Cigar Store Indian c. 1936

"Cigar Store Indian" is a watercolor painting created by Bisby Finley, c. 1936. It depicts a brightly colored, wooden carving of a Native American woman in traditional attire. These figures were often used as storefront signs in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and Finley's painting captures the style of these iconic figures. While the figures are now seen as potentially offensive due to their stereotypical representation, Finley's work serves as a record of a historical and cultural phenomenon. The watercolor medium and Finley's careful detailing lend a sense of realism to the work, highlighting the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating these figures.