Talavera Treasure Trove Closed (#17045395)

Frank Gallagher Cigar Store Indian

This Frank Gallagher Cigar Store Indian is a vibrant echo of Native Americana, an artful representation rooted in the enduring legacy of the Gallagher family's wood carving tradition. Since the 1840s, this lineage has been honoring the cultural narratives of the Mandan tribe through woodwork, a testament to their strong spirit. Crafted from the aspen of Colorado, the statue stands as a depiction of art and a symbol of resilience.

Frank Gallagher, one of the last Mandan Indians, is a custodian of his tribe’s history, a lineage nearly erased by the ravages of smallpox. His forebear's survival, owing to his absence from the village while in the employ of Samuel Gallagher, ensured the continuation of this distinct carving tradition. Adopting the Gallagher surname, a common practice of that time, Frank's ancestor passed down an art form rich with significance and skill. The meticulous detail and assertive posture of this wooden chief honor the Gallaghers’ commitment to their ancestral carving methods. With a predecessor's work enshrined in the Smithsonian Institute, this statue is not only an heirloom of craftsmanship but also an emblem of a poignant past, offering its possessor a tangible piece of a nearly forgotten heritage.

• Craftsmanship: Expertly hand-carved and painted
• Authenticity: Signed by Frank Gallagher

Condition:

• The piece is in good condition.

Dimensions:

• Height: 3 feet
• Width: 9 inches
• Weight: 151 lbs
• Displayed with a soup can for scale, illustrating its substantial presence.