Pehriska-Ruhpa, Dog Dance of the Hidatsa (sect of the Minataree), from Travels in the Interior of North America, 1839-43
Aquatint engraving
Ackermann & Co., London
Greenslade Special Collections and Archives
Olin and Chalmers Libraries
Kenyon College

This famous image shows a member of the Hidatsa dog society in mid-step. The Hidatsa dogs were "contraries" and did everything backward. If a warrior was meant to attack in battle, he would flee instead. This philosophy is best understood when considering the idea that animals are more afraid of you, than you are of them . His dress is impressive and highly colorful. The headdress is made of magpie tail feathers along with wild turkey and a single eagle plume. Hanging from these are died horse hairs that dangle lightly. The rattle in his right hand is made of small hooves or dewclaws attached to an elaborately beaded stick of wood, an emblem of rank within their society.