Post 4 (National Museum of the American Indian) - Oliveira

Hello everyone.

Today we visited the National Museum of the American Indian. We were guided by a lovely old lady who is one of St. John`s professors. We walked a little to train D subway station and got off at the last stop. Although the museum isn't very big, it is rich in displays. We visited two rooms: One with paintings and another one with clothes items and other domestic utensils. I was impressed by the fist scene - a buffalo skin. In the past, the buffalo was used for food and warm clothing. These animals were very important to the Indians. Unfortunately, this specie is endangered. 

The Indians art work is indescribable! It seems that they had very keen eyes. It is obvious in every single detail, specially on the items of clothing. The color combination, the kinds of fabrics, the matching items. Everything was perfectly thought. Not to mention the safety and originality. It seemed that every tribe had its unique technique and personal touch. The pottery work was rich too. They used different kinds of stones for different purposes. The kitchen utensils, the weapons, the garments for decorations, etc. 

We had a lot to read. The museum is concerned with every single piece of information. The visitor is able to go back in time and imagine how they lived. There were a lot different Indians Tribes, not only in the USA, but all over the America. We were overwhelmed when we saw the first Indian Tribes in Brazil. The Museum has some information on some tribes in Brazil - neat!