Hayne Hudjihini, Eagle of Delight

Inman's portraits of Native Americans were painted in preparation for hand-colored lithographs to be made for a publication by the Head of Indian Affairs, Thomas L. McKenney-The History of the Indian Tribes of North America (1836-44). These distinguished leaders had originally been painted from life by Charles Bird King when invited to Washington in 1822. King's portraits were destroyed by fire in 1865. In this rare portrayal of a Native American woman, Hayne Hudjihini, Eagle of Delight-wife of Sumonyeacathee, Chief of the Otoe-Missouria people-wears earrings, necklaces, and a silver bracelet.

Read a Native Perspective on this work.

Credit: Gift of Gerald and Kathleen Peters, in celebration of the Museum's 150th Anniversary, 2018