HAIL STORM  SOLD  OUT

Bronze Edition of 11

38"H x  35"W x 13"D

 

The horse was introduced during the invasion of the Spaniards, and with it came a thorough understanding of horsemanship.

The horses, like their riders, were protected by armor fashioned of metal and leather. The years of oppression and attacks by the Spanish army, provided the Plains Apache bands the opportunity to see and study horse armor. This knowledge quickly spread throughout the Plains. Native Americans did not possess the Spanish armor materials, they improvised with local materials and traditional crafting, creating their own versions of what they saw. The “horse mask” was one of many Native interpretations of Spanish armory. Usually, the horse mask was embellished with representational designs. 

The mask on this horse represents the hail storm. The hail is represented by circular brass buttons. The trailing fringes of human locks and horse hair are intended as symbols of the rain which accompanies thunderstorms. This mask represents the entire storm. The approach of a rider and masked horse was impressive and intimidating.