Paul Tosa Depiction of a Buffalo Dance at Jemez Pueblo [SOLD]

This exceptional painting was created by a talented student artist Paul Tosa from Jemez Day School, probably during the 1960s. The painting showcases an impressive level of insight and skill in depicting the Buffalo Dance, which no doubt left a remarkable impression on the 13-year-old. The line work and handling of paint are exceptional for a student of this age. The painting is signed P. Tosa in the bottom right.

Notably, the near-identical depiction of the two Buffalo Dancers side by side reflects a pictorial convention developed by early Pueblo easel painters like Julian Martinez and Awa Tsireh. This technique captures the dancers' strive for complete unison in their ceremonies. The student's awareness of this method is evident, demonstrating a deep understanding of traditional Pueblo artistry.

The meticulous attention to detail extends to the background, featuring a series of unified ochre directional marks that imbue the overall image with a sense of vibration, excitement, and movement.

On the back of the painting, the following information is provided: "Buffalo Dance" Paul Tosa Age 13 gr 7 Jemez Day School Box 67 Jemez Pueblo, New Mexico.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Paul Tosa Depiction of a Buffalo Dance at Jemez Pueblo is from the collection of a client from California. We have been told that there is a Paul Tosa, aged about 72, now living at Jemez Pueblo. Perhaps he was the painter.

Recommended Reading: 

- Southwest Indian Painting: A Changing Art by Clara Lee Tanner

- American Indian Painting of the Southwest and Plains Areas by Dorothy Dunn

TAGS:  Jemez Pueblo, Walatowa, Native American Paintings