Lot 214: HILLERS, JOHN K. 1843-1925.

1. Albumen print photograph, 9 1/4 x 7 1/2 inches, [near Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875], being a portrait of Big Spotted Horse, Hillers attribution penned on lower right mount, identification ("Bi-nain-sit") on lower center mount, matted, minor toning and edgewear to mount, else excellent. Pawnee warrior Big Spotted Horse made his reputation early. He was only a teenager when his tribe was attacked by a band of Plains Indians while on a summer buffalo hunt. The Cheyenne Warrior Alights-on-the-Clouds gave chase to young Big Spotted Horse and attempted to ride him down. Alights-on-the-Clouds was nearly in striking distance with his sword, but Big Spotted Horse, who was left-handed, surprised the Cheyenne warrior and was able to shoot to his right, striking the warrior point-blank in the eye. The event turned the tide of the battle, distressing the Cheyennes who withdrew. Big Spotted Horse was celebrated as a hero. 2. Albumen print photograph, 9 3/8 x 7 1/4 inches, [n.p., 1875], being a portrait of Hack-i-vi," Hillers attribution penned on lower right mount, identification on lower center mount, minor spotting, else excellent. Hillers was skilled at both landscapes and portraits and must have felt comfortable shooting out of doors. Both of the present portraits benefit from having their subjects in a more naturalist setting that is never obtained on a studio set.