Mew-Hew-She-Kaw, The White Cloud, Chief of the Ioways
Artist
George Catlin
(American, 1796 - 1872)
Date1816-1872
MediumOil on canvas
Dimensions28 x 22 3/4 in.
ClassificationsOil Painting
Credit LinePrivate Collection
Terms
Object number1995.05T
DescriptionThis dignified portrait is of the Native American chief of the Ioway Tribe. This tribe was the first to inhabit the state of Iowa and parts of nearby states. Dressed in full tribal fanfare, Catlin spares no detail in depicting a man of distinction and wisdom. "Mew-Hew-She-Kaw" became chief at an early age after killing several enemy Sioux to avenge his father's death. He was later imprisoned in St. Louis, Missouri for killing a French trader. After escaping and leading a raid against the Osage, he decided that his father's death was finally avenged, so he laid down his arms.On View
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