipi sits on a solid wood base in well preserved condition, slight repairs observed to left smoke flap and "pole". Measures 12.75"W x 16.25"L x 19.5"H, weight is 2lb, 4oz.