Bonnie Halsey-Dutton (American, Contemporary). "Sunkawakan" (Lakota for Holy Dog) watercolor and gouache on paper, 2017. Signed on bottom right. A magnificent painting depicting a herd of horses titled "Sunkawakan" - the Lakota word for horses which literally translates to "Holy Dog" - by ethnographic artist Bonnie Halsey-Dutton. This mesmerizing imagery is delineated in Halsey-Dutton's expressive manner and uniquely floated upon a backdrop that the artist faux-painted to resemble buffalo hide in a deep acrylic shadowbox frame. The Cheyenne people introduced the Lakota to horses circa 1730. The Lakota were nomadic peoples, and horses made it much easier to transport heavy loads as well as engage in buffalo hunts. Size: 18" L x 11" W (45.7 cm x 27.9 cm) Size: 22.4" L x 15.4" W x 2.7" D (56.9 cm x 39.1 cm x 6.9 cm)

Please note: Bonnie Halsey-Dutton has used shadowbox framing to underscore the cultural importance of this theme and suggest a treasured museum artifact. In addition, this piece is painted on heavy-weight archival watercolor paper, and the manner of paint application was intended to convey age and weathering. Furthermore, the paper's deckled edge also imbues the piece with a sense of history.

Bonnie Halsey-Dutton was born and raised in South Dakota and is inspired by the local cultures where she resides as well as their history. She provides further insight with the following description, "Horses were not known to Native Americans until the coming of the Europeans to North and Central America. This domesticated animal which could be ridden by a human being required a new name. The Lakota called the horse 'Sunkawakan' which translated to 'Holy Dog'."

Provenance: private Spearfish, South Dakota, USA collection

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#174355

Overall excellent and demonstrates impressive artistry and technique. Signed and dated at bottom right. The artist has floated this painting in a deep clear acrylic shadowbox frame. The paper is mounted upon archival black foam core that has been permanently attached to a faux-painted heavy Masonite backing. Fit with suspension wire and ready to display. Halsey-Dutton's informative description and COA is attached to the verso of this piece.