Buffalo Dancers

Object detail

Media/Materials

Watercolor on paper

Measurements

11 1/8 x 14 1/8in (28.3 x 35.9cm)

Credit line

Bequest of Marion Koogler McNay

Accession number

1950.692

Object type

Drawings and Watercolors

Department

Spanish Colonial and Native American Art

Location

Not on view

Further information

Animal Dances, such as the Buffalo Dance, are usually performed in Winter as a prayer for the increase of that particular animal. Tonita Peña's depiction shows the adornments of the Buffalo Dancers, from the earth brown paint on their bodies, to the conical tin pieces attached to the bottom of their kilts. These ornaments, combined with the melodic vibrations of the rattles and drums, provide compelling visual and sound effects.

Buffalo Maidens, impersonating the mothers of the game animals, appear in hand-woven dresses embroidered at top and bottom.

Maker

Tonita Peña (b.1893, d.1949)

My shortlist

Subject category

San Ildefonso Pueblo Pueblo Native American Americas dancers performers People clothing and costume Furnishings and Equipment buffalo Animals drums instruments headwear

Explore other objects by colour

Public comments

Sort

Be the first to comment on this object record.

Add comment

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.