Stephen Mopope (Oklahoma, 1898-1974) gouache on wove paper painting of a Kiowa Eagle Dancer in ceremonial regalia and viewed in profile, titled "Eagle Dancer". Signed "Mopope" lower left. Housed in a black plastic frame with cream mat. Sheet: 12" H x 8 13/16" W. Frame: 20 1/8" H x 16 1/8" W. Biographical Note: One of the most celebrated Kiowa artists of the twentieth century, Stephen Mopope (Qued Koi, Painted Robe) was a painter as well as a flute player, an avid dancer, and a farmer. His art depicts cultural aspects of Native American life, especially that of the Kiowa. He was born on the Kiowa Reservation in Indian Territory (now Oklahoma) and was the most prolific of the "Five Kiowa Artists," later the "Kiowa Six," who pioneered the "Flat Style" of painting that borrowed from traditional hide and tipi painting. This became the most recognizable and defined style employed by Native artists until the 1960s. (Adapted from The Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture, Oklahoma Historical Society and Smithsonian National Postal Museum.)

PROVENANCE: Private Southern collection, acquired from an Oklahoma collector who acquired it directly from the artist. 

With fading to colors, otherwise very good condition. Sheet is adhered to mat with tape applied en verso.