Cigar Store Indian c. 1937

Chris Makrenos created this work, "Cigar Store Indian," which depicts a figure adorned with feathers, and a red tunic. Makrenos was born in 1855, a time when the United States was still expanding westward, often at the expense of Native American populations. The title itself points to a complex history of cultural appropriation and the commodification of Native American identity. These figures were commonly placed outside tobacco shops as a marketing tool, turning Native American culture into a symbol for commercial gain. While appearing to honor Native Americans, they perpetuated stereotypes and reduced a diverse group of people to a single, marketable image. Makrenos’ rendering of the figure in bright colors and decorative clothing seems to further exoticize and romanticize this image. It prompts us to consider the emotional and personal dimensions tied to cultural representation, and challenges us to think about how stereotypes are formed and perpetuated in our society.