Game of the Arrow - Mandan by Catlin, George

Catlin, George · 1861/1869

George Catlin, a lawyer-turned-painter, extensively documented Native American life, and this piece, "Game of the Arrow - Mandan," from 1861/1869, is an oil on card mounted on paperboard.

Here, Mandan men engage in a traditional stick-and-ball game, a communal activity highlighting their peaceful culture. Look closely at the varied stances and expressions of the men, captured with a keen eye for detail.

Catlin made five journeys across the American West in the 1830s, creating portraits and scenes of Plains Indian life. This painting reflects a later phase of his career, where he continued his dedication to documenting indigenous cultures.

His commitment to sketching from life aimed to ensure accuracy and authenticity, contributing to the descriptive quality of his work. What do you notice most about their activity?

Details

He documented Plains Indian life, including games like this one.

These men play a traditional Mandan stick-and-ball game.

Suggests the practical aspects of life and resources for the Mandan people.

Transcript

This painter crossed the American West five times in the 1830s. He documented Plains Indian life, including games like this one. These men play a traditional Mandan stick-and-ball game. His goal was to show their peaceful, recreational culture. He sketched directly from life to ensure authenticity. This work is from a later phase of his career, around 1865.