Original Painting of Pueblo Dance Scene [SOLD]

This original painting by Tonita Peña (Quah Ah) of San Ildefonso Pueblo was probably painted in the 1920s as determined by the style of the signature. Over her career, Tonita used a variety of signatures on her paintings. (A complete description of the signatures and corresponding dates used may be seen in the biographical information provided by clicking on her name just below the above picture.)

The image depicts a pueblo ceremonial dance in the traditional style with no ground plane and no background. In her paintings of dancers such as this she was able to make her dancers appear in motion rather than fixed in time. Take note of the raised feet of the two male figures and the slightly raised right foot of the female dancer.

Tonita Peña was born at San Ildefonso Pueblo, but was sent, by her father, following the death of her mother, to live with an aunt at Cochiti Pueblo at the age of 12. She spent the remainder of her life there. She had begun painting when she was seven years old. She was the only woman painter in her generation and was part of the original group who participated in the contemporary watercolor movement.

This painting is very representational of her painting style. Most often she included a female in her paintings and who would be part of the dance group. The banner carrier at the lead and the drummer at the rear are also often seen in her paintings.

Condition: The painting appears to be in very good condition. There is a slight discoloration of the paper in the upper right but that does not enter into the painting itself. The mat is acid-free and in good condition. A beautiful black wood frame of substantial size encloses the painting.