Berdache Indian of the Ponka Tribe

This artwork is offered as "a limited addition print by Ralph E. Collins, the renowned southwest artist, of a Berdache (or Homosexual) Indian in of the Ponka Tribe"

This artwork is of a Berdache, or homosexual, of the Ponka Tribe. Legend has it some native American Indians believed that the moon appeared to the boys during puberty, and offered the choice of a bow or a woman’s pack strap. If the boy hesitated when reaching for the bow, the moon handed him the pack strap – symbolizing a feminized lifestyle. The Berdache served as matchmakers, healers, and arbiters for their tribe. They also often went into battle to treat the wounded warriors.

This color print, offered in an 8 1/2" x 11" size, is signed and numbered by the artist. Only 156 remain of the 500 prints. The print sells for $29.95 + Shipping & Handling of $3.50.

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 © 2005 Ralph E. Collins, all images, artwork, and content