Cradleboard with Doll

Making such an elaborate and accurate item in a small size may seem impractical; however, it was meant to teach young girls both proper construction techniques of a cradleboard and parenting skills. In this way, playthings were also a favorite teaching method for children.
This U-shape cradle board is cut from wood and covered with native tanned buckskin, fringed horizontally on the back and laced vertically in front with long buckskin thongs. The top section is partly beaded in arched rows with orange diagonal angler pattern separated in turquoise blue. The opening is trimmed with red and green trade cloth, laced with buckskin thong, and holds a buckskin doll. Six buckskin thongs attached to each side are decorated with green, clear, amber, and cobalt blue basket beads.