De Tonty Suing for Peace in the Iroquois Village. January 2, 1680 1847 - 1848

George Catlin painted this scene depicting De Tonty suing for peace in the Iroquois village with oil on canvas. Notice the raised arms and open palms—gestures central to the act of supplication. Throughout history, from ancient Roman orators to Renaissance paintings of the Madonna, upturned hands have signified surrender, truth, and a plea for mercy. The Iroquois, as seen here, extend their arms as they seek peace. The symbolism of the open hand transcends cultures; it's a primal expression deeply embedded in our collective unconscious. Think of a child reaching for a parent, or a defendant in court swearing an oath. This gesture, though simple, is laden with humanity’s most profound desires: to be heard, understood, and accepted. Observe how this timeless gesture speaks to the cyclical nature of conflict and reconciliation. The image invites us to reflect on how our shared visual language connects us across centuries.