Smithsonian-Couse-Elk-Foot of the Taos Tribe-2278

Eanger Irving Couse (1866-1936) was an American painter known for his depictions of Native American life, particularly scenes from Taos Pueblo in New Mexico. He was a prominent member of the Taos Society of Artists, a group of artists who settled in Taos, New Mexico, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and were known for their depictions of the Southwest and its indigenous peoples. Born in Saginaw, Michigan, Couse studied art at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Académie Julian in Paris. He travelled extensively in Europe before returning to the United States and settling in Taos in 1902. In his paintings, Couse sought to capture the daily life, customs and traditions of the Taos Pueblo people, often depicting them in their traditional dress engaged in activities such as hunting, cooking and ceremonies. He was particularly adept at capturing the play of light and shadow in his outdoor scenes.