A Foot War Party in Council - Mandan 1861 - 1869

"A Foot War Party in Council - Mandan" is an 1861-1869 watercolor painting by George Catlin, renowned for his depictions of Native American life. The painting depicts a Mandan war party council, where warriors gather in a circle around a small fire, possibly to plan a strategy or discuss their next move. This scene is framed in an oval, suggesting a snapshot of a specific moment in time, and is characteristic of Catlin’s detailed and realistic style, often portraying Native American culture with a sense of respect and authenticity. This artwork provides a valuable glimpse into the customs and traditions of the Mandan people, offering a window into their social structure and warfare practices.