This carving is my representation of an Osage warrior. The Osage settled in the hilly region of Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas, known as the Ozarks. Being known as mighty warriors they were a much feared tribe by their enemies. They were admired for their skill as craftsmen, making bows from a type of hardwood which has since become known as "Osage orange, or Bo'darc". The Osage were also known to be a tall and handsome people, who stubbornly sought to hold on to their culture in the face of the overrunning of their lands, caused by the forced removal of the Indians of the southeast United States to the "Indian territory" of Oklahoma.
    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.