Great Woman: Eagle of Delight of the Otoe, c 1795-1822
In the 1820's, the Otoe were a Siouan-speaking people located in Nebraska. Their leader was Chief Shaumonekusse, who had five wives. His principle and most beloved wife was Eagle of Delight, who journeyed with him in 1822 to Washington, D.C. and had her portrait painted by artist Charles Bird King. Native delegations to Washington were treated to a similar itinerary as diplomats. In addition to meetings with the President, members of Congress and other dignitaries, they would have their portraits painted, or later official photographs taken, as well as be the guests of honor at parties and theatrical performances. Charles Bird King, at that time considered one of the premier portraitists of Native American visitors, captured many of these likenesses. Most were men, but when Shaumonekusse brought his wife to Washington, King was thrilled to paint her portrait. Little is known of Eagle of Delight's life or how she and her husband met. Howe...