Manabosho's Devices 1849 - 1855

"Manabosho's Devices" was made in the mid-19th century by Seth Eastman and details a series of pictographs. Eastman, an American soldier and artist, is known for his depictions of Native American life, informed by his military postings in areas like Dakota Territory. This work invites us to consider the complex dynamics of representation during a period of westward expansion and cultural exchange—or, more aptly, cultural appropriation. As we look at these symbols, let's think about the power dynamics inherent in Eastman, a non-Native individual, documenting and interpreting Indigenous visual language. How does Eastman's position as an outsider influence the way these stories are told and understood? Does it maintain traditional representations or develop alternative narratives? The emotional weight of this piece lies in its preservation of cultural heritage, but also its entanglement with a colonial gaze. It is a visual record, yes, but one shaped by the artist's own background and the broader political context.