Four Macouchi Indians

George Catlin

National Gallery of Art

The image depicts four people shown from head to toe standing side by side. The individuals appear to be standing upright with their arms resting naturally at their sides or holding objects. The people have long dark hair adorned with colorful feathers. Their facial features are distinct with prominent cheekbones and eyes. They are minimally clothed, wearing loincloths with various decorative adornments. The two individuals on the left hold bows, and one also holds an axe. They wear necklaces and some have arm and leg bands. The man second from the left also has a bow and an arrow in his left hand. The background is a simple gradient of earthy tones with a subtle suggestion of grass under their feet. The image is framed by a thick grey-green border.