From Edward Curtis’ Field Notes:

“Here is depicted a group of Sioux warriors as they appeared in the days of intertribal warfare, carefully making their way down a hillside in the vicinity of the enemy’s camp. Many hold in their hands, instead of weapons, mere sticks adorned with eagle-feathers or scalps – the so-called coup-sticks – desiring to win honor by striking a harmless blow therewith as well as to inflict injury with arrow and bullet.” – Edward S. Curtis

The North American Indian, Volume 03, The Teton Sioux, 1908. Portfolio plate no. 77.