Cigar Store Indian c. 1941

Sydney Roberts created this watercolor work of art, "Cigar Store Indian," sometime in the 20th century. The statue of an Indian figure, adorned with vibrant colors, stands rigidly. This creates a curious tension between its aesthetic appeal and its historical context. The composition is vertically oriented. This draws attention to the figure's posture, which combines a traditional, almost noble stance, with commercial intentions through an outstretched hand offering cigars. The color palette – reds, greens, and yellows – while visually striking, contributes to a sense of commodification, turning the cultural symbol into a sales tool. The artwork challenges viewers to decode its multiple layers. It functions not just as an aesthetic object but as a complex signifier of cultural appropriation and commercial exchange. This highlights how art can reflect and challenge societal values and power structures.