This carving is my representation of a Crow warrior with a spear and buffalo hide shield. The Crow inhabited the region along the Yellowstone River and its tributaries, in present day Montana. Though they themselves spoke a Siouan dialect, they were at constant war with the Sioux, therefore many Crow were employed by the United States army as Indian scouts in the wars against the Sioux in the late 19th century. Nevertheless the Crow held contempt for the white incursion, and bitterly resisted the loss of their land and traditional culture.
    By carving my "cigar store" or "wooden" Indians in a realistic type representation of various tribes, I hope to lend an air of dignity and authenticity to the subjects of this traditional woodcarving artform.