George Catlin, Buffalo Chase over Prairie Bluffs, 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., 1985.66.411
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Artwork Details
- Title
- Buffalo Chase over Prairie Bluffs
- 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
- Figure group — male
- Western
- Animal — horse
- Indian
- Occupation — hunter
- Animal — buffalo
- Object Number
- 1985.66.411
Artwork Description
“In the chase of the buffalo, or other animal, the Indian generally ‘strips’ himself and his horse, by throwing off his shield and quiver, and every part of his dress, which might be an encumbrance to him in running; grasping his bow in his left hand, with five or six arrows drawn from his quiver, and ready for instant use. In his right hand (or attached to the wrist) is a heavy whip, which he uses without mercy, and forces his horse alongside of his game at the swiftest speed.” George Catlin sketched this work on the Upper Missouri in 1832. (Catlin, Letters and Notes, vol. 1, no. 31, 1841; reprint 1973)
