← Catlin, George

This is a painting of Native Americans participating in a ceremonial gathering. The painting depicts a group of people gathered outdoors on a grassy field, encircled by hills under a sky with scattered clouds. At the forefront stands a figure adorned in traditional attire, including a feathered headdress and garments with detailed patterning. The figure appears to be holding ceremonial objects and addressing or leading the assembly. Around this central figure, the people are positioned in various postures, seemingly listening or observing attentively. The scene is framed within an oval border, highlighting the central action while subtly incorporating a background structure that resembles an earthen or wooden lodge. The atmosphere is serene, with muted colors suggesting a peaceful observance. This is in the style of George Catlin, known for his portraits of Native American life.

A Mandan Medicine Man

Catlin, George · American

1861/1869

Medium
oil on card mounted on paperboard
Classification
Painting
Period
1851 to 1875
Image size
6349 × 4921px

Description

This is a painting of Native Americans participating in a ceremonial gathering. The painting depicts a group of people gathered outdoors on a grassy field, encircled by hills under a sky with scattered clouds. At the forefront stands a figure adorned in traditional attire, including a feathered headdress and garments with detailed patterning. The figure appears to be holding ceremonial objects and addressing or leading the assembly. Around this central figure, the people are positioned in various postures, seemingly listening or observing attentively. The scene is framed within an oval border, highlighting the central action while subtly incorporating a background structure that resembles an earthen or wooden lodge. The atmosphere is serene, with muted colors suggesting a peaceful observance. This is in the style of George Catlin, known for his portraits of Native American life.

Rights & Source

Open access image from the National Gallery of Art, released under its open access program. Metadata via the NGA Open Data Program (CC0).

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