Crow Painted Pictorial Hide Shield

composed of a circular section of thick buffalo parfleche, surmounted by a drawstring cover in finely tanned deer skin, painted in red, green and dark brown, with a bear, its claws extended, the upturned head with mouth slightly parted to reveal jagged teeth, enclosed by a series of concentric medallions, representations of the cosmos, together with an additional hide cover trimmed with an ermine tail, painted with red lineal designs.  

Richard Pohrt Collection
Morning Star Gallery

Typical wear but generally very good overall condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For a discussion of the meaning of animal iconography and the manifestation of the night sky on Plains shields see Curtis, 1909, 144: "It was a belief that spirits in the likeness of every animal species dwelt in the sky. From them the animals below received their mysterious powers and attributes, which they in turn transferred...to men. The animal spirits were believed to select men who bore a resemblance to themselves, to whom they would impart their spirit-strength."

Also see Lowie, 1922, p. 402: "Shields (minnatse) were sacred objects in as much as their decoration was revealed in visions; plain shields for ordinary use were not considered medicine. The protective quality of the former type was naturally attributed to the supernatural experience and men going into an important battle desired to carry one of them."  

A complete written analysis of this shield by Mike Cowdrey accompanies this lot and is available in the department prior to the sale. In his report, he describes the Crow constellation known as "Gizzly Bear Above" which is the inspiration for this shield and others.