Andy Warhol Indian War Bonnet (F & S II.373) For Sale

War Bonnet Indian is one of four screenprints created for the first iteration of Andy Warhol’s 1986 Cowboys and Indians portfolio. Later that year, Warhol expanded the portfolio, created a second one that juxtaposed reappropriated images of Native Americans and figures from Hollywood Western films. Throughout this series, Warhol took cliched characters and items from Native American culture to create an ironic commentary on America and Hollywood’s idealised perception of the American West. However, the lack of juxtaposition between Hollywood and reality adds an interesting layer within this portfolio, as it arguably gives a platform to a culture that is rarely depicted, especially by an artist associated so heavily with American consumerism and celebrity culture. Rather, Warhol transforms Native American people into Pop Art icons.

This print depicts the powerful and stoic figure of a War Bonnet Indian. Ready to jump into battle, the man fiercely grips his spear, which extends off the Lenox Museum Board. The man is wearing a grand and beautiful native American war bonnet, which were traditionally reserved for solely the leaders of the American Plains Indians Nations,  the most powerful and highly respected position within the tribe. Behind the figure we can see outlines of Native American teepees, sketched out in less detail than the man as he dominates the composition. Reality is taken away from the print through Warhol’s signature Pop Art colouring. The figure is doused in a bright pink across his skin, making him pop against the white background. Purple colours are splashed throughout the print, adding extra detail to the dress of the figure. His clothes contrast beautifully with the purple, as Warhol colours him in a rich yellow colour, embellished with hints of red, black and white. In a true Warholian manner, black, gestural lines are hand drawn across the print, adding texture and depth to the headpiece and clothes.

Although Warhol so often denies any political meaning behind his pieces, there is an undeniable political force behind these. It presents the dichotomy between the reality of the Native American’s way of life, and the dramatized, Hollywood version of it. This piece brings up questions of theatricalization, exploitation and war.

Buy Andy Warhol War Bonnet Indian (F & S II.373)

Andipa Editions, as part of Andipa, have been at the forefront of the Warhol market for over 20 years. To enquire about buying War Bonnet Indian (F & S II.373) by Andy Warhol, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371.

Sell Andy Warhol War Bonnet Indian (F & S II.373) by Andy Warhol

With a global network of active buyers, Andipa Editions are the place to sell your  War Bonnet Indian (F & S II.373) print. Straight-forward and stress-free, we manage the process on your behalf and help to maximise your return. For a complimentary valuation of your War Bonnet Indian (F & S II.373) print, contact us via sales@andipa.com or on +44 (0) 20 7589 2371. Explore our collection of Andy Warhol original prints for sale.