Indians Pursing an Elk

In this scene, Miller pictures a dramatic moment when, “after an exciting chase over the prairies, the Indian hunters have at length driven the Elk just where they would like to have him”—in the Platte River. But it is a fleeting opportunity, for if they do not reach him before he gets to the other side, he will escape. And, “even in the water he is a dangerous customer,” Miller warned, “for he has a trick of using his long horns to great advantage, and keeping his enemies at bay.”

This painting may be the sketch for an unlocated picture that Miller sold to one of his clients in 1849, rather than a scene that he encountered on his trip. (CR# 374A)

Ron Tyler