A circa 1950-1970's Crow beaded breastplate is a traditional Native American adornment that showcases the exquisite craftsmanship and artistic skills of the Crow people. The breastplate is made of buckskin leather and thicker leather, featuring a braided leather collar with two thicker leather side pieces strung along the center in leather. The center leather strip is adorned with conical glass trade beads in vibrant colors of yellow, orange, and red, showcasing intricate and beautiful beadwork. The outside edge of the breastplate is decorated with fringes, adding a striking and eye-catching element to the piece. The end also shows a braided leather strap. The Crow people are a Native American tribe that traditionally inhabited the Great Plains region of the United States, including Montana. They are known for their skilled horsemanship, hunting prowess, and beautiful beadwork and craftsmanship. The Crow people had a rich culture and history, with a deep connection to the land and the natural world. Breastplates were an essential part of the traditional dress of many Northern Plains Native American tribes, including the Crow people. These breastplates served both practical and ceremonial purposes, offering protection to the wearer during battle and representing their status and achievements within their communities. They were typically made of materials such as bone, horn, and leather, and adorned with intricate beadwork, quillwork, and other decorative elements. The breastplate was worn across the chest, with long fringes hanging down from the bottom edge, adding movement and elegance to the piece. In conclusion, the Crow beaded breastplate from the 1950-1970s is a beautiful and intricate piece of Native American artistry that showcases the rich cultural heritage and artistic skills of the Crow people. This piece is a representation of the important role that breastplates played in the traditional dress of many Northern Plains Native American tribes, including the Crow people. Overall the piece is approximately 16”W when laid out (not including fringes) by 33”L when hanging.