As Miller explained, “On approaching the band [of horses], his body swaying to and from, the noose part is flourished above the head, and as opportunity offers, is flung with great precision and dexterity, around the neck or leg, whichever appears most feasible to the Indian; and the tame horse is so trained that he immediately resists the strain by bracing himself back, against the suddenness of the jerk.” (Ross, 1968, text accompanying plate 80)
This marvelously spirited painting embodies Miller’s romantic ideal of natural man at home in the wilderness. It might have been his field study for the pen, ink, and wash drawing that he did for Stewart (CR #442A) or, perhaps, for the finished version that he made as a part of the William Walters commission.
