According to Griffing biographer George Irvin, “The Native Americans of the Eastern Woodlands held in the highest esteem the spoken word by which they communicated traditions and held their culture together. Within their society, to become a skilled orator was considered a high achievement, and the very best speakers rose to prominence within the tribe. Many became Sachems, or Chiefs, responsible for the political relations of the nation. Whether addressing a grand council of many hundreds or conveying a message to only a few, the speaker was given the complete respect and attention of everyone present. Within the Lenape or Delaware nation, the speaker would often begin with the phrase, ‘N’petalogálgun,’ meaning, ‘I have something to say.’”


PROVENANCE
Coeur d’Alene Art Auction, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, 1998
Private collection, Laguna Beach, California

LITERATURE
George Irvin, The Art of Robert Griffing: His Journey Into the Eastern Frontier, East/West Visions, 2000, pp. 54-55, illustrated

Additional Resources

• Robert Griffing’s Past Results
• View Condition Report

Condition ReportSurface is in excellent condition. No signs of restoration.

Important Notice: Statements of condition are provided as a service to potential bidders; such statements are educated opinions and should not be regarded as facts. The Coeur d’Alene Art Auction has no responsibility for any errors or omissions.