The painting depicts a scene from an elevated point of view, showing a gathering of people. The horizon is visible above the midway point of the image, with teepees, small buildings, and trees in the background. A group of individuals wearing red headdresses is gathered in a circular pattern, engaging in a dance or ritual. A horseback rider is present, possibly leading the event. In the distance, figures are near a small cabin-like structure, with others gathered on the roof. The brushstrokes are precise, capturing the shapes and details of the scene. The color palette consists of earthy…
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War Dance of the Saukies

George Catlin (American, 1796 - 1872)

1861/1869

Medium
oil on card mounted on paperboard
Classification
Painting
Dimensions
overall: 46 x 60.9 cm (18 1/8 x 24 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

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