Ds-Nicholas de Grandmaison 33 Nicholas De Grandmaison

Here we observe a portrait study rendered in pastel on paper. The subject is an Indigenous man, presented from the chest upwards against a muted, indistinct background. His gaze is directed towards the viewer, conveying a sense of directness and perhaps quiet dignity.
The artist has employed a limited palette dominated by earthy tones – ochres, browns, creams, and touches of lavender – which contribute to a feeling of understated solemnity. The application of pastel appears deliberate, with visible strokes that suggest both texture and movement in the rendering of his hair and facial features. Noticeable is the emphasis on the man’s long, braided hair, falling down his chest; this detail immediately signals cultural significance and likely denotes membership within a specific tribal group.
The face itself displays signs of age – lines etched around the eyes and mouth – suggesting experience and resilience. The artist has captured a subtle asymmetry in the features, lending an authenticity to the portrayal that avoids idealization. A faint blush is visible on his cheeks, adding a touch of vitality to the otherwise restrained color scheme.
Below the image, inscribed text identifies the man as “Riding at the Door, Itsoksi-ksisto-kitopi” and notes Blood Indian (Cardston, Alberta) 1948. This information provides context for understanding the work not merely as a portrait but as an ethnographic record of a specific individual within a particular community. The inclusion of both an English name and what appears to be a Blackfoot name suggests a complex interplay between cultural identities and colonial naming practices.
Subtly, the composition hints at a tension between observation and respect. While the artist’s technique is clearly observational – aiming for accurate representation – the subjects direct gaze establishes a reciprocal relationship with the viewer. The muted background seems to isolate the man, drawing attention solely to his presence and identity. This isolation could be interpreted as an attempt by the artist to honor the individual rather than simply depict him as part of a larger cultural group. Ultimately, the work functions as both a portrait and a document, offering a glimpse into a specific moment in time and a particular cultural context.