The bronze bust of Two Ravens, from the Upper Missouri River series, is a new direction for world renowned sculptor Dave McGary. It depicts the legendary Hidatsa warrior chief, adorned with the symbols of status and wealth accorded his rank, in a new dimension for the artist: the Lifesize Bust.

This powerful bronze stands over 40 inches high to the row of eagle feathers on his head piece, 26 inches in width, 18½ in depth and portrays a man of evident dignity and determination. It is a face filled with resolve, but still a visage of wisdom and a deep compassion for his people. This work shows Dave's remarkable ability to tirelessly research the history of the people and places thereby, establishing an emotional bond with not only his subject but with the viewer as well.

This intricately detailed image offers an unique insight into a way of life from Native American history. Two Ravens' face is painted in the traditional design of the Hidatsa Black Mouth Society which served the nation as a police force and he was headman of the prestigious Dog Society as evidenced by the fan of owl feathers on the back of his head piece. The Dog Soldiers were an elite group of fierce warriors who protected the Hidatsa from their more aggressive neighbors in the region near the mouth of the Knife River in western North Dakota. Around his neck is a roll of otter skin ornamented with early spring bear claws inter-spaced with blue trade beads. The long hair is braided with beads, trade bells and feathers of honor, and smoothed with the exclusive tribal characteristic of bear grease, believed to promote growth. Across his broad chest is a shirt of buckskin richly decorated with paintings of his exploits.

The amazing technical achievement represented in Dave McGary's work is readily apparent in this compelling image of a man of strength and authority, returned to life in bronze to relate a story of this proud people of the American past. As of 1990, there were some 1500 Hidatsa in the United States.

Lifesize Bust Bronze with Patina and Paint,
Edition of 25, Year Cast 2005