Evening On Puget Sound

1912

American, 1868-1952

Reading visual documents such as these Curtis prints is problematic because the interactions of Natives and Anglo-Americans in the early twentieth century were complex experiences. Although Curtis likely staged the scenes to instill nostalgic sentiment, the Native models wear western clothing as they would typically have done at this time, and stand next to a type of canoe that was still in use. Are the people-momentarily suspended in time, bathed in the soft glow of light-looking out toward an unknown fate? Or have they perhaps come to terms with evolving social realities, adopting new practices while retaining elements of traditional ways of life.

Photogravure on vellum (paper)

11 3/4 x 15 11/16 in. (29.9 x 39.9 cm)

Gift of John H. Hauberg

86.169

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, "The View From Here: The Pacific Northwest 1800-1930," August 8, 2003 - February 29, 2004

Seattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, "Shadowy Evidence: The Photography of Edward S. Curtis and His Contemporaries", August 10- November 11, 1989, (08/10/1989 - 11/19/1989)

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

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