The recent cold weather that the US and much of Europe is experiencing lately reminded me of just how important the buffalo was (and still is) to the Plains peoples. It fed them, housed them, and kept them warm, and is a part of the spiritual well being of the people. So I thought I would show a few of the many buffalo robes I have painted in the past (Please pardon some of the less than optimal photos).
These robes are painted in the traditional manner: Mineral pigment and trade pigments, hide glue binders and I used sticks and "brushes" made from buffalo bone to paint with. Painting robes in this technique allows the paint to bind with the hide (Of course. all these robes are brain tanned) instead of the paint floating on the top. It acts more like a stain than a paint.
This style of robe is known as a "Feather Circle" which represents the sun, and also what a feather bonnet looks like from the back. This style of robe is a mans type.
This robe is based on a Ojibway robe that was collected in the 1790's and is housed in France. It represents the Thunderbird. Personally, I love that as old as it is, it also has a very modern art look to it.
This style of robe is known as a "Box and Border" robe. It is a woman's style. It is thought to represent the internal organs of the buffalo, which were a very important part of the diet of the Plains people.
Angela
2 comments:
Wonderful Robes.. wonderful...
Stunningly beautiful, as always! Wow.
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