Star Quilts
Lakota Star Quilts -Wichahpi Owinza
The morning star is an important figure in Lakota ceremonies. It represents the direction from which spirits travel to earth and is a link between the living and the dead (in extension), thus symbolizing immortality.
At funerals, a quilt is draped behind the casket, replacing the traditional red-painted buffalo hide.
Today, star quilts are one of the most valued gifts of the Lakota people, often made for "give-away" events such as memorial feasts, celebrations, naming ceremonies, and marriages.
For the newly married couple, the star quilt is considered an essential gift, bestowing upon them recognition and respect.
The morning star is an important figure in Lakota ceremonies. It represents the direction from which spirits travel to earth and is a link between the living and the dead (in extension), thus symbolizing immortality.
At funerals, a quilt is draped behind the casket, replacing the traditional red-painted buffalo hide.
Today, star quilts are one of the most valued gifts of the Lakota people, often made for "give-away" events such as memorial feasts, celebrations, naming ceremonies, and marriages.
For the newly married couple, the star quilt is considered an essential gift, bestowing upon them recognition and respect.