Esh Ta Hum Leah or The Sleepy Eye

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Esh Ta Hum Leah or The Sleepy Eye", originally brought to life by the talented Charles Bird King. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Charles Bird King and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

Esh-Ta-Hum-Leah, or The Sleepy Eye, is a notable portrait by the American painter Charles Bird King, created in the early 19th century. King, renowned for his portraits of Native American leaders and dignitaries, made significant contributions to the visual documentation of indigenous peoples in the United States during a period of intense change and conflict. This painting is part of a larger body of work that aimed to capture the likenesses and personalities of Native American figures who visited Washington, D.C., as part of delegations negotiating treaties with the federal government.

The portrait of Esh-Ta-Hum-Leah showcases King's skill in rendering his subjects with dignity and depth, offering viewers a glimpse into the persona of The Sleepy Eye beyond the stereotypes and generalizations prevalent at the time. The Sleepy Eye was a leader of the Sisseton Dakota Sioux, and his portrait is a testament to the complex relationships and exchanges between Native American communities and the United States government.

King's work, including this portrait, was part of a larger collection commissioned by Thomas L. McKenney, head of the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs, who sought to create an archive of indigenous peoples through art. These portraits were initially displayed in the Indian Gallery in the Department of War, which later became part of the Smithsonian Institution's collections. Unfortunately, many of King's original paintings were destroyed in the Smithsonian fire of 1865, making the surviving pieces, such as The Sleepy Eye, invaluable for their historical and artistic significance.

Esh-Ta-Hum-Leah, or The Sleepy Eye, not only exemplifies Charles Bird King's artistic legacy but also serves as a poignant reminder of the early 19th-century Native American leaders and their enduring presence in American history and culture. Through King's empathetic and detailed portrayal, the painting invites reflection on the narratives and identities of those who played pivotal roles in the shaping of the nation.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.