Numakiki (Mandan) Robe, ca. 1875-1890. South Dakota. Buffalo hide, paint. 73" x 97". Magnificent painted buffalo robes are considered a quintessential Plains Indian art form, and those bearing geometric designs were painted by women. Numakiki and other Plains Indian women are highly regarded as masters of geometric art. Some robes bearing geometric designs were worn by women and others by men. The elegant pattern painted on this robe is composed of concentric circles of radiating and stylized feath- ers. Worn by a man, it symbolizes a eagle-feather headdress and a warrior’s prowess and status. 12/2158
