Some Protective Designs of the Dakota

"Some Protective Designs of the Dakota" by Clark Wissler is a exploration of the Dakota people's artistic and spiritual traditions through their protective designs. The heart of this anthropological paper unearths the meaning behind decorative artifacts, especially shields and clothing, revealing how these objects served as more than just decoration. Symbolic of the Dakota's worldview, these designs, originating from powerful dreams and visions, protect and connect the wearer to nature. The book presents different motifs which decorate shields, symbolizing nature's elements like thunder and whirlwind, which invoke special protective powers and connect them to the larger spirtual world. Wissler's research, rooted in direct accounts from the Dakota people, illuminates how these designs are integral to their identity, providing a window into their spiritual beliefs and the profound relationship between their art and the supernatural world.