Vintage Birch Bark Rogan with Handle Anishinaabe Indigenous Storage Box Quebec

This is a traditional birch bark rogan (lidded storage container), attributed to the Anishinaabe (Algonquian woodland tradition) and accompanied by an original handwritten tag referencing Lac-Simon, Quebec, the location of an Anishinaabe reserve in the Abitibi–Témiscamingue region.

The rogan is hand-constructed from folded birch bark, stitched with plant fibre and reinforced with a wrapped band at the rim. The exterior decoration is created through selective stripping of the bark surface, revealing lighter underlying layers to form repeating geometric and floral motifs as well as a duck figure, rather than applied paint or dye. The lid features a fixed top handle, stitched in place, a less common but functional variation on this form.

The attached period tag appears to read “Lac Simon”, with additional handwritten wording that may reference a personal name or descriptive note (partially legible). The tag also bears a price notation and the year 1979, which is interpreted as the date of documentation or sale rather than a confirmed date of manufacture.

Rogans of this type were traditionally used as personal storage containers for small belongings, tools, or sewing items. No claim of ceremonial or sacred use is made.

Attribution & Dating

Cultural attribution: Indigenous, Algonquian woodland tradition

Likely Nation: Anishinaabe (Attikamek-related)

Referenced location: Lac-Simon, Quebec

Estimated date: Mid-20th century, documented 1979

Attribution rationale:
Birch bark construction, bark-stripped decoration, plant-fibre stitching, and the handled rogan form are all consistent with Anishinaabe material culture of western Quebec and eastern Ontario. The Lac-Simon reference on the original tag further supports this attribution.

Details

Materials: Birch bark, plant fibre stitching, hide strap

Bottom dimensions: 4 3/4" × 6 1/2"

Height: 5 1/4" (excluding top handle)

Form: Lidded rogan with fixed handle

Decoration: Bark-stripped geometric and floral motifs

Documentation: Original handwritten tag retained showing a price of $250 reduced to $150 in 1979

Condition: In very good condition with no notable defect - natural bark variation, surface abrasion, and darkening present. Stitching remains intact and the lid fits properly. Original tag shows age but is legible.

This is a very nice example of Canadian First Nations workmanship - excellent as a display piece in the right setting or as an addition to a collection!