Medicine Horse Mask

From Howard Terpning, one of the most important artists in America, comes this stunning canvas featuring three Crow warriors preparing for an adventure. The head masks (or face masks) worn by horses were usually made for leading warriors and were considered medicine objects that gave power, protection and strength to the horse and its rider. The masks often had beautiful quill work, beads and feathered adornment and their design was sometimes inspired by a vision. Central to Native American medicine is the belief that each human and every object has a corresponding presence in the spirit world. These spirits can promote health, wisdom and even success in battle.