Buffalo Chase over Prairie Bluffs

George Catlin, Buffalo Chase over Prairie Bluffs, 1832-1833, oil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Joseph Harrison, Jr., 1985.66.411
Copied 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
Free to use

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
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/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)