Billie, a Choctaw Man

Description

On his arrival in New Orleans, Bodmer was met by Joseph Barrabino, an Italian pharmacist and friend of Lesueur's, who offered the artist temporary accommodations at his home in the city. This was located near a principal market, where Bodmer had the opportunity to observe the first Indians he had seen since coming to North America. These he later described to Maximilian as "living in a sadly inactive condition." His portrait of a Choctaw man identified as "Billie" is dated at New Orleans on January 12.