Artwork

Portfolio VI, Plate 219: Little Wolf

Portfolio VI, Plate 219: Little Wolf, by Edward S. Curtis, 1905
Portfolio VI, Plate 219: Little Wolf, by Edward S. Curtis, 1905

Portfolio VI, Plate 219: Little Wolf 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

Overview

Portfolio VI, Plate 219: Little Wolf is a black-and-white photographic portrait by Edward S. Curtis, dated to 1905. The work is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts an individual identified as Little Wolf, characterized by long, braided hair secured at the back and a distinctive fur-lined coat with fringed edges. The subject's expression and the artist's composition convey a sense of dignity and cultural presence.

Technique & Style

Curtis employed soft, one-sided lighting, casting a shadow across half of the subject's face. This technique, combined with the emphasis on textures such as braided hair and fur, highlights the artist's attention to detail and his ability to evoke a sense of depth and realism.

History & Provenance

Created in 1905, the photograph is now held in the permanent collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art, indicating its recognized historical and artistic value.

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.