This slightly diminutive cradle is likely a rare “newborn” cradle. The inclusion of piece of wood at the foot of the cradle as well as painted boards, meanwhile, indicate that the cradle is probably of Comanche origin. Cradles such as these were loving collaborations between grandparents and parents. Men typically prepared the boards while women painstakingly produced the hides and beadwork. The minimal decoration speaks to an earlier generation of cradle, one that was intended for everyday use.

35” tall and 1.5” wide (overall); 23.5 tall and 8” wide (bodice)

#51087