The Grand Robe
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.The imagery on this buffalo hide (widely known as The Grand Robe due to its superb quality) celebrates the deeds of at least two great Lakota warriors and their companions. The painted histories, by unknown male artists, came to life when the owner used the garment to recount battle stories. Sixty figures are depicted across fourteen episodes, which merge together to form a composition filled with movement and visual energy.
Artwork Details
- Title: The Grand Robe
- Date: ca. 1800–1830
- Geography: United States, Central Plains
- Culture: Central Plains
- Medium: Native-tanned leather, pigment, porcupine quills
- Dimensions: Length: 58 3/8 in. (148.3 cm)
Width: 88 1/4 in. (224.2 cm) - Classification: Leather
- Credit Line: Musée du quai Branly, Paris, Gift of Chaplain Duparc (71.1886.17.1)
- Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing