Ralph Heinz
American, 20th c.
White Buffalo Calf Maiden
oil on canvas
A letter dated Sept. 18, 1989 and also written and signed by the artist accompanies this painting. It describes the woman (who stands outside before teepees wearing long braided hair, an elaborate beadwork top, a large striped blanket and a belt featuring large metal circle designs) as such, "[...] The face painting on the portrait of the Sioux woman is that of White Buffalo Calf Maiden, a benevolent holy woman revered for bringing religious instruction to the Sioux. The woman in the painting has her face painted to represent this mythological woman. This would have been done at the time of the sun dance."

Signed by the artist.
15" x 11". Framed 24" x 19".