The artwork titled “A Choctaw Woman” was crafted by the artist George Catlin in the year 1834. It belongs to the Realism art movement and is a portrait that captures the likeness and essence of its subject.
“A Choctaw Woman” presents a side profile of a Native American Choctaw woman, portrayed with a sense of dignity and composure. The artist has detailed the subject with cultural attributes, such as a traditional hairstyle and decorative elements, which include vibrant facial paint and an array of necklaces composed of various beads. The brushwork is visible and adds texture to the clothing, which drapes gracefully over the woman’s shoulders. The backdrop is muted, directing the viewer’s attention solely to the subject. This choice in composition emphasizes the realism intended by Catlin, focusing on the authentic depiction of the individual and her cultural attire without romanticizing or embellishing her appearance.