Powerful studio portrait of the Kiowa chief Stumbling Bear, taken by W.P. Bliss in the 1870s at Fort Sill, Indian Territory. The image captures the dignified leader seated in a studio setting, posed with a bow and an impressive spread of arrows resting across his lap. He wears an elaborate horned feathered headdress adorned with ribbons, fringe-trimmed leggings, and traditional moccasins. His steady gaze and formal presentation reflect both his status and the photographer’s aim to convey the presence of a prominent figure.

The verso bears the distinctive imprint of W.P. Bliss, Fort Sill, Indian Territory, who offered images of “Noted Indians” for sale by the dozen and was one of the earliest photographers to document Native leaders in the Southern Plains following the establishment of Fort Sill in 1869. These Bliss photographs are scarce and highly sought after, especially in this larger cabinet card format.

A rare and compelling image of a prominent Kiowa chief, made during a critical period of forced transition and military oversight in Indian Territory.