Initiate Ceremony (Bow and Arrow Dance)
Artist
Awa Tsireh
(Native American, 1898–1955)
Dateby 1935
Mediumblack ink and gouache over graphite on green laid paper
Dimensions30.3 x 47.6 cm (11 15/16 x 18 3/4 in.)
ClassificationsWatercolors
MarkingsWatermark: MICHALLET/FRANCE
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1935.87
DescriptionDepicts a Hopi scene - Antelope priests on the right.Label TextAwa Tsireh was a particularly accomplished, self-taught artist who usually painted scenes from the life of his people at San Ildefonso pueblo in a very precise, detailed style. His subject in this watercolor is the annual initiation ceremony through which young people passed in order to achieve full membership in their community. The wraparound kilts worn by the male dancers are customary ceremonial wear.ProvenanceMiss Emily M. Haynes, Worcester, MA
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