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Artwork

Portfolio I, Plate 35: Hastobíga-Navaho Medicine-Man

Edward S. Curtis , 1904

Portfolio I, Plate 35: Hastobíga-Navaho Medicine-Man, by Edward S. Curtis, 1904
Portfolio I, Plate 35: Hastobíga-Navaho Medicine-Man, by Edward S. Curtis, 1904

Portfolio I, Plate 35: Hastobíga-Navaho Medicine-Man is a work on paper by Edward S. Curtis. It dates from 1904 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The man's attire and the style of the image suggest a traditional or cultural setting, possibly from the early 20th century.

This image depicts a man with a solemn expression, his face partially shaded. He wears a headband wrapped around his forehead, and a dark robe with a white striped garment underneath. His hands are crossed in front of him, with his right hand resting on his left. The background is a dark, muted color.

The man's attire and the style of the image suggest a traditional or cultural setting, possibly from the early 20th century. The use of shadows and lighting adds depth to the portrait, drawing attention to the subject's features.

For more information on the artist behind this work, look up Edward S. Curtis (American, 1868–1952).

Overview

Portfolio I, Plate 35: Hastobíga-Navaho Medicine-Man is a photographic work by Edward S. Curtis, created in 1904. It is part of a larger portfolio and is currently held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The image portrays a Navaho medicine man with a solemn expression, dressed in traditional attire including a headband and layered robes. His crossed hands and partially shaded face convey a sense of contemplation or ritual.

Technique & Style

The photograph employs chiaroscuro, using shadows and lighting to create depth and emphasize the subject's features. The dark, muted background further focuses attention on the medicine man, suggesting a formal or ceremonial context.

Artist & collection

Artist

Edward S. Curtis

Edward S. Curtis (1868–1952) was an American artist.

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.