From
http://blog.csfineartscenter.org/201...ay-native.html
Quote"When thinking about shields, protection from physical harm may be the first idea that comes to mind. However, many Native Americans did not use shields merely for physical protection, but more as a form of spiritual guidance and protection, symbolizing a person’s experience during a vision quest.
Vision quests are a rite of passage, and represent the transition from childhood to adulthood. Quests required an individual to be alone in the wilderness, sometimes lasting up to four days. During this time, a person becomes connected with the spirit world, and would receive a vision by an animal or totem. After the quest was over, their vision would be interpreted by a medicine man or spiritual leader. The "interpretation" is transferred to the shield using various colors, designs and natural elements, and symbolizes the person's source of protection and power.
Keeping shields safe is important as they provide spiritual protection to the owner. Shields are carried or placed in a location of honor. They are often difficult to find in museums because there are usually buried with their owner, continuing to protect the spirit even in death and ensure a safe return to Mother Earth."Unquote.
On view in Honoring A Legacy: Breastplate (Sioux)
Breastplate (Mescalero Apache); Shield (Apache)