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Drawing - "Courting Scene"
Drawing - "Courting Scene"

Drawing - "Courting Scene"

Date1880-1890
DimensionsOverall: 7 1/8 × 11 3/4 in. (18.1 × 29.8 cm)
Object numberT0379
Credit LineGift of Eugene V. and Clare E. Thaw
Photograph by Richard Walker
Label TextAmong the Plains Indians, a man’s success at courting a woman depended not only on his appearance and character, but also on his power and wealth. Women wisely sought men who attained influence and respect. Accomplished skills in horse raiding, breeding, and training increased a man’s prestige and material resources, and young men could quickly change their fortunes in life by distinguishing themselves as proven horsemen. Owning many horses meant that an individual could accumulate more goods and diversify his wealth. A man astride a superior buffalo runner or fast horse as depicted here undoubtedly proved a fine sight.


ProvenanceMalcolm Grimmer, Santa Fe, New Mexico
BibliographyMorning Star Gallery/Parco, ca. 1992, n.p.

Vincent, Gilbert et al. Art of the North American Indians: The Thaw Collection. Cooperstown, New York: Fenimore Art Museum, 2000, p.117.

Fognell, Eva and Alexander Brier Marr, eds. Art of the North American Indians: The Thaw Collection at the Fenimore Art Museum, 2nd ed. Cooperstown, New York: Fenimore Art Museum, 2016, p. 132.
On View
Not on view
Drawing - Courting Scene
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5798 STATE HIGHWAY 80
COOPERSTOWN NY, 13326
607-547-1400

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