Running Horse Trading Co Fur And Feather Mandala Shield Appraisal

Running Horse Trading Co. Fur and Feather Mandalla Shield

This is a contemporary Southwestern-style decorative mandalla shield produced by the Running Horse Trading Co. The item features a circular metal hoop wrapped in light-colored leather or suede cord. The central portion is adorned with a large section of natural rabbit fur in a dual-tone palette of tawny brown and cream. Suspended from the center is a decorative leather fringe ensemble featuring a silver-tone metal concho, ceramic or glass multi-colored beads in green, white, and black, and natural bird feathers with orange and brown variegation. Additional long white fur tails are attached to the lower perimeter of the hoop, accented by smaller reddish-brown feather tufts at the connection points. A brown paper hangtag with the 'Running Horse Trading Co.' logo and a silhouette of a running horse is visibly attached at the top. The piece demonstrates modern craft techniques imitating traditional Native American designs. The condition appears to be excellent and unused, with the fur displaying good loft and no visible moth damage or shedding. The beadwork and feathers appear intact, reflecting its origin as a modern souvenir or home decor item rather than a vintage ethnographic artifact.