Ethnography · 19th century
€ 1 900
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Repaired: closed tears in the margins. Age-related toning. Shows wear and soiling, adding to its patina. Closed tears in margins. Blank verso. Please study image carefully.
Dignity in Diplomacy: Pushmataha, The Choctaw Statesman
The image for sale is an original hand-colored lithograph of Pushmataha, often anglicized as Push-Ma-Ta-Ha, depicted as a distinguished Choctaw warrior. This particular print comes from the "History of the Indian Tribes of North America," which is a significant work that comprises a collection of biographical sketches and colored portraits of leaders from various Native American tribes. Published circa 1838, this work was a collaboration that featured the paintings of Charles Bird King, among others.
Charles Bird King was an American portrait artist who is best remembered for his depictions of significant Native American leaders and dignitaries. He painted various tribal leaders who came to Washington, D.C., to negotiate treaties with the United States government. Many of his original paintings were destroyed in a fire at the Smithsonian; thus, the lithographs produced from his works, such as this one, are especially valued for their historical significance.
Pushmataha was renowned as a warrior, diplomat, and leader among the Choctaw. He rose to prominence within the Choctaw nation not only because of his martial prowess but also due to his skillful negotiations with the American government. His title, "Loak hatak ymmat", translates to "the man who is a killer", reflecting his status as a warrior. Despite his engagement with the U.S. government, Pushmataha remained a staunch advocate for his people, working to secure their rights and territories.
What made Pushmataha exceptional was his diplomatic skill, which earned him respect from both his people and American officials. He was adept at navigating the complexities of U.S. politics and law to benefit the Choctaw. His efforts to secure better treatment for his people in the face of American expansion were noteworthy. He fought alongside the U.S. in their conflicts but always with the Choctaw's sovereignty and welfare in mind. His legacy is remembered for these efforts to protect his nation's interests in a time of great change and challenge for Native American tribes.
During the War of 1812, Pushmataha led Choctaw warriors in support of the United States against the British and their allies. Later, he also fought against the Creek (Muscogee) Nation during the Creek War, which was part of the larger conflict of the War of 1812. The Creek War involved a civil war within the Creek Nation as well as conflict with American forces.
