Ernesto Zepeda (1943-2017) Portrait of an Indian, 1983
Oil on Canvas Canvas: 36” x 24” Frame: 42” x 30”
Signed and Dated Lower Left: ERNESTO ZEPEDA 83
In this portrait, a Native American man’s face is depicted in fine detail. The artist skillfully cuts lines into delicate strands to add texture to the man’s hair and features, while maintaining a monochromatic color palette. The band of fabric around the figure’s head stands out, a brighter, saturated red to match the frame. The piece invites reflection as the viewer reads the man’s contemplative expression.
Zepeda was a world traveler, best known for his ethnic portraits. A large part of his work is concentrated on the Pueblos and Reservation life of the Southwest native peoples.
Provenance: Bradford’s Auction Gallery, Wild West Art Auction, November 6, 2022, Lot 1518 Private Collection, Utah
