IDEOGRAPHS.
The number of instances in this paper in which the picture has been expressive of an idea, and not a mere portraiture of an object, and has amounted sometimes to a graphic representation of an abstract idea, is so great as to render cross-references superfluous. As examples, attention may be invited to Figure 72, page [166], for the idea of “voice,” Figure 179, page [241], for that of “war,” and the Corbusier winter counts for the year 1876-’77—No. I, page [146], for that of “support.” In addition to them, however, for convenience of grouping under this special heading, the following illustrations (some of which would as properly appear under the head of Conventionalizing) are presented.
ABSTRACT IDEAS.
Figure 140 is taken from the winter count of Battiste Good, and is drawn to represent the sign for pipe, which it is intended to signify. The sign is made by placing the right hand near the upper portion of the breast, the left farther forward, and both held so that the index and thumb approximate a circle, as if holding a pipe-stem. The remaining fingers are closed.
Fig. 140.—Sign for pipe. Dakota.
The point of interest in this character is that instead of drawing a pipe the artist drew a human figure making the sign for pipe, showing the intimate connection between gesture-signs and pictographs. The pipe, in this instance, was the symbol of peace.
Figure 141, taken from the winter count of Battiste Good for the year 1703-’04, signifies plenty of buffalo meat.
