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In all Plains Indians societies there were contrary people, who, because of a sacred vision usually associated with Thunder Beings, had to assume the role of doing things that were in direct conflict with the normal way life should be lived. If you were to be quiet during a dance, these contrary people would make noise. If you were not to smoke during a ceremony, they would smoke.
Contrary people went through a terrible internal struggle, and because they gave so much of themselves to follow their vision they had the right to demand something back from the other members of the tribe. They were also teachers. By performing their contrary, unacceptable actions, they showed the young, in a clear fashion, what not to do. The name of the society itself, Rotten Belly, was selected because it is contrary to names usually taken.
The Rotten Belly Shield identifies its owner as a member of the contrary society. The shield is trimmed with turkey feathers, a grass stuffed ermine, brass bells, and a coyote fang.
Approximately 21” diameter
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