Artwork

Portfolio IV, Plate 141: Apsaroke Medicine Tipi

Portfolio IV, Plate 141: Apsaroke Medicine Tipi, by Edward S. Curtis, 1905
Portfolio IV, Plate 141: Apsaroke Medicine Tipi, by Edward S. Curtis, 1905

Portfolio IV, Plate 141: Apsaroke Medicine Tipi is a work on paper by Edward S. Curtis. It dates from 1905 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The title says this is an "Apsaroke Medicine Tipi," which means the tent likely has special meaning.

This photo shows a tall, cone-shaped tent made of poles and cloth. Two people stand outside it—one is an adult wearing a hat and long coat, the other a child. The tent has a crescent moon painted on it. Trees and bushes surround the scene, and the whole image is in brown tones.

The title says this is an "Apsaroke Medicine Tipi," which means the tent likely has special meaning. The photo was taken in 1905 by someone who wanted to document how people lived at the time.

If you’re curious about how this photo was made, look up chiaroscuro.

Overview

Portfolio IV, Plate 141: Apsaroke Medicine Tipi is a photograph by Edward S. Curtis, created in 1905. It is part of a collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts a cone-shaped tent with a crescent moon painted on it, accompanied by an adult and child. The title suggests the tent holds spiritual significance, indicating the cultural and ritual practices of the Apsaroke people.

Technique & Style

The photograph is characterized by its use of chiaroscuro, evident in its brown tones. The play of light and shadow adds depth to the scene, capturing the surroundings of trees and bushes.

Artist & collection

Artist

Edward S. Curtis

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

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.