Sioux Horse Effigy Dance Stick

This masterpiece of Sioux sculpture in the Heritage Center is one of only two known sculptures of its kind in the world. The 3-foot sculpture carved out of wood is enhanced by a real horsehair mane and tail, and leather reins and bridle. The horse is riddled with holes signifying bullet wounds, and red paint to signify blood seeping from its wounds. Blood also runs from the mouth in the form of red horsehair. Its ears are backward slanting showing fear and pain. It's elongated body and forward leaping motion suggest a leap from life to death. A Sioux warrior probably carved this piece around 1875 to honor his faithful horse that had died in battle.