Ds-Nicholas de Grandmaison 56 Nicholas De Grandmaison

Here we observe a portrait study executed in pastel on paper. The subject is an Indigenous man, likely Plains Cree based on contextual information provided below the image. He is depicted from the chest upwards, facing forward with a direct gaze toward the viewer. His expression conveys a sense of quiet dignity and perhaps weariness; the lines around his eyes and mouth suggest age and experience.
The artist has employed a limited palette dominated by earthy tones – browns, ochres, and muted reds – which contribute to a feeling of somber realism. The application of pastel is loose and expressive, with visible strokes that capture the texture of skin and hair. A long braid hangs down his left shoulder, meticulously rendered with individual strands. His hair at the crown is pulled back in a distinctive style.
The artist’s handling of light emphasizes the planes of the face, creating subtle modeling and highlighting features such as the prominent nose and strong jawline. The background is indistinct, allowing the focus to remain entirely on the subjects countenance. There is an intentional lack of detail in the surrounding areas, which serves to isolate him within the composition.
Subtly, the portrait seems to aim for a respectful representation rather than a stereotypical depiction. While the man’s features are rendered with accuracy, there is no attempt at romanticization or exoticism. The directness of his gaze suggests an invitation to encounter and understand, hinting at a desire to portray him as an individual with inherent worth. The title, “Crooked Nose, Skawakikotayo Cree Indian (Hobbema, Alberta) 1953,” provides further context, grounding the portrait in a specific time and place while also acknowledging his personal name. This combination of formal designation and individual identity suggests a complex negotiation between cultural representation and human recognition.