Indian on Horseback with Companion Horse and Dog [SOLD]

Ben Quintana (1923-1944) Ha-a-tee was probably the most talented painter from Cochiti Pueblo of the early 20th century.  It was a real tragedy when he lost his life during World War II at only the age of 21 years. He was awarded the Silver Star posthumously for gallantry in action. We would have seen some marvelous work from this young man had he lived to produce it.  Cochiti Pueblo residents today still respect him for his art and gallantry.

At the age of 15, Quintana won first prize over 80 contestants, of whom 7 were Indians, for a poster to be used in the Coronado Cuarto Centennial celebration. Later, he won first prize and $1000 in an American Magazine contest in which there were 52,587 entries. As testimony to his interest, he used the prize money to further his art education.

In this painting, a young Indian (Native American) boy relaxes on his horse while leading another horse possibly to pasture.  The Native American and his dog are looking back at something undefined.

Condition: appears to be in original condition

Recommended Reading: Southwest Indian Painting: A Changing Art by Clara Lee Tanner.  This book is currently not available from Adobe Gallery

Provenance: from the collection of a gentleman from Florida