Four Angustura Indians by Catlin, George

Catlin, George · 1854/1869

George Catlin, a lawyer turned artist, dedicated his career to documenting Native American life, and his extensive body of work includes this painting, 'Four Angustura Indians'. Painted between 1854 and 1869, this oil on card, mounted on paperboard, captures four Indigenous figures in what appears to be traditional attire, situated within a natural setting.

Look closely at the figures' garments and accessories, such as the beaded necklaces and spears, which provide insight into their cultural practices. The central tree grounds the composition, emphasizing their connection to the environment.

Interestingly, the 'A 370' visible in the lower left is not a signature but a catalog number. This detail hints at the artwork's later use: it was repurposed to illustrate a travel book published decades after Catlin's initial journeys. His work forms a significant visual archive of Indigenous communities and their way of life in the American West.

How do such later uses change our perception of a historical artwork?

Details

His works are a crucial record of Indigenous cultures.

Shows the musculature and skin tone, offering a sense of physical presence and vitality.

Suggests a hunter or warrior, indicating a life of subsistence and potential conflict.

Transcript

This artist painted Native American life across the American West. His works are a crucial record of Indigenous cultures. Look at the beaded necklaces and traditional garments. Now see this label, 'A 370', in the lower left. It’s not an artist signature, but a catalog number. This painting was used to illustrate a travel book decades later.