Canada's Got Treasures

The Four Indian Kings were painted in 1710 by John Verelst, a Dutch artist at the court of Queen Anne of England. The portraits are the earliest full-length oil-paintings of North American Aboriginal peoples. Ho Nee Yeath Taw No Row (baptized John), Etow Oh Koam (baptized Nicholas), Sa Ga Yeath Pieth Tow (baptized Brant), and Tee Yee Neen Ho Ga Row (baptized Hendrick) are the Chiefs (sachems) who were selected to represent the Iroquoian Confederacy at the royal meeting with Queen Anne. The so-called “Four Kings” sought to solidify an alliance with England and military aid against the French. The portraits were probably painted in two stages, a common practice during this era. The details of the face, in particular the tattoos, indicate that the faces were painted from life. The clothing and objects on the other hand were probably completed in the artist’s studio from sketches, notes and objects. The Chiefs stand in an imagined North American landscape posed at a slight angle, a pose used by European nobles. They are dressed in scarlet cloaks with gold borders made for them soon after their arrival in London. Items belonging to Iroquois culture are also featured in the portraits. These include their clan totems – the bear, wolf, and turtle- also the belts decorated with moose hair or porcupine quills, the beaded moccasins and the ball club. Tee Yee Neen Ho Ga Row, presented as the top ranking member of the group, is the only one wearing a complete English outfit. His wampum belt, used to commemorate treaties and historical events, shows the importance of his diplomatic position.
Library and Archives Canada
Library and Archives Canada

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