Indian in all his Splendor on Horseback [SOLD]

This is an exquisite original painting by Julián Martinez of San Ildefonso Pueblo that probably dates to 1920s or 1930s.  Julián often painted Plains Indian images such as this mounted Indian with a Plains’ feathered bonnet. Perhaps he liked the clothing of the Plains Indians.  San Ildefonso celebrates a Comanche Dance annually, which is another influence that could be responsible.

Julian drew the image in pencil then filled in with paint.  The yellow color of the face and upper body of the Indian blends in with the yellow color of the background paper because the original pencil outline was painted over with the yellow paint.  Despite this naïve treatment and casual organization, the subject matter is obviously that of directly perceived reality.

Julián Martinez is most often associated with his wife, Maria Martinez, as the painter of her ceramics from the early 1900s until his death in 1943. He did, however, execute paintings on paper as well. He was one of the very early San Ildefonso self-taught easel artists. His watercolor paintings were definitely a minor activity as compared to his brilliant achievements as the decorator of Maria’s pottery. He was painting watercolors before 1920 and continued as time permitted until his death.

Condition: appears to be in original condition

Provenance: from the collection of a family from Albuquerque

Recommended Reading: Southwest Indian Painting: A Changing Art by Clara Lee Tanner