This intimate watercolor depicting a Shoshone man preparing his meal is likely a study for a larger work Miller painted for William T. Walters in 1858 – 60. Here, Miller focused on his principal subject engaged in the task of portioning rib meat. Miller suggested a backdrop by outlining seated figures and teepees overlaid in washes of grays and blues. The Walters painting presents a wider angle on the scene; Miller situated the Shoshone man near a small campfire and more clearly defined the domestic scene behind him.
