This lot features an exceptionally hand-carved Cigar Store Indian. Historically, these carvings would be placed outside of tobacco outlets, signifying to passerby that the establishment sold tobacco products. This contemporary solid wood-carved Cigar Store Indian displays Chief Grey Wolf. He is adorned in a pair of Plains Indians fringed leggings and red breechcloth (breechclout), wearing a turquoise necklace and a turquoise bracelet. This appears to be a Cheyenne Dog Soldier, an Apache or Kiowa warrior chief. Excellent details highlight this carving, and it appears very life-like. The facial features are striking as is the wolf head headpiece. Previous damages appear to have been repaired with natural wood splits and checking exhibited throughout. Cracking and checking of timber is actually a very natural part of the life cycle of wood – even once it's been cut, shaped, and prepared for carving. Statue is in very nice and preserved condition. The paint colors are still strong. No other obvious marring noted. Measures 18"W x 24"L x 71.5"H including wood base. It appears to have been carved from one solid wood log.*