Lot 16: Knife with Quilled Sheath by: James Blake

This quilled knife sheath has been a truly rewarding project to work on. It’s inspired by an original piece collected among the Chippewa, according to its documented collection history. The original sheath is housed in the collections of the National Museum of the American Indian, and it served as the primary reference for creating this example.

James Blake was fortunate to examine and photograph the original sheath firsthand. offering invaluable insight from his study of the original piece. His documentation and input were instrumental in ensuring the recreation remains faithful to the details, construction techniques, and artistic integrity of the original.

James also had the privilege of working alongside well-known Historical Bladesmith John William, who crafted the accompanying knife for this set. Together, we’re donating the completed piece to the 2025 CLA Annual Auction. This partnership has allowed us to not only pay tribute to the artistry of early Native American quillwork but also to celebrate the tradition of collaboration within the craft community.

The process of recreating this sheath involved careful attention to traditional techniques and design elements, striving to capture both the spirit and aesthetic authenticity of the original. It’s always a meaningful experience to connect contemporary craftsmanship with historical inspiration, and I’m proud to be part of this project for such a respected event. I have attached some images of me examining the original.