The Plains Indians: Artists of the Earth & Sky @MET, Painfully Beautiful

The artwork of the Plains Indians in the 19th C represents the works of a nomadic people whose possessions were valued for their practicality and necessity.  The ingenious and remarkable  collection of clothing and objects on display are awe inspiring for their craftsmanship and imagery.  The robes & dresses made from animals hides are resourceful & of the highest artistry.  The articles on display serve duo purposes.  Items of clothing depict images that record a culture, history & respect for nature.  Utensils & weapons incorporate proud imageries of animals; note an exquisitely carved bowl & a shield bearing a buffalo. Therein lies the remorse conjured by confronting a not so distant past, if not present, of America's indigenous people whose crime was living on coveted land American settlers purloined.  Note the progression of clothing & headdresses, their storytelling become more ornate by incorporating buttons & beads used as barter.  The stunning beauty in this exhibit cannot mask the treachery & massacre inflicted on the Plains Indians.  The shameful irony of an intricate, magnificient horse mask is decorated with the the Amer. flag.  The 4th of July became the holiday observed on resigned Indian reservations by decree and abolishment of native ceremonial customs. The film footage of American "Western" shows popular in Europe in the early 20thC are painful to watch for their exploitation and the disintegration of a distinguished heritage.  Some of the contemporary artworks at the end of show pose acute social commentary.  I was left with feelings of both admiration and shame.