The relationship between the Plains Indians and the horse was one of profound symbiosis, transforming their lives and cultures in countless ways. While the war horse often receives significant attention for its role in battles and displays of prowess, the hunting horse held an equally vital position, particularly in the procurement of buffalo, the cornerstone of their existence. Unlike the elaborate and often aggressive symbolism adorning the war horse, the hunting horse was decorated with a specific set of symbols intended to ensure a successful and safe hunt, invoking the favor of the Great Spirit and celebrating the vital connection between the hunter, the horse, and the prey. This article delves into the rich symbolism painted onto these invaluable equine partners.
The Indian hunting horse, a vital component of survival on the Great Plains, possessed unique characteristics that set it apart. Bred primarily from Spanish and Barb stock, these horses were prized for their speed, stamina, and inherent courage. The buffalo hunt demanded a horse capable of not only galloping alongside a powerful and unpredictable animal but also possessing the agility to evade sudden charges and the bravery to "cut" a wounded buffalo from the herd, preventing it from being trampled. A horse that panicked could mean instant death for the rider, highlighting the critical importance of a calm and courageous mount. The Indian symbols used on the hunting horse reflected the horse’s role in these hunts.
The decoration of the hunting horse was a sacred privilege, typically bestowed upon the hunter’s wife, or, in the case of an unmarried hunter, his mother. This act was not taken lightly; the woman would approach the task with reverence, meditating on the meaning and purpose of each symbol before carefully applying it to the horse’s coat. This process was a spiritual undertaking, an offering to the Great Spirit, and a plea for a successful hunt.
The symbols themselves were not merely decorative; they were imbued with specific meanings and intentions. Each symbol represented a hope, a prayer, or a recognition of the forces at play in the delicate balance of the hunt. Some of the most common and significant symbols included:
- Sun of Happiness: Represented by a radiant circle, the Sun of Happiness was a crucial symbol, intended to ensure clear skies and favorable weather for the hunt. The Plains Indians traditionally avoided hunting during rainstorms, viewing it as disrespectful to both the Great Spirit and the buffalo. The presence of the Sun of Happiness symbol was a plea for benevolent conditions, essential for a successful and safe hunt.
- Circle of Vision: Painted around the horse’s eye, the Circle of Vision symbolized enhanced sight and awareness. Its purpose was to grant the horse the ability to spot the distant buffalo herd first, providing a crucial advantage to the hunter. Keen eyesight was essential for locating the prey across the vast expanse of the plains, and this symbol served as a visual invocation for such clarity.
- Fence: This symbol, typically placed on the horse’s jaw, was believed to act as a safeguard, helping to "keep in" good luck and prevent misfortune from befalling the hunter and his horse. The Fence represented a protective barrier, a spiritual enclosure designed to contain positive energy and ward off negative influences.
- Sacred Buffalo: The Sacred Buffalo symbol served as a gesture of gratitude to the Great Spirit for past hunting successes. It was a visual acknowledgment of the buffalo’s vital role in the tribe’s survival and a demonstration of respect for the animal’s spirit. By displaying this symbol, the hunter conveyed his appreciation for the sustenance provided and sought continued favor in future hunts.
- Arrow of Swiftness: Painted on the horse’s legs, the Arrow of Swiftness was a direct request for increased speed and agility. This symbol was crucial, as the ability to keep pace with the buffalo was paramount to a successful hunt. The Arrow of Swiftness served as a visual reminder of the desired outcome, a plea for the horse to possess the necessary speed to overtake and maneuver alongside the prey.
- Buffalo Tracks: The Buffalo Tracks symbol, often painted over the horse’s hips, symbolized past hunting successes and the hope for future abundance. It served as a reminder of previous bountiful hunts and a visual affirmation of the hunter’s skill and the horse’s capabilities. The presence of these tracks was a celebration of past victories and an optimistic outlook towards future endeavors.
- Secret Prayer: Perhaps the most intriguing symbol was the "secret" prayer, drawn on the horse’s hindquarters. This prayer was never revealed to the hunter before the hunt. Its meaning remained a mystery until after the hunt’s conclusion. If the hunter returned successful, the woman would proudly explain the meaning of her chosen symbols and the "lucky" prayer, solidifying her reputation and potentially leading to its repeated use in subsequent hunts. However, failure brought shame. An unsuccessful hunt implied that the prayer was ill-chosen, leading to gossip and embarrassment for the woman, who was then perceived as unhelpful to her provider.
The consequences of a failed hunt could extend beyond mere embarrassment. In some instances, the hunter might express his disappointment through physical punishment, though others might show compassion and share in the disgrace, perhaps suggesting that the prayer would bring double the luck on the next hunt. This illustrates the complex dynamics within the tribe and the weight placed upon the woman’s role in ensuring a successful hunt through her choice of symbols.
While tribal tradition dictated the application and meaning of the symbols, the choice of horse color was often left to individual preference. Bay horses were sometimes considered too common, while sorrels and roans were more highly valued, with roans often referred to as "scorched." However, pintos were particularly favored, not only for their striking appearance but also for their natural camouflage, which could provide an advantage during the hunt. If a hunter did not possess a pinto, he might even paint his white or gray horse to resemble one. Another favored mount was the Appaloosa, known as "freckled rump," believed to have originated with the Nez Perce Indians. The Indian symbols used on the hunting horse were often displayed best on the preferred coats.
The Indian symbols used on the hunting horse are a window into the beliefs, values, and daily life of the Plains Indians. Although the days of riding against enemies and chasing vast buffalo herds are largely gone, the artistry and symbolism associated with the hunting horse continue to be celebrated and preserved in contemporary art. These symbols serve as a powerful reminder of the deep connection between the people, their horses, and the land they inhabited, offering a glimpse into a rich and complex cultural heritage.
The legacy of the Indian symbols used on the hunting horse persists, reminding us of the ingenuity and spiritual depth of Native American cultures. The care taken in selecting and applying each symbol, the reverence for the Great Spirit, and the profound connection with the horse all speak to a way of life deeply intertwined with the natural world. The Indian symbols used on the hunting horse not only facilitated successful hunts but also reinforced the community’s values, beliefs, and the vital role of women in ensuring its prosperity.