Vintage Attikamekw Birch Bark Oblong Bowl Indigenous Craft Quebec

This is a traditional birch bark oblong bowl, attributed to the Attikamekw Nation of central Quebec, hand-crafted using established Indigenous techniques.

The bowl is formed from a single sheet of birch bark, folded and stitched into an elongated oval shape. The rim is reinforced with a fitted wooden hoop, secured with split natural fibre ties. The exterior decoration is created through selective stripping of the bark surface, revealing lighter layers beneath to form geometric and stylized floral motifs. No paint or applied pigment is used.  Difficult to ascertain exact age, but almost certainly mid-century.

Oblong bowls of this type were traditionally used for serving, gathering, or everyday domestic purposes, and are valued today for both their functionality and graphic visual presence. The form, material handling, and decorative language are consistent with Attikamekw barkwork traditions, which are distinct within the Algonquian woodland cultural region.

This piece is offered as a historic Indigenous utilitarian object. No claim of ceremonial or sacred use is made.

Details:

Cultural attribution: Attikamekw (Indigenous, Algonquian woodland tradition)

Materials: Birch bark, wood hoop, split natural fibre stitching

Form: Oblong / oval bowl

Top dimensions: 12" × 7 1/4"

Height: 3 1/2"

Decoration: Bark-stripped geometric and floral motifs

Origin: Central Quebec, Canada

Condition:  In very good condition with wear consistent with age. Surface abrasions, darkening, and natural bark variation are present. Stitching remains intact and the bowl is structurally sound. Please review photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.

This is a wonderful vintage Attikamekw oblong bowl - nice display object for the right setting or as an addition to a collection!