Cigar Store Indian c. 1937

Walter Hochstrasser’s “Cigar Store Indian” is a watercolor painting that depicts a stoic Native American figure, a common sight in front of cigar stores in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The painting is a realistic representation of a wooden carving of a Native American man, complete with a headdress, a spear, and a shield. The figure stands with a serious expression, embodying the stereotypical image of the “noble savage” often portrayed in popular culture during this era. The painting is a testament to the popularity of these figures in American commerce and the artistic skill of Walter Hochstrasser, who was known for his detailed and lifelike representations of everyday objects. The painting offers insight into the cultural and artistic trends of the early 20th century.