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Cameo of Chief Billy Bowlegs
Cameo of Chief Billy Bowlegs

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Cameo of Chief Billy Bowlegs

  • This important cameo brooch features the visage of Seminole Indian chief Billy Bowlegs
  • Bowlegs was among the last and the most resilient Seminole War leaders
  • This cameo represents the man's enduring legacy and historic importance
  • Carved from labradorite, the piece shimmers with a lovely blue iridescence
  • Get complete item description here
$34,500
Item No. 30-8581

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Description
One of history's most important American Indian leaders, Seminole Indian chief Billy Bowlegs (also known as Holata Micco, or "Alligator Chief"), is represented in this exceptionally rare cameo brooch. He is faithfully depicted in the distinctive clothing of the Seminole tribe, including a feather headdress and large hoop earring. Intricately carved from a stunning specimen of labradorite, the cameo shimmers with a lovely blue iridescence that brings this legendary figure to life. 

Descended from. . .
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One of history's most important American Indian leaders, Seminole Indian chief Billy Bowlegs (also known as Holata Micco, or "Alligator Chief"), is represented in this exceptionally rare cameo brooch. He is faithfully depicted in the distinctive clothing of the Seminole tribe, including a feather headdress and large hoop earring. Intricately carved from a stunning specimen of labradorite, the cameo shimmers with a lovely blue iridescence that brings this legendary figure to life. 

Descended from a line of Seminole Indian chiefs, Bowlegs was among the last and the most resilient Seminole War leaders. He rose to power during the Second Seminole War, when his successful use of guerrilla warfare frustrated the attempts of American military forces to remove American Indians from Florida. Bowlegs' warriors were counted among the most fearsome of the Seminole tribes - when hostilities ended in 1842, they were considered the most prominent survivors. 

Peace lasted for several years, until fighting broke out again in 1855 after a group of surveyors destroyed plants and property in Seminole territory. Bowlegs responded by again engaging in guerrilla warfare, beginning the Third Seminole War. After several years of attacks, Bowlegs and his tribe agreed to relocate to Indian Territory in Arkansas in 1858.

Tales of Bowlegs' resistance remain legendary in Florida and beyond. After his death in 1859, a number of Seminole warriors adopted the name Billy Bowlegs to honor the fallen chief, while a spring in Fort Myers, Florida also bears his name. This cameo represents the man's enduring legacy and historic importance.

Circa 1855

1 5/8" high x 1 5/16" wide
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Cameo of Chief Billy Bowlegs
Period: 19th Century
Origin: America
Type: Brooches
Depth: 0.5 in. (1.27 cm)
Width: 1.31 in. (3.33 cm)
Height: 1.63 in. (4.13 cm)

Buy With Confidence

For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.

On Approval

On Approval

Examine select works in person before you commit

125% Guarantee

125% Guarantee

Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years

Trusted Expertise

Trusted Expertise

Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists

Learn More

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