Edward S. Curtis
(1868 - 1952)
The Oath, 1908
silver gelatin print - toned
signed lower right recto in black ink: Curtis
In the negative at lower left on print recto: X2627-08

Negative Date: 1908
Print Date: ca. 1908
Apsaroke, Great Plains

This is an important Curtis image and was chosen as the frontispiece for Volume IV of The North American Indian. This is also one of CurtisÂ’ most sought after images. It is a classic Northern plains image that combines both a beautiful landscape and a compelling ceremony. In this photograph the Apsaroke warrior takes an oath of truth and honor while two other warriors act as witnesses. The Oath requires the man to thrust an arrow through a piece of meat, place it upon a red-painted buffalo skull, raise it toward the sun and, if his words are true, touch the meat to his mouth. The ceremony was intended for use with difficult or controversial communications to help insure both the veracity and good intentions of the speaker.

This is a toned print, on matte surface silver gelatin paper, and mounted to vintage board.
12 15/16 x 9 15/16 in. (32.86 x 25.24 cm.), Mount: 12 15/16 x 10 in. (32.86 x 25.40 cm.)
Edward Curtis Studio, Seattle
Private Collection(s)
The Christopher G. Cardozo Collection, 2018

Publication History - Image:
The North American Indian (1907-1930), Volume 4, Frontispiece
Sacred Legacy: Edward S. Curtis and the North American Indian, Simon & Schuster, 2000, Page 37
Edward S. Curtis: The Great Warriors, Bulfinch Press, 2004, Plate 23
The North American Indian Republication Custom Edition, Christopher Cardozo Fine Art, 2014, Volume 4, Frontispiece
The North American Indian Republication Reference Edition, Christopher Cardozo Fine Art, 2017, Volume 4, Frontispiece

This print is in very good condition overall. A formal, detailed condition report is available upon request.

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