Cigar Store Indian c. 1939

Emil Hagen's "Cigar Store Indian" from c. 1939 is a detailed watercolor depiction of a traditional wooden figure that once stood outside American cigar stores. The figure is rendered in a realistic style, with a focus on the intricate details of the Indian's elaborate headdress, beaded necklace, and fringed clothing. Hagen's watercolor captures the vibrant colors and textures of the original carved figure, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. The artwork serves as a reminder of the important role these figures played in American commercial culture during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.