American Indian Design and Decoration (Dover Pictorial Archive)

I picked up this book when I was looking for a reliable source for Native American tattoos. I had an interest in using a tattoo for a fictional character I write about and this book gave me much more than I bargained for. There were many interesting tidbits about the history of designs, not just tattoos, but also a wide variety of artwork such as pottery design, celebratory decorations, and ceremonial artwork. I was pleasantly surprised to be drawn into this book, and I ended up reading the entire book instead of skimming through for only the info I needed. In the end, this book was engaging and fun, and it gave me an entirely different perspective on Native American artwork. I am so glad I picked this up not only for the enjoyable read, but because it gave me a good reason to understand why my idea was not appropriate. There are customs and beliefs associated with many symbols that I did not fully understand, so this book helped me to create a much more accurate portrayal of the Native American design I used in my fiction work.Thank you Le Roy Appleton. I loved this book and it is easy to see how much love and work you put into creating it.If you are a reader interested in true Native American culture, this is a great resource for you.

I am a Dover Publications addict! Very often I'll go to my local used books store and browse for any and all Dover books. I've been hesitant about ordering them online because some of them have less illustrations than others. However this book is (IMO) a PERFECT blend between illustrations and text. So much information!Book itself was received quickly, well packaged, and in great condition. Definitely a new favorite! ^_^

I'm not a craftsman or artist. I bought this just to view the designs. The book has many, and even more pages filled with legends and stories. An interesting book.

The book covers a a large number of tribal patterns and designs. For a crafter or artist it is a good overall idea book

I'm a ceramic artist always looking for southwestern inspiration. This book is terrific! Wonderful sourcebook of patterns and "rock art" type drawings. I own several books on the topic, and this is by far the best. If I had been aware of it, and purchased it earlier, I would not have bought many of the other titles I own.

My reason for purchasing this book is to duplicate authentic Native American designs on my artwork. This book is excellent for that purpose, and when writing a sales brochure this book gives me the correct information so those wanting to buy my decorated skulls and the like, will know the true meaning of each symbol and design.

This is a great reference book for my tattoo business. Those that desire real designs can be found in this book and that is why I gave it a four star.

I couldn't remember this title , but a cousin owned this and I wanted a copy too. Glad I found it on Amazon. It is pretty thorough and has quite a few different tribes and regions to be inspired by. Very handy for gourd art reference.

Lovely book

Great reference book

be aware half this book is just writing history poems etc that's ok if you want itbut its meant to be a pictorial yes its got 700 illustrations half the size they wouldbe without all the writing far different in format to the other dover books ive purchasedloads of writing so you might think that's great but no because many illustrations are so small youllneed an eye glass

Cet ouvrage rassemble les graphismes amérindiens traditionnels par région et par culture de tout le continent américain. Il permet d'avoir une vision d'ensemble de la diversité et de l'originalité artistique et surtout graphique des Amérindiens. Les reproductions sont toutes en noir et blanc.

ok book . a little basic