The relationship between a Plains Indian warrior and his war horse was profound, extending far beyond mere utility. The horse was a partner, a brother-in-arms, and a vital component of survival and success in battle. This deep connection manifested in numerous ways, one of the most visually striking being the application of symbolic markings to the war horse’s body. These weren’t random decorations; instead, they were carefully chosen symbols, imbued with deep meaning and intended to invoke protection, courage, and power. While the specific symbols and their interpretations varied from tribe to tribe – reflecting diverse beliefs and experiences – certain motifs recurred, forming a shared visual language across the Great Plains.
The purpose of these painted symbols was multifaceted, carefully considered in light of the perils the war horse would face. These symbols might be intended to give him protection, to indicate the troubles which lay ahead, or which spoke of the courageous heart of the war horse. Some symbols told of the horse’s affection for the warrior. These symbols served as prayers, declarations of intent, and acknowledgements of the spiritual forces believed to influence the outcome of battle. Understanding these symbols provides a fascinating glimpse into the mindset of the Plains warrior, his reliance on spiritual power, and the immense respect he held for his equine companion.
Preparing for War: Practical and Spiritual Considerations
Before adorning his war horse with symbolic markings, the warrior would meticulously prepare the animal for battle, both physically and spiritually. Practical considerations were paramount. The horse’s tail was often knotted to prevent an enemy from seizing it and using it to dismount the rider. Similarly, the mane was gathered into clusters and tied to prevent it from interfering with the warrior’s bow and arrows during the heat of combat.
Beyond these practical measures, the grooming process itself was likely imbued with ritual significance. The act of carefully tending to the horse, applying the paint, and whispering prayers or intentions, served to strengthen the bond between warrior and horse and to invoke the protective powers of the symbols being applied. The warrior would decorate his horse with carefully chosen war symbols or power symbols which might be intended to give him protection, to indicate the troubles which lay ahead, or which spoke of the courageous heart of the war horse. Some symbols told of the horse’s affection for the warrior.
Common War Horse Symbols and Their Meanings
While tribal variations existed, several symbols were commonly used to decorate war horses across different Plains tribes. Each symbol carried a specific meaning, reflecting the warrior’s desires, beliefs, and hopes for success in battle.
-
Circle Around the Eye and Nostrils: A circle painted around the horse’s eye and nostrils symbolized heightened alertness and a keen sense of smell. These senses were crucial for detecting danger and navigating the battlefield, providing the warrior with an early warning system against potential threats.
-
Arrow Points in a Line: A line of arrow points represented the desire for victory. Each arrowhead was a visual declaration of the warrior’s intention to overcome his enemies and return home triumphant. The linear arrangement suggested a direct path to success, guided by skill and determination.
-
Thunder Stripes: Vertical stripes, often referred to as "thunder stripes," painted on the horse’s front legs were meant to honor and appease the tribe’s god of war. Thunder, a powerful and awe-inspiring force of nature, was often associated with warfare and the strength needed to prevail in battle. By invoking the power of thunder, the warrior sought to gain the favor of the war god and ensure victory.
-
Arrowheads on Hooves: Arrowheads painted on all four hooves were intended to imbue the horse with speed and agility. These markings served as a prayer for the horse to be swift and nimble-footed, capable of maneuvering through difficult terrain and evading enemy attacks.
-
Fire Arrows: The symbol of fire arrows represented the warrior’s intention to inflict trouble and chaos upon his enemies. The fiery imagery conveyed a sense of aggression and the desire to weaken the enemy’s resolve, thereby increasing the warrior’s own strength and chances of success.
-
Hand Prints: Hand prints, often outlined, painted on the horse’s chest signified that the horse had helped the warrior knock down an enemy. These markings served as a visual record of the horse’s bravery and contribution to the warrior’s success in combat. They were a tangible representation of the bond between horse and rider.
-
Hail Stones: Small dots or circles, representing hail stones, were a prayer for hail to fall upon the enemy. Hail, a destructive and unpredictable force of nature, was invoked to bring chaos and disarray to the enemy’s ranks, disrupting their formations and demoralizing their warriors.
-
Crossed Lines: Two crossing bars symbolized that the horse and rider had successfully escaped an ambush. This marking served as a testament to the horse’s alertness and the warrior’s skill in navigating dangerous situations. It was a badge of honor, signifying survival and resilience.
-
Hoofprints: Small hoofprints painted on the horse represented the number of horses captured in raids. This symbol served as a visual display of the warrior’s wealth, status, and success as a horse raider. Capturing horses was a common practice among Plains tribes, and it was considered a sign of bravery and skill.
-
Battle Scars and the Pat Hand Print: A horse’s battle scars, always painted red, were considered a mark of honor. The "Pat Hand Print," a left hand drawn on the horse’s right hip, was the highest honor that could be bestowed upon a war horse. This symbol was reserved exclusively for horses that had brought their masters home unharmed from particularly dangerous missions, signifying exceptional loyalty and bravery.
-
Upside-Down Handprint: The upside-down handprint was a particularly poignant symbol, reserved for men embarking on a "do-or-die" mission. It represented the ultimate sacrifice and the willingness to give one’s life for the tribe. This was the most prized symbol a warrior could place on his horse, signifying the gravity of the mission and the warrior’s unwavering commitment.
-
Shoulder Hand: According to Apache and Comanche legends, the handprint on the horse’s shoulder tells the story of a fierce battle where a warrior was fatally wounded. Before his death, the warrior patted his horse on the right shoulder, leaving a bloody handprint as a "message of death" to his people when the horse returned to camp.
Conclusion
The Indian symbols used on the war horse were far more than mere decorations. They were a complex system of visual communication, reflecting the warrior’s beliefs, desires, and the profound relationship between man and animal. These symbols served as prayers, declarations of intent, and testaments to bravery and loyalty. By understanding these symbols, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the Plains Indians and the vital role the horse played in their lives. The war horse was not just a tool of war; it was a partner, a symbol of status, and a spiritual ally, deserving of the utmost respect and adorned with symbols that reflected the warrior’s hopes and dreams.