War Shirt
1830–40
Deer hide, ermine tails, glass pony beads, hair, porcupine quills, and trade cloth
101.6 × 50.8 cm (40 × 20 in)
SEE IT IN PERSON
Not currently on view
In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026
Discussion
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
Equipped with powerful symbols and emblems, war shirts expressed the wearer's authority and status, and also served as his protective spiritual armor in battle.
Be the first to share your thoughts.
Sign in to join the discussion.
More like this
Blackfeet — Leggings
Crow Tribe — Quiver
Cheyenne — Pipe Bag
Arapaho — Pipe Bag
Lakota — Pipe Bag![Dance Apron [Photographed with Dance Skirt]](https://www.artic.edu/iiif/2/52350f74-33ca-7749-f760-e79da40ac4d6/full/500,/0/default.jpg)
Yurok — Dance Apron [Photographed with Dance Skirt]Yurok — Dance Skirt (photographed with Apron)
Mahdist peoples — Tunic (Jibbeh)
Santee Dakota — Pair of Moccasins
Tlingit — Dance Blanket with Diving Whale and Raven Motifs
Paracas — Tunic
Oceti Sakowin — Pair of Child's Mocassins