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Tatanka, the buffalo, thundered across the Great Plains and was the most powerful animal faced by hunters. Standing over six feet tall at the hump and weighing up to a ton, the buffalo was seen as a manifestation of the wisdom and generosity of Wakan Tanka (The Great Mystery). Food, clothing, medicine and shelter – the physical and spiritual needs of the people were met by Tatanka and the identity and existence of the people and the animal were intertwined. A representation of Wakan Tanka, the Buffalo People and Whope, the White Buffalo Calf Woman who brought the first pipe to the Plains People and taught them the sacred ceremonies, serving as conduits for prayers to Wakan Tanka. Skulls were also placed outside of lodges, communicating information about the dwellers inside as well as protecting them.
An ancient religious symbol, the wheel divided by four bars 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 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.
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| Price: $560.00
Buyer to pay shipping of $35.00.
Minnesota residence add 6.5% sales tax.
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