Artwork preview

Cigar Store Indian

Walter Hochstrasser

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts a Native American figure standing in a poised stance. The subject is adorned with a headdress featuring multiple feathers that emphasize the vertical aspect of the sculpture. The figure appears to be holding a conch shell in one hand, while the other hand is raised to the forehead. This gesture suggests a sense of looking into the distance. The sculpture is painted with a color palette that includes earth tones such as browns and beiges for the skin and clothing, with accents of red and blue adding contrast. The material appears to be some form of painted wood or ceramic, giving the sculpture a smooth and slightly glossy finish. The figure's attire includes detailed clothing with fringed garments and various ornaments. A vibrant cape or drape, colored in contrasting blue and red, further adds to the visual intricacy of the sculpture.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1938
Medium
watercolor, colored pencil, graphite, and heightening on paperboard
Dimensions
2802 × 4233 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original