3. Exploration by Land 1909

Francis Davis Millet’s “Exploration by Land” depicts an encounter between Native Americans and European settlers. Dominant is the figure of the Native American archer, his bow drawn, a symbol of readiness and defense, standing in contrast to the settlers, one bearing a long musket. Consider the image of the archer: this figure echoes in countless images throughout time, from classical depictions of Apollo to more contemporary representations of the noble savage. The bow is a symbol of power, skill, and primal connection to the land. Yet, the evolution of this symbol is complex. In some contexts, the archer represents the defense of territory or tradition; in others, the threat of the unknown. The collective memory of the ‘New World’ and its exploration carries a profound weight. The artist draws upon deep-seated cultural narratives, engaging viewers on a subconscious level with themes of conquest, clash, and cultural transformation. The image of the archer, charged with both power and vulnerability, resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings, inviting us to reflect on the cyclical progression of history.