A Stone Warrior, His Wife, and a Boy by Catlin, George

Catlin, George · 1855/1869

This painting, "A Stone Warrior, His Wife, and a Boy" by George Catlin, isn't just a portrait, but a historical document with hidden marks that tell its story. Created between 1855 and 1869, this oil on card, mounted on paperboard, is housed in a museum dedicated to preserving American history.

Look closely at the upper margins of the painting. You'll spot the artist's initials and a catalog number, 'A 278', on the left. On the right, the number '102' is visible. These subtle additions are more than just annotations; they are keys to understanding the painting's journey and provenance.

George Catlin, a lawyer turned painter, spent the 1830s traveling the American frontier. He dedicated his life to documenting Native American cultures through art and writing. His works, including this one, served as ethnographic records, capturing a rapidly changing world and contributing to American folk art traditions.

These seemingly small details, the initials and numbers, offer a unique connection to the painting's past. What other stories do you think these hidden marks could tell?

Details

Now, turn to the upper left corner of the painting.

Transcript

This painter traveled the American frontier in the 1830s. He documented Native American life through art and writing. Look closely at the man's hand, he is holding something small. Now, turn to the upper left corner of the painting. You will find the artist's initials and a number. In the top right, another number, '102', offers a clue. These marks suggest its journey through collections and time.