The image shows a forest scene from a slightly elevated viewpoint. The horizon is low in the composition, blocked by tall trees and dense foliage. To the left, a dark body of water can be seen. Fine brushstrokes capture intricate details of the trees and landscape with precision. The color palette is dark, with deep blues and greens, and a warm glow coming from a light source among the trees to the right. Figures are gathered around the light source, creating a focal point. The scene conveys a serene and mysterious forest setting, possibly at night or during twilight.
Gallery mode Full size at the museum

Window mode follows your eyes with your camera, in this browser only: no picture or position leaves your device.

Bivouac of a Sioux War Party

George Catlin (American, 1796 - 1872)

1861/1869

Medium
oil on card mounted on paperboard
Classification
Painting
Dimensions
overall: 47.2 x 62.3 cm (18 9/16 x 24 1/2 in.)
Culture
American
Museum
National Gallery of Art, CAB
Credit line
Paul Mellon Collection
Rights
Public domain (NGA Open Access, CC0), as the museum states it.
Who can see it
Teens profiles and older: its subject is for older viewers (war, death, the Passion, drink or the like). How works are placed

View at the National Gallery of Art