Cavalry Mounts for the Brave 1907

Charles Russell made this watercolor painting, Cavalry Mounts for the Brave, at the turn of the century in the United States. It depicts a Native American warrior on horseback, armed with a rifle, likely somewhere in the American West. The image creates meaning through visual codes and historical associations. Native Americans have a long history with horses. This relationship was altered after the arrival of Europeans, when they were able to acquire and integrate horses into their culture and warfare. By the late 19th century, horses were vital for hunting and fighting, and highly prized. The term 'cavalry mounts' in the title is significant, suggesting that these horses may have been taken from the US military, symbolizing resistance against the expansion into Native American territory. Understanding Russell’s image requires considering the social and institutional context of its creation. The artist's personal views and the prevailing social attitudes towards Native Americans can be researched through historical records, letters, and contemporary accounts.