Edward S. Curtis
(1868 - 1952)
A Zuni Governor (Sat Sa, a Young Zuni Governor), 1900
platinum print
Signed, in black ink at lower right on print recto: Curtis
Copyright blind stamp, at lower left on print recto, faint (Pointed Ends): COPYRIGHTED 1900 BY E.S. CURTIS
In negative at lower left on print recto: 110-00

Negative Date: 1900
Print Date: 1900
Zuni, Southwest

This is one of Curtis’ earliest, most compelling and most iconic portraits. It was made of an important leader (“Sa We Ta Fina”) in the Northern New Mexico pueblo of Zuni (which is still famous for its beautiful pottery). The subject has an unusually focused and intent gaze, which is accentuated by his strong facial features, the strong, clean, and elegant composition and the dramatic lighting. This is clearly one of Curtis’ most important portraits and it was printed by Curtis in at least five different print mediums for exhibition and/or sale.
15 7/8 x 11 5/16 in. (40.32 x 28.73 cm.)
Edward Curtis Studio, Seattle
Private Collection(s)
The Christopher G. Cardozo Collection, 1999

Exhibited:
Sacred Legacy: Edward S. Curtis and the North American Indian (64 print exhibit), 2004, Schumacher Gallery, Columbus, OH
Sacred Legacy: Edward S. Curtis and the North American Indian (64 print exhibit), 2009, Crossman Gallery, Whitewater, WI (Curtis' birthplace)

Publication History - Image:
The North American Indian (1907-1930), Portfolio 17, Plate #607
Sacred Legacy: Edward S. Curtis and the North American Indian, Simon & Schuster, 2000, Page 110
Edward S. Curtis: The Great Warriors, Bulfinch Press, 2004, Plate 58
Edward S. Curtis One Hundred Masterworks, Delmonico Books/Prestel Publishing, 2015, Page 20, 124, 163

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

The condition reports for the lots offered by Santa Fe Art Auction (SFAA) are provided as a courtesy and convenience for potential buyers. The reports are not intended to nor do they substitute for physical examination by a buyer or the buyer's advisors. The condition reports are prepared by SFAA staff members who are not art conservators or restorers, nor do they possess the qualifications needed for comprehensive evaluation. Each condition report is an opinion of the staff member and should not be treated as a statement of fact. The absence of a condition report does not imply anything as to the condition of a particular lot. Buyers are reminded that the limited warranties are set forth in the Terms and Conditions of Sale and do not extend to condition. Each lot is sold as-is.