native indian war paint symbols and their meanings
Native Indian War Paint Symbols and their Meanings
Native Indians have long embraced the practice of face paint to communicate messages via colors and different symbols, especially during wars. You may not want to miss out on learning about different symbols and meanings of Native American Indians in this Buzzle article.
Did You Know?
Beothuk, a Native American Indian tribe, used red color extensively. They used to cover almost everything from their hair and face to clothing and belongings, even in burials. Although the exact reason is unknown, it is speculated that it was for protection from insects.Paint Color Meanings
Red
Red color symbolized war, violence, blood, strength, energy, power, and success in a war, and also symbolized happiness and beauty in face paint. Red-colored paint was made from clay containing iron oxides, roots, berries, beets, etc.
Black
Black color symbolized "living" and was considered to be an aggressive color. It was painted on the face to prepare for war. It signified strength and also that the warrior had proved himself in the battle. It also symbolized victory and homecoming to the camp. It was made from coal or charcoal.
White
White was a color for mourning, but also signified peace and prosperity when used as a face paint. It was made from clay, limestone, ground gypsum, eggshells, and seashells.
Yellow
Yellow was a color of death. It also meant that the warrior was a hero, led a good life, and was willing to fight till the end or death. It also symbolized intelligence. It was made from Bixa plant, which is a bushy shrub or small tree. It was also called annatto. The Native Americans made it into a paste for a bright yellow or orange paint.
Green
Green color symbolized endurance and harmony. It was believed to have great healing power and improve one's vision. It was associated with nature. Green paint was made from moss, algae, flowers, or berries.
Blue
Blue color meant wisdom and confidence. It also denoted the sky, rivers, lakes, and water. Blue-colored paint was made from duck manure, clay, oxides, sunflower seeds, flowers, etc.
Purple
Purple was not used as a war paint. However, it symbolized power, magic, and mystery, and was considered as a sacred color. It was produced from blueberries, coneflowers, and hibiscus.
Indian War Paint Symbols and Their Meanings
Certain symbols were used by the tribes to communicate with other members. The secret messages were also conveyed through symbols. Each symbol had its own significance. They were painted on an individual's clothes, tepees, and other belongings to mark his heroic achievements. Given below are the different symbols with their meanings.
Eye of a Medicine Man Symbol
Lightning Symbol
Arrow Symbol
Four Ages of Man Symbol
Indian Camp Symbol
Hand Symbol
Homecoming Symbol
Star Symbol
Indian War Paint Symbols on Horses
The Native Indians considered their horses as highly valuable assets, and would often protect and honor the war horse by painting certain symbols on its body. They were made for its protection to indicate them of troubles and warnings, or in its affections. They made horse war paint of different colors from the materials that were available to them.
Circle
A circle around the eyes and nostrils of the horse indicated alertness and a keen sense of smell.
Arrow
The arrow pointed in a certain line would mean that it brought victory.
Thunder Stripes
Thunder stripes on the front legs of the horse were meant to please the God of war.
Arrowheads
Arrowheads meant that the horse was swift and agile.
Fire Arrows
Fire arrows in a zigzag fashion pointing downwards meant trouble for the enemy, which in turn became the strength of the warrior.
Right/Left Handprints
The right/left handprints on the horse's chest symbolized that the enemy had been knocked down by the horse.
Hailstones
Hailstones were made symbolizing prayer for hail to fall on the enemies.
Two Crossing Lines
Two crossing lines symbolized that the warrior had escaped the trap.
Hoofprints
Hoofprints were imprinted on the horses to convey the number of horses that were captured in the raids.
Battle Scars and Pat Handprint
Battle scars were always painted in red, and the Pat handprint was drawn on the right hip of the horse. These were the highest honors a horse could get. The Pat handprint was for the horse who brought back his master unharmed from a dangerous battle.
Upside-down Handprint
It was the most prized symbol that a warrior could draw on his horse. It was meant for warriors going on a do-or-die mission.
Handprint in Red
The warrior who died in the war would leave the blooded handprint on the horse's right shoulder for the people to know that he had died.
So, these were a few war paint symbols along with their meanings. These were some of the generalized symbols. Each and every tribe had different symbols and colors, which signified different things. They were not only used during wars, but also for hunting and decorations.