Respecting Non-Western Sacred Objects: An A:shiwi Ahayu:da (Zuni war god), the Museum of the American Indian–Heye Foundation, and the Museum of Modern Art

From the Smithsonian's NMAI blog:
Respecting Non-Western Sacred Objects: An A:shiwi Ahayu:da (Zuni war god), the Museum of the American Indian–Heye Foundation, and the Museum of Modern Art
http://blog.nmai.si.edu/main/2013/04/respecting-non-western-sacred-objects.html


This piece discusses Native American artifacts and how they should be respected as belonging to their rightful owner. However, these works of art and crafts have become highly valued in the world of fine art, and currently there are Native American artifacts for sale or auction around the world. Many of these were taken without permission and which hold special significance to the people whom they were taken from. Furthermore, this piece addresses some of the misconceptions Westerners hold about Native American art, and how portraying these artifacts incorrectly is disrespectful and can harm the traditions of these cultures.