11.5” H x 12” W x 7” D

Bronze, Ed. 50

A warrior often painted his favorite war horse with the same pattern and colors he used on himself. The markings told the story of the owner. A favorite horse became an extension of the warrior. The dexterity and agility demonstrated by the plains Indians was noted during warfare. Many warriors could drop to either side of their horse screening themselves from their enemy while holding on only by their heel. From this precarious position they could wield their weapon of choice with ease and success from under the horse's neck.

Gaining mounts by raiding or during battle was considered honorable. Both means brought the Indian warrior acclaim and stature in the tribe. To the US Cavalry, on the other hand, the steeling of a horse was a serious offense. Horse thieves were dealt with quickly and harshly. An Indian warrior proudly riding his latest acquisition - the favorite "War Pony" of a US Cavalry soldier - during battle with the same added insult to injury.

The colliding of the two cultures during the fight for the frontier created a paradox in the way war horses were viewed and used even when deployed in the same occupation but on different sides. The facts remain the same however, the horse, whether ridden by Indian or White remained an instrument of war.

The "War Pony" featured here was once a US Cavalry mount as noted by the brand on his left front shoulder. The brave is making the most of his new horse as he continues using him in the same venue.