Who painted Portfolio VIII, Plate 271: A War Chief - Nez Percé?

Portfolio VIII, Plate 271: A War Chief - Nez Percé was painted by Edward S. Curtis in 1905.

Where can I see Portfolio VIII, Plate 271: A War Chief - Nez Percé?

Portfolio VIII, Plate 271: A War Chief - Nez Percé is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artwork

Portfolio VIII, Plate 271: A War Chief - Nez Percé

Edward S. Curtis , 1905

Portfolio VIII, Plate 271: A War Chief - Nez Percé is a work on paper by Edward S. Curtis. It dates from 1905 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1995.203.28.16
Credit line: Presented by Mrs. James H. Hoyt, Elton Hoyt, II, and Mrs. Amasa Stone Mather in memory of James H. Hoyt

About this work

Overview

Portfolio VIII, Plate 271: A War Chief - Nez Percé is a photograph by Edward S. Curtis, created in 1905, and is part of a larger portfolio. It is currently held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts a Nez Percé War Chief on horseback, dressed in a feathered headdress and fringed coat, holding a rifle. The calm atmosphere of the scene contrasts with the subject's warrior attire, suggesting a nuanced representation of leadership and cultural identity.

Technique & Style

The photograph employs chiaroscuro, a technique using strong contrasts between light and dark, to create a sense of depth and dimensionality. The background is blurred, focusing attention on the subject and his horse.