An uneasy peace: 1611 Truce

"An uneasy peace: 1611 Truce", Acrylic on Masonite, 2'x4'

According to Helen Rountree, a professor at Old Dominion University and author of several Virginia Native American History Books, in 1611 the Powhatan Indians made a truce with the Monacan Nation.

The Monacan and Powhatan Nations were not allies, in fact they were enemies and fought many battles. The scene above attempts to portray a sense of distrust and reluctance; particularly on the Indian in the middle - Powhatan's adviser. Yet, there is hope, hope that now Powhatan can focus on the English and not on the Monacan Nation.

How this piece was made:

Last Friday (Jan. 27th) my wife and I made a trip out to the Monacan Nation's Indian Museum. While there we saw a facial reconstruction of a Monacan Indian and that model served as the representative for the Monacan peoples (he is on the right in the image). The Calumet (or pipe) he is holding is a traditional pipe smoked by four people, on display at the museum as well.

The other models came from my series of sketch book drawings made throughout the last five years.

To learn more about the Monacan Nation just visit there facebook page or their official website at: www.MonacanNation.com