Bull Head, Pawnee, from the American Indian Chiefs series (N36) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

Editor: We're looking at "Bull Head, Pawnee," a print from 1888, part of the American Indian Chiefs series by Allen & Ginter Cigarettes. It has this kind of… earnest feel? Like they're really trying, but… something feels off. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Earnest is a good word for it, almost a bit theatrical, isn't it? I find myself wondering about the intention behind these portraits. On one level, there's this desire to document, to capture a likeness. But then you remember it’s attached to a cigarette brand. Do you see the juxtaposition? Editor: Yeah, it’s definitely… strange. Almost feels exploitative. Like they’re using this image to sell cigarettes, commodifying him. Is it fair to be critical? Or are we judging it by today's standards? Curator: Well, can we separate it from the historical context? That's the real question. I look at the composition. Bull Head himself, then these flattened symbols beside him – the feathers, shield. All neatly arranged like a specimen. There's a visual hierarchy here, isn't there? Almost suggesting conquest or possession... even a desire to claim "ownership". Does the image capture him, or attempt to reduce his identity? What is your view? Editor: So, maybe not so earnest, more… appropriative? I didn't think about the way the objects are arranged; it felt so... I guess my view changed. Curator: Exactly! Sometimes art shakes our preconceived notions. Perhaps our perception should change each time that we encounter a new vision, whether created by artist or beholder. Editor: It’s wild how much context shifts everything. I guess that’s why we keep looking! Curator: Couldn't have said it better myself. Every look can trigger change, especially how we reflect on historical imagery!