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In this painting, Robert Griffing illustrates how the Woodland
Indians used "painted trees" to leave messages for friends,
family and foe alike. This was accomplished by peeling the bark
and painting with red ochre and charcoal, universally understood
symbols.
The technique was used to boast about the success of a hunt or
war party, spread the recent news, tell stories, give warning or
convey a message to those who followed the Indian paths. The paintings
were very durable and could remain visible for as long as fifty
years.
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