Original Painting of an Indian in a Failed Hunting Event [SOLD]

This painting is certainly of the early 20^th century time and was most likely painted by one of the four major painters from San Ildefonso Pueblo—Julian Martinez, Romando Vigil, Richard Martinez or Abel Sanchez.  The feather headdress is a typical item seen in San Ildefonso paintings and the yellow paint is identical to the yellow used by Julian Martinez in the painting of an Eagle Dancer figure.  The painting is not signed but perhaps a signature was cut off so the image would fit a certain frame.

The painting style is beautifully executed.  It is interesting that the artist chose to show a damaged bow string which negated the hunt the young warrior was pursuing.  Humor is not often witnessed in these early pueblo paintings. 

Condition: appears to be in original condition although it has not been examined out of the frame.

Provenance: from the collection of a Santa Fe resident

Recommended Reading:  Modern by Tradition: American Indian Painting in the Studio Style by Bruce Bernstein, et al