Native American, southwestern United States, Pueblo Indians, Tewa group, ca. 19th century CE. A beautiful war shield made from a circular section of thick buffalo hide. The discoid shield has a thick periphery lined with dozens of perforations meant to display additional ornamentation, six knotted leather straps that shape a pair of hand holds, and a thick layer of desiccated mud on the verso to strengthen the overall design. The front of the shield bears a white ground that is decorated in polychrome motifs in hues of turquoise, vermilion, black, and lavender. An enclosed panel of black-bordered circles separates two red-painted avanyus, serpentine Tewa deities with zigzagging bodies that are symbolic of lightning strikes. The serpentine design of the Avanyus suggests that it is analogous to Quetzalcoatl, the Mayan feathered-serpent deity of similar symbolism. An incredibly rare example of fine Pueblo armaments! Size: 17" W x 16.75" H (43.2 cm x 42.5 cm)

Shields like this example were typically used in combat or wartime situations because of the thickness the buffalo hide provided in protecting the wielder. Dancing shields were of a smaller form and made from thinner material so the performer could easily maneuver the shield, and buffalo hide enabled the warrior to protect themselves from incoming projectiles as well as clubs swung by an opponent.

For a stylistically similar example of a smaller form, please see Sotheby's, New York "American Indian Art Including Property from the Estate of Paul Peralta-Ramos" auction (June 24, 2004, lot 146).

Provenance: private Glorieta, New Mexico, USA collection, acquired in 2011 to 2012; ex-Dick Hewlett collection, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA

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#152226

Two original leather handle straps missing. Slight bending to overall form commensurate with age, with minor fading and abrasions to original pigmentation, nicks to front, peripheries, and verso, otherwise intact and excellent. Light earthen deposits throughout and great traces of original pigment across obverse.