Featured in this lot are Plains Indian Prayer Smudge Fans with Beaded Flat Handle, circa late 1900s. The prayer fan is typically made of feathers, beads, and other natural materials, and it is often intricately decorated with symbols and designs that hold significant meaning for the Navajo people. The fan is used in a variety of ceremonies and rituals, including weddings, funerals, and other important life events. One of the most common uses of the Navajo prayer fan is in the sweat lodge ceremony. During this ceremony, the fan is used to fan the hot coals and steam, as well as to offer blessings and prayers to the spirits. The fan is also used to direct the smoke and heat toward specific individuals or areas, as it is believed that the heat and smoke have healing properties. Prayer fans are commonly given as a gift to heal the heart. The prayer smudge fans feature feathers, fur, leather fringe with red, blue, cream and pink pony beads, arrow points, metal spots, dyed leather wrapped wood handles, one turquoise cabochon on the black and cherry blossom coloured leather handle fan. Fans are fitted with Velcro strips for connecting the fans for carrying together, each fan has a leather hanging strap on the reverse. Approximate measurement are 10"W x 24"L each.