Pueblo Painted Buffalo Hide Shield

of circular form, painted with a series of vertical stripes in alternating colors, surmounted by a pair of horns.

V. J. Evans Collection, ACC. 113605; CAT 359057

Formerly in the collection of the US National Museum, now Smithsonian Institution, Washington DC; a copy of the inventory card is available from the department

Typical wear for age including minor surface abrasion. Blacklight reveals NO overpaint.
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 Pueblo shields see Wright, 1976, p. 8: "For the Indian, the painting on the shield was often more important that the actual physical protection it afforded. The decoration was a magical device used to blind and confuse the enemy in battle, or defeat him by countering his magic...The shield was believed to impart immunity from harm or to provide supernatural assistance to the carrier."