The blanket with central canvas panel with geometric and valero star patterned beaded hide. Each spirit has a color which corresponds to an element and allows to acquire specific skills, the cardinal points and their intermediates; the big star 8 branches for example. The spirit of the East, it is generally eagle, south , frog , West, Bear, North White Buffalo Calf . They also correspond to the stages of life and the path to wisdom and invoked during ceremonies. This saddle blanket is in good condition; later hide fringes and some wear as seen in photo. Measures 25" x 59" . Circa 1875
Impeccable provenance. Ex. The Niagara Falls Museum. Ex. Billy Jaimeson
