An ancient religious symbol, the wheel is divided by four bars which represents the four cardinal directions and all of creation that dwells in those regions. Assignment of meaning to the different directions varied from group to group, sometimes influenced by geographical factors. According to some, the west represented danger; it was the dwelling place of the thunder beings and the source of storms. The east represented knowledge and illumination, the source of the morning star each day. The north was associated with life and wisdom, the south with innocence and quiet. The hoop symbolizes the hoop of life itself which starts with birth, goes through youth to adulthood and middle age to old age and then to the completion of the hoop in rebirth here or in the spirit world.

The hoop mounting, made of leather and brass and accented with rabbit fluffs and imitation eagle feathers represent the never-ending circle of life. Approximately 24" by 26".

Made by Native American and non-Native American artists.

This item cannot be shipped outside the USA.