Head of a Porcupine

Description

Bodmer's delineation of the head of a porcupine, an animal common to the upper Missouri, is dated October 7. It is one of a series of studies of the local fauna observed in the vicinity of Fort Union during the artist's return from Fort McKenzie. Almost calligraphic in style, it demonstrates Bodmer's ability in handling the diverse media of watercolor, ink, and pencil with equal facility.