Buffalo Chase, Bull Protecting a Cow and Calf

George Catlin, Buffalo Chase, Bull Protecting a Cow and Calf, 1832-1833, oil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Joseph Harrison, Jr., 1985.66.412
Copied George Catlin, Buffalo Chase, Bull Protecting a Cow and Calf, 1832-1833, oil on canvas, 24 x 29 in. (60.9 x 73.7 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Joseph Harrison, Jr., 1985.66.412
Free to use

Artwork Details

Title
Buffalo Chase, Bull Protecting a Cow and Calf
Artist
Date
1832-1833
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
24 x 29 in. (60.9 x 73.7 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Joseph Harrison, Jr.
Mediums
Mediums Description
oil on canvas
Classifications
Subjects
  • Animal — buffalo
  • Occupation — hunter
  • Indian
  • Animal — horse
  • Western
  • Figure group — male
Object Number
1985.66.412
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1985.66.412

Artwork Description

“During the season of the year whilst the calves are young, the male seems to stroll about by the side of the dam, as if for the purpose of protecting the young, at which time it is exceedingly hazardous to attack them, as they are sure to turn upon their pursuers, who have often to fly to each others assistance.” George Catlin sketched this scene on the Upper Missouri in 1832. (Catlin, Letters and Notes, vol. 1, no. 31, 1841; reprint 1973)