HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. John K. Two photographs of Cheyenne warrior, Little Bear. Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875.

2 albumen photographs, approx. 9 x 7 in., on original 15 x 13 in. cardstock mounts, uncredited but known to have been taken by John K. Hillers. The photographs depict Little Bear, a Cheyenne warrior, also known as, Na-ku-has-kit, wearing a breastplate and holding a bow and quiver, posed among rocks at the Grand Council in Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 10 May 1875.

In connection with John Wesley Powell's ethnographic survey work, Hillers took a series of photographs at the Grand Council. Accurately documenting his work, he noted, "I found six Cheyenne who had just left the warpath. I took them among the rocks and set them up as food for my camera." His diary records the specific date.

Little Bear fought a brave rearguard action in the face of Colonel John Chivington's troops at Sand Creek on 29 November 1864, and his heroic actions enabled many Cheyenne women and children to escape the massacre.

Provenance: Ex Kramer Gallery Collection; Cowan's, Historic Americana, 9 June 2005, Lot 1306 (one of the two photographs offered here).

The Larry Ness Collection of Native American Photography

This lot is located in Cincinnati.

Overall very good. One print with light, even toning. Mounts display light soiling, with some chipping to corners and edges.

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Katie Horstman

VP, Head of Department, American Historical Ephemera and Early Photography

[email protected]513.666.4958

Ms. Horstman has spent over a decade specializing in historic photography and Americana at auction. During her tenure, she has overseen several notable single owner auctions, including property from the inventory of celebrated Americana and antique arms expert Norm Flayderman. During her time with the firm, she has maintained an active membership in the Daguerreian Society. Ms. Horstman holds an MA in Art History from the University of Cincinnati and a BA in Art History from The Ohio State University.

American Historical Ephemera and Early Photography, including The Larry Ness Collection of Native American Photography

HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. John K. Two photographs of Cheyenne warrior, Little Bear. Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875.

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