206 Recounting the Coup

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Winning Bid Undisclosed
This item SOLD at 2015 Apr 11 @ 14:36UTC-7 : PDT/MST
Category Western Americana
Auction Currency USD
Start Price NA
Estimated at 100,000.00 - 200,000.00 USD
Recounting the Coup
Artist: Terpning, HowardDate of Birth: b. 1927
Medium: Mixed Media
Dimensions: 30 x 34 inches
Signed: Signed lower right/CA and dated 1984

Of Recounting the Coup, Elmer Kelton writes: French-Canadians began use of the word ÒcoupÓ to describe the IndiansÕ method for keeping score of a warriorÕs daring deeds. The more coups struck against enemies, the higher the honor. The greater the danger involved, the greater the coup. To touch a fallen enemy with oneÕs hand, bow, rifle, or coup stick, especially if that enemy was still alive and able to fight, was the greatest feat of all. Stealing into an enemy camp at night and taking horses staked beside a warriorÕs tepee required special courage and earned exceptional prestige.