Quirts, or horse whips, are undoubtedly among the most important items in Plains warrior culture. A quirt was the instrument by which men counted coup, among other things. As such, they feature prominently in early warrior iconography for denoting military prowess and bravery. This connection encouraged several warriors to carefully construct and decorate their respective quirts.

As of this writing, I know of only two fully tacked antler quirts in private collections. The example shown here still has its original lash and wrist strap. Merchants imported these furniture tacks onto the frontier, not immediately realizing their appeal to Plains Indians. The antler on this quirt was painstakingly shaped into a hexagonal form so that it could accommodate rows of tacks. The artist spared no expense in carefully braiding is accompanying lash as well.

Attributing an exact tribe for this exceptional quirt is challenging. That this quirt first emerged out of an old collection in Germany provides little help, although it certainly adds to the quirt’s mystique. That said, the inclusion of the quirts original Stroud floral beaded strap might indicate that it originated from the Northern Plains.

9.75" long (quirt) and 20" long (lash); accompanied by a custom stand.

Private collection, GERMANY; to Marty Ingham, MT; to Douglas Deihl, MA.

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