Grizzly Bears Attacking Indians on Horseback

George Catlin, Grizzly Bears Attacking Indians on Horseback, 1832-1833, oil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Joseph Harrison, Jr., 1985.66.418
Copied George Catlin, Grizzly Bears Attacking Indians on Horseback, 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., 1985.66.418
Free to use

Artwork Details

Title
Grizzly Bears Attacking Indians on Horseback
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
Keywords
  • Figure group — male
  • Animal — bear
  • Animal — horse
  • Indian
  • Occupation — hunter
  • State of being — evil — danger
Object Number
1985.66.418
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1985.66.418

Artwork Description

The prairies of the 1830s were a paradise for animal predators as well as enthusiastic huntsmen. Eagles, wolves, mountain lions, and grizzly bears were among the beasts hunting the abundant antelope, elk, and buffalo. George Catlin described many encounters between predators and prey, but could only make quick sketches of these incidents as they unfolded, in hopes of capturing the excitement in more finished studio works. This work was painted in the artist's studio during the winter of 1832-33.