Turtle shaped amulet, North America, 1880-1920

Amulet in form of a turtle, made of hide decorated with beading. Worn by girl children around neck to ward off illness, Sioux Indians, USA, 1880-1920

Decorated with beading, this turtle-shaped amulet made from animal hide was made to to contain an umbilical cord. Turtles are associated with women’s health and fertility in many Native American cultures. Amulets like these, traditionally made by the child's mother or grandmother, were gifted to baby girls and worn until they reached puberty to ward off illness and premature death. Boys received similar containers in the shape of lizards, linked to speed and rejuvenation.