A Chippeway Widow

Artist James Otto Lewis (American, 1799 - 1858)

Artist Charles Bird King (American, 1785 - 1862)

Author Thomas L. McKenney (American, 1785 - 1859)

Author James Hall (American, 1793 - 1865)

Lithographer J.T. Bowen and Co.

Publisher Frederick W. Greenough (American)

Date1838

Mediumlithograph on paper, hand-colored

Dimensions21 1/4 × 15 3/16 inches (54 × 38.6 cm)
Frame: 22 1/2 × 16 1/2 × 1 5/16 inches (57.2 × 41.9 × 3.3 cm)

Credit LinePurchase of the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation, 1978

Object number91.110.8

ClassificationsPrints

Label TextThe text in “History of the Indian Tribes of North America” explains this image. McKenney and Hall wrote that a Chippeway widow makes a bundle from her husband’s best clothes. She carries it with her everywhere. It is a sign of respect for her husband. The widow carries it for at least a year. During that time, she does not remarry. She can continue to carry it after a year. When her husband’s family takes it away, she is free to marry a second time.

ProvenancePurchased November 2, 1978 through (W. Graham Arader, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania) by the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation; accessioned to the Stark Museum of Art

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