- The designs of Native American shields were unique to different tribes. They were not merely used for protection in battles, but were more important as tokens that represented the internal power of the individual warrior. Usually the shield was buried with a Native American when he died.
- A Native American shield is commonly known as a "medicine shield" because it is a symbol of spiritual health. After a Native American's Vision Quest, his tribe's Medicine Man would interpret what the image should be on his shield, usually an animal. This shield could now provide some physical protection, but even more spiritual protection.
- Native American shields are usually circular, as opposed to the long rectangular shape of modern shields (e.g., riot gear). On the surface of the shield, which is made out of animal hide, there is usually a simple drawing of the spirit animal that belonged to the owner of the shield. Along the bottom edge of the shield, long bird feathers hung downward. These feathers attracted "good medicine" to the spirit while the surface of the shield deflected "bad medicine."
- Native American medicine shields were a vital part of the tribe's culture. The shield was an object to be honored and was usually hung in a place of prominence in a Native American family's home. If ever there was a war, the shield would be kept close to the warrior. As shields continue to be made today, they are usually done so in reverence to familial heritage. They still hold great spiritual value to Native Americans.
- Depending on the area, medicine shields appeared differently. But the design was typically circular. The loop was usually made of wood, and sometimes the entire shield was made of wood. Oftentimes, animal skin or hide was stretched around the wooden loop. Long feathers and other dangling objects hung at the bottom of the shield below an image of a meaningful spiritual symbol.
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