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.