Chief Washakie, the legendary Eastern Shoshone leader, is portrayed in this cabinet card by the firm of Baker & Johnston, operating out of Evanston and Rock Springs, Wyoming. The portrait dates to the late nineteenth century, consistent with the mount style and studio imprint, and captures Washakie in his elder years. The image is among the most sought-after formats of Western portraiture, combining a named Indigenous leader with a documented regional studio.

Washakie wears a dark wool suit coat over a light shirt, with a loosely knotted neckerchief at his throat. His long silver hair falls unbound over both shoulders, framing a deeply lined face with a composed, direct gaze. The three-quarter bust composition fills the frame tightly, with a plain studio backdrop behind him.

Washakie (circa 1798 to 1900) led the Eastern Shoshone for decades from the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming. He was known for his diplomatic relationships with U.S. government officials and received a medal from President Ulysses S. Grant. He remained chief until his death and was buried with full military honors at Fort Washakie.

The reverse bears a large ink inscription reading "Washakie, Chief Shoshone Indians," with the initials "E. C. J." below and a pencil notation in the upper right corner reading "Mrs. H. D. Fisk."

From the collection of James Lee Soffer