Description
To the people, the Bear was a potent source of strength and healing. The paw prints on this medicine shield helped to invoke the power of the Bear to cure illness.
A long-standing spiritual connection has always existed with the Indians and the plants of their world. Plant spirits provided proper remedies for various diseases.
The color green honors the Earth and all that grows from the ground. Yellow represents the pollen from cattails. Considered a powerful medicine, cattail pollen was sprinkled on the sick and wounded for healing. The color red imparts respect for the sun that was regarded as a life-giving force. To ensure survival of the people, white symbolizes cleansing and the soul.
This little shield is constructed from split deer hide and hand painted with acrylic paint.