Following the travesty at Wounded Knee and the killing of Sitting Bull, Bull's followers and family found themselves outcasts within their own tribe as others feared the possible repercussions for collaborating with those who had refused to submit to the white man. This photograph shows one of the few ways Bull's family could now find to support themselves, a form of degrading prostitution performed before the camera. Bull's two surviving widows have cut their hair short as an expression of sorrow and grief in his death. (Harbaugh, P., 1982)
Dimensions
23 X 18.5 cm
Size Overall
51 X 41 cm
Medium
Black and white photograph
Condition
"Severe bowing back of both vertical edges away from mat. The tension holders on the back, which keep the back board snug, are coming loose."
canvas torn in area 8 cm TL x 5cm L side (c. 1 cm). Major scratch on TR of image (c. 2 cm). Frame - loss of plaster in BL corner, TR corner, lower R side (1996) and TM (2020)
Primary Support
canvas
Secondary Support
no backing board; frame - wood and plaster with gild
There is a 3cm tear in TR area of painting. Frame has plaster gild broken in various areas, especially along the left vertical arm. The finish on the frame is also worn off in various places.
Primary Support
canvas
Secondary Support
plexiglass, backing paper; frame - wood and plaster with gild