92

VERSO
Label, Mongerson Gallery, Chicago, Illinois

According to Susan Labry Meyn, author of Henry Farny Paints the Far West, “Plains Indian men aspired to be brave warriors. Traditionally, through daring deeds they earned honor and status in the constant struggle with other Indian nations for horses and hunting grounds – for, like any other group of diverse peoples, Indians competed, quarreled, and warred against each other. The Crow and the Sioux, for example, were bitter enemies.

“Recognition as a warrior was gained by being singularly valiant or skillful in battle, or by capturing or stealing horses from enemies. Horse-stealing allowed warriors to exercise skills of stealth, strategy, and horsemanship, and to acquire wealth and status at the enemy’s expense. A man kept track of his war exploits by illustrating them on a buffalo hide. When a man excelled as a warrior his tribespeople recognized him as a leader who embodied honorable character traits, such as generosity, respectfulness, truthfulness, and courage.”

PROVENANCE
Private collection, Ridgewood, New Jersey

Condition ReportAs viewed through glass. The paper appears to be in good condition. Specks of foxing in the center of sky.

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