Smithsonian American Art Museum
Grizzly Bears Attacking Indians on Horseback
George Catlin, born Wilkes-Barre, PA 1796-died Jersey City, NJ 1872 · 1832-1833
The prairies of the 1830s were a paradise for animal predators as well as enthusiastic huntsmen. Eagles, wolves, mountain lions, and grizzly bears were among the beasts hunting the abundant antelope, elk, and buffalo. George Catlin described many encounters between predators and prey, but could only make quick sketches of these incidents as they unfolded, in hopes of capturing the excitement in more finished studio works. This work was painted in the artist's studio during the winter of 1832-33.
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