Bi-law-xa-she-te Ba/Bilish (Hold Me, Pray, Woman Series IV)
Limited edition photolithographic print on paper • Kevin Red Star (Native American/Apsaalooka, Crow, born 1943)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Native American Art; Neo-Indigenous Realism
Medium & Technique
Offset lithography from an original charcoal and pencil drawing; utilizes fine-scale tonal rendering and high-contrast lighting (chiaroscuro effects).
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1980-1995)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 30 inches; landscape orientation, professionally matted and framed.
Subject Description
A portrait of two Native American women in traditional buckskin and fringed garments, reclining and embracing. The work explores intimate human connection and Crow cultural identity through stylized realism and dramatic lighting against a dark, negative-space background.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good condition; the print appears stable with vibrant contrast, though housed under non-archival conditions that may cause future acid burn.
Estimated Market Value
$600 - $1,200 USD
Auction Estimate
$400 - $800 USD
Provenance History
Numbered 898/960 in the upper left; signature of Kevin Red Star and title inscription in the lower margins. Derived from a retail gallery market for Western/Indigenous art.
Art Historical Significance
Kevin Red Star is a seminal figure in contemporary Native American art, known for bridging the gap between historical Apsaalooka (Crow) traditions and modern stylistic approaches. This print belongs to his acclaimed 'Woman Series', focusing on the strength and spirituality of indigenous women.
Notable Features
Includes specific title in both Crow and English; hand-numbered edition 898/960; includes artist's signature in the plate/stone and likely hand-signed in pencil as per standard for this series.
Condition Issues
Visible reflection in glazing suggests possible non-UV protected glass; slight undulation of the paper support; potential light toning to the margins based on the mat board's age.
Conservation Recommendations
Re-frame using acid-free archival matting and UV-protective Museum Glass to prevent fading and paper degradation. Keep away from direct sunlight.
Collector Notes
Hold me