Description
Rain is precious in the semi-arid Northern Plains and Indians sought out its coming since all life depended on it. Especially celebrated was the arrival of spring and the first soaking rain that brought about a great cleansing of the earth and freshening of the air.
Impending storms were foretold by the behavior of birds, the spiritual patrollers of the skies. The raven, a bird of great wisdom, predicted events and recommended courses of action. Swallows, with the characteristic acrobatic flying agility, would appear when the rainstorm had passed signaling that is was safe again.
This little shield is constructed from split deer hide and hand painted with acrylic paint.