Native American Shield/Ornament - Medicine Bear Shield

The shield of buffalo hide, carried by most Plains warriors, was valued more for its medicine power and spiritual protection it gave the owner than for its practical use in warding off arrows and spear thrusts. To the man who carried one, it was considered his most sacred possession. The medicine power was contained in the design painted on it and its other decorations. The designs were received in dreams along with the ceremonies and taboos connected with the shield.

These mini shields are handmade and painted on genuine leather by Middle Waters, producers of Native American Ornaments and Collectibles. Each shield comes with a legend explaining the meaning of the design.

Medicine Bear Shield
Native Americans believed that everything in nature possessed mystical powers. They called upon these powers for healing. When seeking assistance from an animal spirit, the emblem of the creature was used. 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 which was regarded as a life-giving force. To ensure survival of the people, white symbolizes cleansing and the soul.

Size: 3 inches. USA made. South Dakota. Non-native made.