Ds-Nicholas de Grandmaison 19 Nicholas De Grandmaison

Here we observe a portrait study executed in pastel on paper. The subject is an older man, presumably Indigenous based on his features and adornments. He is positioned against a neutral, light-colored background that allows the focus to remain squarely on him.
The artist has employed a loose, expressive technique; lines are visible and strokes are evident, contributing to a sense of immediacy and capturing a fleeting impression rather than striving for photographic realism. The face is rendered with careful attention to detail, particularly around the eyes and mouth, which convey a quiet dignity and perhaps a touch of melancholy. Subtle shading defines the planes of his face, suggesting age and experience etched into his features.
The man wears what appears to be traditional clothing: a light-colored shirt or tunic, and a necklace of red beads that draws the eye downward. He also sports earrings, adding another layer of cultural significance. His hair is pulled back from his face, revealing high cheekbones and a weathered complexion. The artist has used a muted palette dominated by browns, creams, and subtle grays, with the red of the necklace providing a striking contrast.
The composition is straightforward; the man’s head and shoulders fill most of the frame, creating an intimate feel. His gaze is directed slightly off-center, suggesting introspection or perhaps a sense of detachment from the viewer. The inscription at the bottom indicates a location – “Blood Indian (Glenwood, Alberta) 1949” – which provides contextual information about the subject’s identity and the time of creation.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of cultural preservation and representation. The artists choice to depict this man in such a direct and unidealized manner suggests an attempt at honest portrayal rather than romanticization or exoticism. There is a sense of respect conveyed through the careful rendering of his features and the dignity with which he is presented. The portrait might be interpreted as a record of a specific individual within a community undergoing change, preserving a moment in time and offering a glimpse into a culture that may have been facing pressures from external forces.