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DiaporamaKicking Bird
Acrylic On Canvas- WallArt
- Romanticism
1870
13.0 x 10.0 cm
National Portrait Gallery
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Kicking Bird
Reproduction Medium
Reproduction Size
-
Total Price
$ 263
Artwork Description
A Portrait of Resilience: William Stinson Soule’s “Kicking Bird”
The photograph "Kicking Bird," created by William Stinson Soule in 1870, stands as a testament to both the artistic prowess of its creator and the profound cultural significance embedded within Native American iconography. Captured in black and white, this image depicts Kicking Bird, a Cheyenne warrior, seated calmly beside a pipe – an emblem deeply rooted in Cheyenne spirituality and tradition. Soule’s meticulous attention to detail elevates “Kicking Bird” beyond mere documentation; it's a carefully considered portrayal that speaks volumes about the era’s fascination with ethnographic observation and the burgeoning field of photography as a tool for preserving cultural heritage.The Artist’s Journey: From Civil War Soldier to Photographic Pioneer
William Stinson Soule’s life was shaped by pivotal experiences during the American Civil War. Enlisting with the 13th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, he bravely served on the Union side, sustaining injuries at Antietam – a battle that underscored the brutal realities of conflict and solidified his commitment to duty. Following the war, Soule pursued his passion for photography, establishing a studio in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, before facing unforeseen hardship when a devastating fire consumed his business. Undeterred by setbacks, he relocated to Fort Dodge, Kansas, where he honed his skills as a clerk in the sutler’s store and ultimately secured the position of post photographer – an opportunity that allowed him to document the landscapes and people of the American West.Technical Considerations: Soule's Photographic Approach
Soule employed albumen printing, a technique prevalent during the late 1860s and early 1870s. This process involved immersing paper in a solution containing egg whites and metallic salts – a laborious undertaking that demanded precision and patience. The resulting image possessed remarkable tonal range and sharpness, capturing subtle nuances of light and shadow with impressive accuracy. Soule’s skillful manipulation of exposure and dodging ensured that Kicking Bird's face was illuminated prominently, conveying both dignity and solemn contemplation. Furthermore, the photograph’s composition—the warrior positioned centrally against a muted backdrop—suggested an intention to convey respect for the subject and his cultural heritage.Symbolism Within the Image: The Pipe as Spiritual Representation
The inclusion of the pipe is paramount to understanding “Kicking Bird.” For Cheyenne people, the pipe represents more than just a smoking instrument; it’s a conduit to the spirit world and a symbol of peace, healing, and connection with ancestors. Holding the pipe signifies Kicking Bird's adherence to Cheyenne traditions and his engagement in rituals intended to foster harmony and spiritual awareness. The posture itself—seated calmly—reflects a contemplative demeanor that embodies resilience and inner strength – qualities admired within Cheyenne culture during this period of westward expansion and increasing interaction with European settlers.Emotional Resonance: Capturing the Essence of Cheyenne Identity
“Kicking Bird” transcends its technical merits to evoke a powerful emotional response. The photograph’s stark monochrome palette contributes to its solemn atmosphere, emphasizing the seriousness of the subject matter and conveying a sense of timelessness. Soule's portrayal captures not only Kicking Bird's physical appearance but also his inner spirit—a quiet dignity born from unwavering faith in tradition and a profound connection to Cheyenne heritage. It serves as an enduring reminder of the importance of preserving cultural narratives and honoring the experiences of indigenous communities during a transformative era in American history.Related Artworks
Artist Biography
William Stinson Soule: A Life in Photography
Early Life and Military Service
William Stinson Soule, also known as Will Soule, was born on August 26, 1836, in Turner, Maine, the son of John Soule and Mary (née True). His early life took a dramatic turn with the outbreak of the American Civil War. He enlisted with the 13th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, serving the Union Army. Soule was wounded at the Battle of Antietam on September 17, 1862, and subsequently served out the remainder of the war with the Veteran Reserve Corps.
Photographic Career: From Pennsylvania to the West
Following his military service, Soule embarked on a career in photography. In 1865, he opened a studio and gallery in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. However, this venture was short-lived; a fire destroyed his business in early 1867. Undeterred, Soule moved west to Fort Dodge, Kansas, where he worked as a clerk in the sutler's store.
A pivotal moment arrived in 1869 when Soule became the post photographer at Fort Sill, Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma). For six years, he held this position, capturing high-quality portraits and photographs of Native American individuals and groups. This period represents the most significant contribution to his photographic legacy.
Work and Style
Soule’s work is characterized by its technical proficiency and attention to detail – hallmarks of late 19th-century photography. His portraits, particularly those of Native Americans, are notable for their dignity and respect. He wasn't simply documenting; he was creating lasting visual records of a changing era.
- Portraiture: Soule excelled in portrait photography, capturing the likenesses of soldiers, settlers, and especially Native American leaders and families.
- Documentation: His photographs served as important documentation of life on the frontier during a period of significant cultural contact and conflict.
- Technical Skill: Soule’s work demonstrates mastery of photographic techniques available at the time, including wet plate collodion processes.
Later Life and Legacy
In 1875, Soule left Fort Sill and returned east. He married Ella Augusta Blackman that year and resided in Philadelphia before moving to Vermont and finally settling in Boston in 1882. There, he took over his older brother's business, the Soule Art Company, until his retirement in 1900.
William Stinson Soule passed away on August 12, 1908. While not a household name today, his photographs remain invaluable historical resources, offering insights into the American West and its diverse inhabitants during a crucial period of transformation.
Historical Significance
Soule’s contributions lie in his meticulous documentation of Native American life and culture at a time when these communities were undergoing profound changes. His photographs provide a visual record that complements written accounts, offering a more nuanced understanding of the era. His work continues to be studied by historians and art enthusiasts alike, ensuring his place as an important figure in the history of Western photography.
william stinson soule
1836 - 1908 , United States of America
Quick Facts
- Birth Date: August 26, 1836
- Birth Place: Turner, Maine, United States of America
- Death Date: August 12, 1908
- Movement: Photography
- Name: William Stinson Soule
- Nationality: American
- Notable Works: Photographs of Native American subjects and the American West (specifically Kicking Bird)
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