Iroquoian tree of life design

[Lee Winterhunter]

Asking a favor for a friend...

She wants to make a wrap skirt with the "Iroquoian tree of life design" on it. She's seen a less-than-clear depiction of this in Whispering Winds and would be grateful for info on where to get a clear photo, drawing, or pattern.

The design begins in the lower-right-hand corner of the wrap skirt (as you would look at the person wearing it) and extends diagonally up and to the left.

If anybody can help, I thank you much. Responses here or on private message would be fine!

Megwetch in advance and sorry for all the cross-posting,
Lee

[raptor]

I thought I responded to this questionon another topic, but i guess it has disappeared into cyberspace or the whle topic was deleted.

The tree of life is practically required on an Iroquois wrap-around skirt, but does not often occur on tube skirts. It does not occur on kilts (At least not that I am aware of). Lyford has several variations on the design in her 'Iroquois crafts' and there are also some designs in the Akwesasne Mohawk Counselor Org. pamphlet, 'Iroquois Costume'.

I think both of these books are available in reprint editions from Irocrafts in Osweken, Can.

There are as many variations on the basic idea as there are skirts. Some look very 'treey' and some look more like flowers.
There is a sacred reference in the design to the Great Tree of Peace mentioned in the founding story of the league and to the Tree of Life in the creation stories. There may also be a turtle incorporated in the design at the bottom of the tree.

[Lee Winterhunter]

raptor, darlin', you sure did reply. I cross-posted like a crazy woman to try to get an answer for my friend, and you gave it. But this is even more for her and I sure will pass it along.

Bless you and thank you (again).
Lee