Estimates do not reflect the final hammer price and do not include buyer's premium, any applicable taxes or artist's resale right. Please see the Conditions of Sale for full details.
The original owner of the present work, Sir William Drummond Stewart, commissioned Alfred Jacob Miller to travel to the American West with him in 1837. On the journey, Miller executed some of the earliest on-the-spot depictions of the American West, including the present work.
A related oil painting titled The Scalplock is in the collection of the Denver Art Museum, Denver, Colorado.
Related Articles
Sorry, we are unable to display this content. Please check your connection.
You have agreed to be bound by the Conditions of Sale and if your bid is successful, you are legally obliged to pay for the lot you have won. The purchase price for a successful bid will be the sum of your final bid plus a buyer’s premium, any applicable taxes and any artist resale royalty, exclusive of shipping-related expenses.
Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
This report was prepared by Alvarez Conservation Services, Inc.: Overall Condition: This watercolor, pencil, and gouache on paper is in good condition overall. Structural Condition: The primary paper layer has been glued to a secondary larger paper with a decorative line and the title written below. This is most likely original and is by the artist or his studio. The secondary paper is attached to a 4-ply rag board mount in four places with mylar corners. The primary paper layer exhibits mild undulations throughout the sheet as a result of the existing mounting. The paper is structurally intact and stable and does not present tears or paper losses. Visual Condition: The paper is mildly oxidized from contact with acidic material and a natural process of aging due to light exposure. This is visible evenly throughout the primary paper. The secondary original support paper shows moderate oxidation which is visible as a result of multiple framing treatment openings. There is a fine craquelure visible in the of the center image in areas where the artist applied a heavier layer of gum arabic. This craquelure has been consolidated to prevent flaking and loss. It is now considered stable with proper handling. Several small paint losses in this area, as well as a former crease bisecting the bottom-left corner, have been professionally inpainted to minimize their appearance. Otherwise, although some degree of fading is to be expected for a work of art of this age, the media is well preserved.
Cost calculator
Lot 26Sale 18433
An Indian With the Scalp Lock of His EnemyAlfred Jacob Miller (1810-1874)Estimate: USD 15,000 - 25,000
Enter your bid amount for an estimated cost
Bid amount
Please enter numbers onlyAmount must be higher than the starting bidAmount must be higher than the current bid