John K. Hillers Paintings & Artwork for Sale | John K. Hillers Art Value Price Guide

Jul. 17, 2026
Hillers, John K. (1843-1925). Photograph of Cheyenne warrior, Little Bear. Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875.
Est: $500 - $700
Hillers, John K. (1843-1925). Photograph of Cheyenne warrior, Little Bear. Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875. 9 1/4 x 7 1/8 in. albumen photograph on original cardstock mount with the following printed in the top margin, "Department of the Interior / Geological and Geographical Survey of the Territories, Second Division, J.W. Powell, Geologist in charge." Uncredited but known to have been taken by John K. Hillers. Matted and framed for display, 16 1/2 x 13 in. Light, even toning to print. Not examined outside frame. The photograph depicts Little Bear, a Cheyenne warrior, also known as, Na-ku-has-kit, wearing a breastplate and holding a bow and quiver, posed among rocks at the Grand Council in Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 10 May 1875. In connection with John Wesley Powell's ethnographic survey work, Hillers took a series of photographs at the Grand Council. Accurately documenting his work, he noted, "I found six Cheyenne who had just left the warpath. I took them among the rocks and set them up as food for my camera." His diary records the specific date. Little Bear fought a brave rearguard action in the face of Colonel John Chivington's troops at Sand Creek on 29 November 1864, and his heroic actions enabled many Cheyenne women and children to escape the massacre. This lot is located in Chicago.
Freeman’s
Jul. 17, 2026
Hillers, John Karl (1843-1925), photographer. Zuni Girl. [New Mexico], 1879.
Est: $400 - $600
Hillers, John Karl (1843-1925), photographer. Zuni Girl. [New Mexico], 1879. 120 x 95 mm silver albumen print. Framed and matted. Overall, 14 x 12 1/2 in. Old folds. Not examined out of frame. Provenance: Forbes Library, Northampton, MA (institutional stamp on verso with accompanying date July 19, 1902); previously exhibited Amon Carter Museum of Art, "Masterworks of American Photography" exhibition, 2012. John Karl Hillers was a German-American government photographer who learned his craft while working as an assistant to the John Wesley Powell's expedition photographers during Powell's second expedition down the Colorado River in 1871. In 1879 he accompanied James Stevenson's expedition to New Mexico, during which the present photograph was taken. [With]: Hillers. Zuni Water Carrier. [New Mexico, 1879]. 266 x 203 mm albumen print, affixed to larger mount. Overall, 14 x 11 in. Spotting. This lot is located in Chicago.
Freeman’s
Jul. 17, 2026
Hillers, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. A group of 7 photographs of California, Utah, and Arizona. Ca 1870s.
Est: $1,000 - $1,500
Hillers, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. A group of 7 photographs of California, Utah, and Arizona. Ca 1870s. 7 albumen silver prints, unmounted, each approx. 12 1/2 x 9 1/2 in. Four prints are titled in the negative and two are credited to John K. Hillers, although all were taken by the photographer while working with the US Geological Survey under John Wesley Powell during the 1870s. Provenance: Heritage, Philippe Halsman and Icons of the Twentieth Century: The Photography Collection of Frederich Voelker, 7 November 2020, Lots 11167-11173. Scenes include: Little Fire Hole Falls, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, ca 1870s. -- The Domes, Rio Virgen, Utah, 1872. -- Royal Arches and Washington Dome, Merced River, Yosemite Valley, 1872. -- Three Graces, Yosemite Valley, California, ca 1872. -- [Z]ion's Peak, Rio Virgen, Utah, 1873. -- Ma-kun-to-wip Valley, Zion National Park, Utah, ca 1874. -- View In de Chelly Canyon, Looking West, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona, ca 1879. Together, 7 albumen silver prints. Property from the Collection of Fritz Voelker, Denver, CO This lot is located in Philadelphia.
Freeman’s
May. 29, 2026
JOHN K. HILLERS (AMERICAN 1843-1925)
Est: $200 - $300
John K. Hillers (American 1843-1925), East Fork de Chelley (sic) River, Arizona. Albumen print mounted onto card. 13 1/2" x 9 7/8". Overall size in frame 19" x 16 1/2".
Copake Auction Inc.
May. 02, 2026
John K. Hillers Myself in the Water
Est: $25 - $50
Don D. Fowler, 1989.
Davis Brothers Auction
Oct. 24, 2025
HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. John K. Two photographs of Cheyenne warrior, Little Bear. Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875.
Est: $1,000 - $2,000
HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. John K. Two photographs of Cheyenne warrior, Little Bear. Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875. 2 albumen photographs, approx. 9 x 7 in., on original 15 x 13 in. cardstock mounts, uncredited but known to have been taken by John K. Hillers. The photographs depict Little Bear, a Cheyenne warrior, also known as, Na-ku-has-kit, wearing a breastplate and holding a bow and quiver, posed among rocks at the Grand Council in Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 10 May 1875. In connection with John Wesley Powell's ethnographic survey work, Hillers took a series of photographs at the Grand Council. Accurately documenting his work, he noted, "I found six Cheyenne who had just left the warpath. I took them among the rocks and set them up as food for my camera." His diary records the specific date. Little Bear fought a brave rearguard action in the face of Colonel John Chivington's troops at Sand Creek on 29 November 1864, and his heroic actions enabled many Cheyenne women and children to escape the massacre. Provenance: Ex Kramer Gallery Collection; Cowan's, Historic Americana, 9 June 2005, Lot 1306 (one of the two photographs offered here). The Larry Ness Collection of Native American Photography This lot is located in Cincinnati.
Freeman’s | Hindman
Oct. 24, 2025
HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. Photograph of an Osage warrior holding a tomahawk. Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875.
Est: $700 - $1,000
HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. Photograph of an Osage warrior holding a tomahawk. Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875. Approx. 9 1/4 x 7 in. albumen photograph, on original 15 x 13 in. mount, uncredited but known to have been taken by John K. Hillers. The subject poses among rocks at the Grand Council in Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 10 May 1875. In connection with John Wesley Powell's ethnographic survey work, Hillers took a series of photographs at the Grand Council. Accurately documenting his work, he noted, "I found six Cheyenne who had just left the warpath. I took them among the rocks and set them up as food for my camera." His diary records the specific date. Provenance: Ex Kramer Gallery Collection; Cowan's, Historic Americana, 9 June 2005, Lot 1305. The Larry Ness Collection of Native American Photography This lot is located in Cincinnati.
Freeman’s | Hindman
Oct. 23, 2025
HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. A group of 7 photographs of California, Utah, and Arizona. Ca 1870s.
Est: $2,000 - $3,000
HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. A group of 7 photographs of California, Utah, and Arizona. Ca 1870s. 7 albumen silver prints, unmounted, each approx. 12 1/2 x 9 1/2 in. Four prints are titled in the negative and two are credited to John K. Hillers, although all were taken by the photographer while working with the US Geological Survey under John Wesley Powell during the 1870s. Scenes include: Little Fire Hole Falls, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, ca 1870s. -- The Domes, Rio Virgen, Utah, 1872. -- Royal Arches and Washington Dome, Merced River, Yosemite Valley, 1872. -- Three Graces, Yosemite Valley, California, ca 1872. -- [Z]ion's Peak, Rio Virgen, Utah, 1873. -- Ma-kun-to-wip Valley, Zion National Park, Utah, ca 1874. -- View In de Chelly Canyon, Looking West, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona, ca 1879. Together, 7 albumen silver prints. Provenance: Heritage, Philippe Halsman and Icons of the Twentieth Century: The Photography Collection of Frederich Voelker, 7 November 2020, Lots 11167-11173. This lot is located in Cincinnati.
Freeman’s | Hindman
Sep. 18, 2025
John K. Hillers, Pueblo de San Ildefonso, N.M., ca. 1880
Est: $600 - $900
John K. Hillers 1843 - 1925 Pueblo de San Ildefonso, N.M., ca. 1880 albumen on original mount printed in negative lower left: PUEBLO DE SAN ILDEFONSO, N.M. printed in negative lower right: Hillers Photo
Santa Fe Art Auction
Sep. 18, 2025
John K. Hillers, Ruins in Mummy Cave, Canon del Muerte, Arizona, ca. 1873
Est: $600 - $900
John K. Hillers 1843 - 1925 Ruins in Mummy Cave, Canon del Muerte, Arizona, ca. 1873 albumen on original mount printed in negative lower left: ANCIENT RUINS. CANON DE CHELLY.
Santa Fe Art Auction
Nov. 08, 2024
John K. Hillers, Dancers Rock in Walpi, ca. 1879
Est: $2,500 - $3,500
John K. Hillers (1843 - 1925) Dancers Rock in Walpi, ca. 1879 albumen, mammoth plate
Santa Fe Art Auction
Sep. 18, 2024
John K. Hillers, Oraibi, ca. 1873
Est: $800 - $1,200
John K. Hillers (1843 - 1925) Oraibi, ca. 1873 albumen
Santa Fe Art Auction
Sep. 18, 2024
John K. Hillers, Walpi, Mokitown, Arizona, ca. 1872
Est: $1,200 - $1,800
John K. Hillers (1843 - 1925) Walpi, Mokitown, Arizona, ca. 1872 albumen in negative lower left: WOLPI, MOKITOWN, ARIZ in negative lower right: Hillers, Photo.
Santa Fe Art Auction
Nov. 30, 2023
[WESTERN AMERICANA]. HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. A group of 104 Powell Expedition stereoviews, highlighted by a view of the photographer's camera.
Est: $1,000 - $2,000
[WESTERN AMERICANA]. HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. A group of 104 Powell Expedition stereoviews, highlighted by a view of the photographer's camera. 6 x 4 in. stereoviews, mostly scenic expedition views, on trimmed cardstock mounts (overall good to very good condition, several with rich tonality, some with soiling; corner and edge wear to mounts, some with surface residue). Rectos feature "US Topographical and Geological Survey of the Colorado River of the West, By J.W. Powell and A.H. Thompson" imprint. Most versos with applied paper labels including the photographer's credit, image number, and title. Some labels also include the "Department of the Interior, US Geographical and Geological Survey of the Territories" imprint and 1875 date. Several versos also include applied paper label from publisher J.F. Jarvis, Washington, DC. The collection is highlighted by No. 21. Mouth of the Narrows. Credited to John K. Hillers, the view shows the Rio Virgen, with a large view camera on a tripod, with various plate boxes on the ground, on the opposite side of the river. Additional images of note include: A lone Mexican (from Views on Green River). -- Lower-Pa-Ro-Gunt (from Views on Kanab Creek). -- Grand Canyon of the Colorado. -- A Canon (from Views on Winslow Creek). -- Ready to Start (from Views on Winslow Creek). -- Mary's Veil in Bullion Canon (from Views on the Sever River). -- Roaring Fall - near view (from Views on Corral Creek). -- Side Wall (from Views on Winslow Creek). -- Lake on the Back of an Ancient Moraine (from Views in Summit Valley). -- The Shadow (from Views on the Colorado River). -- Procession of Stone-Jacket Men (from Views on the Kai-Par-O-Wits Plateau). -- The Falls (from Views on Boulder Creek). -- A Mountain Stream (from Views on Boulder Creek). -- At the Water-Pocket (from Views on the Kai-Par-O-Wits Plateau). -- Firs (from Views on Winslow Creek). -- The Poised Rock (from Views on the Colorado River). -- Mountain Creek (Red Canon Series) (heavy soiling on verso). -- And 86 other stereoviews featuring landscapes and landmarks. Together, 104 stereoviews from the US Geological and Geographical Survey of the Territories headed by J.W. Powell. This lot is located in Cincinnati.
Hindman
Mar. 15, 2023
John Karl Hillers, Method of Transportation and Pack Animals, Zuni Pueblo, ca. 1879
Est: $400 - $600
John Karl Hillers (1843 - 1925) Method of Transportation and Pack Animals, Zuni Pueblo, ca. 1879 silver gelatin photograph
Santa Fe Art Auction
Mar. 04, 2023
John K. Hillers Expedition Photograph E. O Beaman
Est: $2,200 - $3,200
Featured in this lot is this framed photograph for the John K. Hillers Expedition of the Unitah Utah Camp photographed by E.O. Beaman circa 1871. The photograph features a Ute family, Sal-ar and his family to be exact, in Utah standing outside of their home a tee pee displaying their all their belongings outside of the tent. The photograph features its original tag from its last sale. This photograph was taken by E.O. Beaman on an expedition he was embarking on with a Major Powell and also employing Jack Hiller as they embarked on a journey up through the Arizona Territory and up into Utah. John Karl Hillers was an American government photographer. Hillers came to the United States in 1852. He was a policeman and then a soldier in the American Civil War, first with the New York Naval Brigade, then in the army, he re-enlisted after the war and served with the Western garrisons until 1870. The condition of this framed photograph is good with no obvious signs of damage and shows good overall condition. The measurements of this framed photograph is 14 3/4" x 11 3/4". Provenance: From the renowned Sundog Fine Art Bozeman, Montana collection and collected by Bruce VanLandingham. Bruce VanLandingham was a pillar in the American Indian collecting community and a respected expert. Along with being an avid collector, Bruce also was the sole owner of Sundog Fine Art Gallery in Bozeman, which was both part museum and gallery.
North American Auction Company
Jan. 28, 2023
John K. Hillers Expedition Photograph E. O Beaman
Est: $2,200 - $3,200
Featured in this lot is this framed photograph for the John K. Hillers Expedition of the Unitah Utah Camp photographed by E.O. Beaman circa 1871. The photograph features a Ute family, Sal-ar and his family to be exact, in Utah standing outside of their home a tee pee displaying their all their belongings outside of the tent. The photograph features its original tag from its last sale. This photograph was taken by E.O. Beaman on an expedition he was embarking on with a Major Powell and also employing Jack Hiller as they embarked on a journey up through the Arizona Territory and up into Utah. John Karl Hillers was an American government photographer. Hillers came to the United States in 1852. He was a policeman and then a soldier in the American Civil War, first with the New York Naval Brigade, then in the army, he re-enlisted after the war and served with the Western garrisons until 1870. The condition of this framed photograph is good with no obvious signs of damage and shows good overall condition. The measurements of this framed photograph is 14 3/4" x 11 3/4". Provenance: From the renowned Sundog Fine Art Bozeman, Montana collection and collected by Bruce VanLandingham. Bruce VanLandingham was a pillar in the American Indian collecting community and a respected expert. Along with being an avid collector, Bruce also was the sole owner of Sundog Fine Art Gallery in Bozeman, which was both part museum and gallery.
North American Auction Company
Oct. 22, 2022
John K. Hillers Expedition Photograph E. O Beaman
Est: $2,200 - $3,200
Featured in this lot is this framed photograph for the John K. Hillers Expedition of the Unitah Utah Camp photographed by E.O. Beaman circa 1871. The photograph features a Ute family, Sal-ar and his family to be exact, in Utah standing outside of their home a tee pee displaying their all their belongings outside of the tent. The photograph features its original tag from its last sale. This photograph was taken by E.O. Beaman on an expedition he was embarking on with a Major Powell and also employing Jack Hiller as they embarked on a journey up through the Arizona Territory and up into Utah. John Karl Hillers was an American government photographer. Hillers came to the United States in 1852. He was a policeman and then a soldier in the American Civil War, first with the New York Naval Brigade, then in the army, he re-enlisted after the war and served with the Western garrisons until 1870. The condition of this framed photograph is good with no obvious signs of damage and shows good overall condition. The measurements of this framed photograph is 14 3/4" x 11 3/4". Provenance: From the renowned Sundog Fine Art Bozeman, Montana collection and collected by Bruce VanLandingham. Bruce VanLandingham was a pillar in the American Indian collecting community and a respected expert. Along with being an avid collector, Bruce also was the sole owner of Sundog Fine Art Gallery in Bozeman, which was both part museum and gallery.
North American Auction Company
Jun. 21, 2022
[NATIVE AMERICANS]. HILLERS, John Karl. (1843-1925), photographer. Governor of Santa Clara. Ca 1879-1880.
Est: $500 - $700
[NATIVE AMERICANS]. HILLERS, John Karl. (1843-1925), photographer. Governor of Santa Clara. Ca 1879-1880. 7 3/8 x 9 1/8 in. albumen photograph on 8 x 10 in. mount (some toning, light soiling to print and mount; some corner wear to mount). Titled in the negative, lower left, and manuscript credit to Hillers on mount verso.
Hindman
Jun. 21, 2022
[WESTERN AMERICANA]. HILLERS, John Karl (1843-1925) & BEAMAN, Elias Ocott (active 1870s), photographers. A set of 55 Powell Survey stereoviews from the series Indians of the Colorado Valley. Various publishers, ca 1874.
Est: $5,000 - $7,000
[WESTERN AMERICANA]. HILLERS, John Karl (1843-1925) & BEAMAN, Elias Ocott (active 1870s), photographers. A set of 55 Powell Survey stereoviews from the series Indians of the Colorado Valley. Various publishers, ca 1874. A collection of 55 ethnographic stereoviews from a series Indians of the Colorado River from the J.W. Powell Surveys for the US Topographical and Geological Survey of the Colorado Valley. All images by John "Jack" Hillers, with the exception of #39-40, & 75 by Elias Ocott Beaman. Various publishers: Washington DC: J.F. Jarvis (#2-5, 11, 13, 18-21, 23, 28, 34, 39-41, 46, 53, 57, 60, 70-72, 75, 77, 82, 85); New York: William B. Holmes (43, 58); New York: H. Robes & Co. (69); others without publisher statement. Each mounted on yellow cardstock mount with "U.S. Topographic and Geological Survey of the Colorado River of the West by J.W. Powell and A.H. Thompson" printed on the recto in red, except for #14, 32, 90, 104, & 105 on blank yellow mounts, and #9 & 17 on yellow mounts from a different series ("Views among the Rocky Mountains of Colorado."). Three (#7, 14, 80) without printed labels to versos. Six with verso labels marked "Department of the Interior, U.S. Geographical and Geological Survey of the Rocky Mountain Region, J.W. Powell, Geologist in charge," (#9, 17, 32, 90, 104, 105), corresponding largely to those with alternate mounts. Many with exceptional tonality, occasional fading, wear to mounts. Provenance: Iroquois Indian Variety Store, Niagra Falls, NY: 27, 48, 54, 73. John Wesley Powell (1834-1902) and his assistant Almon Harris Thompson (1839-1906) conducted several geographic surveys down the Green and Colorado rivers in Wyoming, and Utah from 1871 through 1874. Though the project was geologic in scope, the researchers had frequent interactions with the local Native Americans captured in these images. Most were taken by John Karl Hillers who was originally hired as a boathand for Powell's second expedition in 1871. He began to assist survey photographers E.O. Beaman (#39-40, 75) and later James Fennemore. By the next season in 1872, Hillers had become the expedition's chief photographer. He continued to explore the West working for the Bureau of Ethnology, the Geological Survey, and the USGS, assembling nearly 23,000 negatives until his retirement in 1900. Complete list of sub-series and stereoviews: Kai-vav-its, a tribe of the Pai Utes living on the Kaibab Plateau near the Grand Canon of the Colorado in Northern Arizona: 2 Group of Men in Full Dress. -- 3 Chu-ar-ru-um-peak and his Friends. -- 4 Chu-ar-ru-um-peak Shooting a Rabbit. -- 5 U-wa, Wife of Chu-ar-ru-um-peak, Chief of the Kai-vav-its. -- 6 U-wa on a Rock. -- [7 Woman Grinding]. (Lacking printed label, period inscription "indian lodge grinding meal"). -- 8 Ku-ra-tu. (Period inscription "John S. Davis.") -- 9 The Empty Cradle. -- 11 Ta-vo-kok-i, or The Circle Dance. (Summer Costume). -- 13 The Basket Maker. -- [14 Group of Women in Full Dress]. (Lacking printed label, title from period ink inscription to verso; additional inscription "A.S. Hooker No. 545"). -- 17 Ka-ni-ga, The Camp Ground. -- 18 Pile of Little Indians. -- 19 Game of Wolf and Deer. -- 20 "One-little Two-little Three-little Injuns." -- 21 The Water Carriers. -- 23 The Mother. -- 25 Mounted Indians. -- 27 Won-si-vu, or Young Antelope. -- 28 Won-si-vu and Ku-ra-tu. -- 30 Ku-ra-tu at Rest. -- 32 The Necklace. -- 34 The Game of Ni-aung-pi-kai. -- 39 In Council. -- 40 "At Home." U-ai Nu-ints, a tribe of Indians living on the Rio Virgen, a tributary of the Colorado in Southern Utah: 41 Moak Shin-au-av, Chief of the U-ai Nu-ints. -- 43 Nu-nu-shi-unt, The Dreamer. -- 46 Mo-kwi-uk and his Daughter. -- 48 Mon-su and Su-vu-it. Mo-a-pa-ri-ats, a tribe of Indians inhabiting the Valley of the Mo-a-pa, a tributary of the Rio Virgen in Southern Nevada: 53 Wu-nav-ai Gathering Seeds -- 54 Tau-um-pu-gaip, Sub-Chief of the Mo-a-pa-ri-ats. -- 57 "Five and Three are Eight." -- 58 Met on the Road. -- 60 Cutting Fringe. Nu-a-gun-tits, a tribe of Indians living at the Ve-gas or Meadows in Southwestern Nevada: 69 E-nu-ints-i-gaip, or One of the Ancients. -- 70 Two "Old Boys." -- 71 The Old Gamblers -- 72 Ka-ni -- 73 Ka-ni sleeping (Printed label from Kai-vav-its, title in contemporary ink inscription). U-in-ta Utes, a tribe of Indians living in U-in-ta Valley on the Western Slope of the Wasatch Mountains, in Utah: 75 Indian Lodge. -- 77 Breaking Up Camp. Shi-ni-mos: [80 Terraced Houses in Oraibi]. (Modern pencil inscription with title to verso). -- 82 The Chiefs House, in the Town of Oraibi. -- 85 House of Tal-ti, Chief of the Council, in the town of Oraibi. U-in-tats, Living in the U-in-ta Valley, on the Western Slope of the Wasatch Mountains, in Utah: 90 Home of Ta-vah-puts. -- 92 Nau-no-kwits and Ku-ri-en. -- 93 Tau-ruv (wife of Won-ro-an) in Full Dress. -- 94 Tau-ruv sitting. -- 100 Indian Boy and his Dog. -- 104 The Maiden. -- 105 Indian Girl on Horseback. -- 106 Babe in Cradle. -- 111 The Watch-Tower. -- 115 Met at the Spring. -- 116 The present of a Necklace.
Hindman
Nov. 15, 2021
[NATIVE AMERICANS] -- [WESTERN AMERICANA]. HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. Ma-nu-ni, All of the tribe; with Mormon and Gentile Spectators. Washington DC: J.F. Jarvis, ca 1871-1874.
Est: $800 - $1,000
[NATIVE AMERICANS] -- [WESTERN AMERICANA]. HILLERS, John K. (1843-1925), photographer. Ma-nu-ni, All of the tribe; with Mormon and Gentile Spectators. Washington DC: J.F. Jarvis, ca 1871-1874. 6 1/16 x 3 15/16 in. albumen stereoview on yellow cardstock mount (light scuff to lower edge; mount corners docked and top edge trimmed). Series title printed to mount recto. Paper labels with image title, subseries, photographer, publisher, and additional information affixed to verso. Red ink inscriptions form a later hand on recto and verso. An outdoor group portrait of a large congregation of Native Americans seated and standing among a few trees, bluffs visible in the background. A few white subjects, identified in the title as both Mormons and Gentiles, are included in the crowd. John Wesley Powell (1834-1902) and his assistant Almon Harris Thompson (1839-1906) conducted several geographic surveys down the Green and Colorado rivers in Wyoming, and Utah from 1871 through 1874. Though the project was geologic in scope, the researchers had frequent interactions with the local Native Americans captured in these images. Most were taken by John Karl Hillers who was originally hired as a boathand for Powell's second expedition in 1871. He began to assist survey photographers E.O. Beaman and later James Fennemore. By the next season in 1872, Hillers had become the expedition's chief photographer. He continued to explore the West working for the Bureau of Ethnology, the Geological Survey, and the USGS, assembling nearly 23,000 negatives until his retirement in 1900.
Hindman
Nov. 15, 2021
[WESTERN AMERICANA]. HILLERS, John Karl (1843-1925) & BEAMAN, Elias Ocott (active 1870s), photographers. A set of 55 Powell Survey stereoviews from the series Indians of the Colorado Valley. Various publishers, ca 1874.
Est: $8,000 - $10,000
[WESTERN AMERICANA]. HILLERS, John Karl (1843-1925) & BEAMAN, Elias Ocott (active 1870s), photographers. A set of 55 Powell Survey stereoviews from the series Indians of the Colorado Valley. Various publishers, ca 1874. A collection of 55 ethnographic stereoviews from a series Indians of the Colorado River from the J.W. Powell Surveys for the US Topographical and Geological Survey of the Colorado Valley. All images by John "Jack" Hillers, with the exception of #39-40, & 75 by Elias Ocott Beaman. Various publishers: Washington DC: J.F. Jarvis (#2-5, 11, 13, 18-21, 23, 28, 34, 39-41, 46, 53, 57, 60, 70-72, 75, 77, 82, 85); New York: William B. Holmes (43, 58); New York: H. Robes & Co. (69); others without publisher statement. Each mounted on yellow cardstock mount with "U.S. Topographic and Geological Survey of the Colorado River of the West by J.W. Powell and A.H. Thompson" printed on the recto in red, except for #14, 32, 90, 104, & 105 on blank yellow mounts, and #9 & 17 on yellow mounts from a different series ("Views among the Rocky Mountains of Colorado."). Three (#7, 14, 80) without printed labels to versos. Six with verso labels marked "Department of the Interior, U.S. Geographical and Geological Survey of the Rocky Mountain Region, J.W. Powell, Geologist in charge," (#9, 17, 32, 90, 104, 105), corresponding largely to those with alternate mounts. Many with exceptional tonality, occasional fading, wear to mounts. Provenance: Iroquois Indian Variety Store, Niagra Falls, NY: 27, 48, 54, 73. John Wesley Powell (1834-1902) and his assistant Almon Harris Thompson (1839-1906) conducted several geographic surveys down the Green and Colorado rivers in Wyoming, and Utah from 1871 through 1874. Though the project was geologic in scope, the researchers had frequent interactions with the local Native Americans captured in these images. Most were taken by John Karl Hillers who was originally hired as a boathand for Powell's second expedition in 1871. He began to assist survey photographers E.O. Beaman (#39-40, 75) and later James Fennemore. By the next season in 1872, Hillers had become the expedition's chief photographer. He continued to explore the West working for the Bureau of Ethnology, the Geological Survey, and the USGS, assembling nearly 23,000 negatives until his retirement in 1900. Complete list of sub-series and stereoviews: Kai-vav-its, a tribe of the Pai Utes living on the Kaibab Plateau near the Grand Canon of the Colorado in Northern Arizona: 2 Group of Men in Full Dress. -- 3 Chu-ar-ru-um-peak and his Friends. -- 4 Chu-ar-ru-um-peak Shooting a Rabbit. -- 5 U-wa, Wife of Chu-ar-ru-um-peak, Chief of the Kai-vav-its. -- 6 U-wa on a Rock. -- [7 Woman Grinding]. (Lacking printed label, period inscription "indian lodge grinding meal"). -- 8 Ku-ra-tu. (Period inscription "John S. Davis.") -- 9 The Empty Cradle. -- 11 Ta-vo-kok-i, or The Circle Dance. (Summer Costume). -- 13 The Basket Maker. -- [14 Group of Women in Full Dress]. (Lacking printed label, title from period ink inscription to verso; additional inscription "A.S. Hooker No. 545"). -- 17 Ka-ni-ga, The Camp Ground. -- 18 Pile of Little Indians. -- 19 Game of Wolf and Deer. -- 20 "One-little Two-little Three-little Injuns." -- 21 The Water Carriers. -- 23 The Mother. -- 25 Mounted Indians. -- 27 Won-si-vu, or Young Antelope. -- 28 Won-si-vu and Ku-ra-tu. -- 30 Ku-ra-tu at Rest. -- 32 The Necklace. -- 34 The Game of Ni-aung-pi-kai. -- 39 In Council. -- 40 "At Home." U-ai Nu-ints, a tribe of Indians living on the Rio Virgen, a tributary of the Colorado in Southern Utah: 41 Moak Shin-au-av, Chief of the U-ai Nu-ints. -- 43 Nu-nu-shi-unt, The Dreamer. -- 46 Mo-kwi-uk and his Daughter. -- 48 Mon-su and Su-vu-it. Mo-a-pa-ri-ats, a tribe of Indians inhabiting the Valley of the Mo-a-pa, a tributary of the Rio Virgen in Southern Nevada: 53 Wu-nav-ai Gathering Seeds -- 54 Tau-um-pu-gaip, Sub-Chief of the Mo-a-pa-ri-ats. -- 57 "Five and Three are Eight." -- 58 Met on the Road. -- 60 Cutting Fringe. Nu-a-gun-tits, a tribe of Indians living at the Ve-gas or Meadows in Southwestern Nevada: 69 E-nu-ints-i-gaip, or One of the Ancients. -- 70 Two "Old Boys." -- 71 The Old Gamblers -- 72 Ka-ni -- 73 Ka-ni sleeping (Printed label from Kai-vav-its, title in contemporary ink inscription). U-in-ta Utes, a tribe of Indians living in U-in-ta Valley on the Western Slope of the Wasatch Mountains, in Utah: 75 Indian Lodge. -- 77 Breaking Up Camp. Shi-ni-mos: [80 Terraced Houses in Oraibi]. (Modern pencil inscription with title to verso). -- 82 The Chiefs House, in the Town of Oraibi. -- 85 House of Tal-ti, Chief of the Council, in the town of Oraibi. U-in-tats, Living in the U-in-ta Valley, on the Western Slope of the Wasatch Mountains, in Utah: 90 Home of Ta-vah-puts. -- 92 Nau-no-kwits and Ku-ri-en. -- 93 Tau-ruv (wife of Won-ro-an) in Full Dress. -- 94 Tau-ruv sitting. -- 100 Indian Boy and his Dog. -- 104 The Maiden. -- 105 Indian Girl on Horseback. -- 106 Babe in Cradle. -- 111 The Watch-Tower. -- 115 Met at the Spring. -- 116 The present of a Necklace.
Hindman
May. 19, 2021
* A group of 5 large albumen print stereoviews by John Karl Hillers (1843-1925) Native Americans
Est: £200 - £300
* Native Americans. A group of 5 large albumen print stereoviews by John Karl Hillers (1843-1925), taken during the Second Powell expedition, circa 1871, from the Department of the Interior Indians of Colorado Valley series, no.2 Group of Men in Full Dress, no.3 Chu-ai-um-peak and his friends, (a little damage with surface loss to left image), no.17 Ka-ni-ga - The Camp Ground and no.27 Won-Si-Vu or Young Antelope, the fifth stereoview from the Views of Rio Virgen series, no.27 Head of the Narrows, all images 11 x 7.5cm, mounted on oversized yellow cabinet card mounts with printed paper labels to versos, together with Han & Underwood stereoview of an Esquimau mother and infant and pet wolf on the deck of a steamer, 1902, plus 2 diapositive lantern slides of Native Americans in traditional dress, early twentieth century, the first with printed label of James Buncle of Edinburgh, showing 2 full length figures, the second showing a seated chief with white china ink lettering to lower edge, each 8 x 8cm Qty: (8)
Dominic Winter Auctions
Jun. 11, 2020
JOHN K. HILLERS (1843-1925) Governors of Zuni.
Est: $1,500 - $2,500
JOHN K. HILLERS (1843-1925) Governors of Zuni. Albumen print, the image measuring 9 1/2x12 inches (24.1x30.5 cm.), the sheet slightly larger, the mount 16x20 inches (40.6x50.8 cm.), with Hillers' credit and title in the negative, and the notations Smithsonian Institution Bureau of Ethnology printed on mount recto. 1879
Swann Auction Galleries
May. 02, 2019
John K. Hillers Image 7 1/8 x 9 1/2 inches
Est: $500 - $700
John K. Hillers (american, 1843-1925) Method of Transportation and Pack Animals, Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico, 1879 albumen photograph Image 7 1/8 x 9 1/2 inches
Hindman
Dec. 13, 2018
HILLERS, JOHN K. (1843-1925) Hu-ni-wa-ta-nist. Feathered Wolf-Cheyenne, 1880s. Albumen print on original gray card mount wit...
Est: $600 - $900
HILLERS, JOHN K. (1843-1925) Hu-ni-wa-ta-nist. Feathered Wolf-Cheyenne, 1880s. Albumen print on original gray card mount with printed gold frame, with the "Department of the Interior, Geological and Geographical Survey of the Territories. Second Division" imprint, 9 1/4 x 7 3/8 inches (235 x 187 mm), titled at the foot in ink. Image generally without defect, some minor toning and wear to the card mount. Hillers was with the John Wesley Powell survey of the Rocky Mountain region, during which he took some superb images. C
DOYLE Auctioneers & Appraisers
Oct. 18, 2018
JOHN HILLERS (1843-1925) View in de Chelley Canyon, Looking East, Arizona * The Dome, Rio Virgen, Utah.
Est: $2,000 - $3,000
JOHN HILLERS (1843-1925) View in de Chelley Canyon, Looking East, Arizona * The Dome, Rio Virgen, Utah. Together, 2 albumen prints, the images measuring 10x13 and 12 1/2x9 3/4 inches (25.4x33 and 31.8x23.5 cm.), the first on Hillers' gray mount 16x20 inches (40.6x50.8 cm.), the second is unmounted, each with Hillers' credit and caption in the negative. 1870s
Swann Auction Galleries
May. 22, 2016
Photograph, John Hillers
Est: $1,000 - $2,000
John K. Hillers (German/American, 1843-1925), West Front of Zuni, Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico, 1879-1882, vintage albumen photograph on original Hillers mount, titled lower left, inscribed "Hillers Photo" lower right, image/sheet: 10"h x 13"w, overall (with mount): 12"h x 15"w. Note: Hillers was an important Western expedition photographer, and chief photographer of the U.S. Geological Survey.
Clars Auctions
Feb. 25, 2016
JOHN K. HILLERS (1843-1925) Zuñi transportation.
Est: $700 - $1,000
JOHN K. HILLERS (1843-1925) Zuñi transportation. Albumen print, 7x9 1/8 inches (17.8x23.2 cm.), on the original decorative mount measuring 12x15 inches (30.5x38.1 cm.), with Hillers' credit and caption in the negative. 1878
Swann Auction Galleries
Oct. 15, 2015
HILLERS, JOHN K. (1843-1925) Hillers in the field with his photographic equipment, Aquarius Plateau, Utah Territory.
Est: $1,800 - $2,200
HILLERS, JOHN K. (1843-1925) Hillers in the field with his photographic equipment, Aquarius Plateau, Utah Territory. Oversized stereoview of Hillers, who is incorrectly identified as William Henry Jackson below the image area. Albumen prints, each measuring 4 3/8x3 inches (11.1x7.6 cm.), on the original U.S. Geological Powell Survey mount measuring 4 1/2x7 inches (11.4x17.8 cm.), and a secondary later mount, with the incorrect caption on that mount recto, and with various notations, labels, and stamps on mount verso. Circa 1872
Swann Auction Galleries
Dec. 11, 2014
HILLERS, JOHN K. (1843-1925) "Moki spinning."'
Est: $900 - $1,200
HILLERS, JOHN K. (1843-1925) "Moki spinning."' Albumen print, 9 1/4x7 1/4 inches (23.5x19.7 cm.), with Hillers' title and credit in the negative; on the original gray mount. 1870s
Swann Auction Galleries
Oct. 17, 2014
HILLERS, JOHN K. (1843-1925) "Ruins of Cliff Dwellings, Canon de Chelley."
Est: $2,000 - $3,000
HILLERS, JOHN K. (1843-1925) "Ruins of Cliff Dwellings, Canon de Chelley." Albumen print, 10x13 1/4 inches (25.4x33.7 cm.), on the original mount with a flourished rule, with Hillers' credit and the title, in the negative. Circa 1879-81
Swann Auction Galleries
Jun. 01, 2014
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) Monroe Canon, Utah,
Est: $1,000 - $2,000
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) "Monroe Canon, Utah," c. 1875, albumen print mounted, 9.75" x 12.75", signed in the negative, framed Provenance: Andrew Smith Gallery, Inc., Santa Fe, New Mexico Acquired from the above by Robert E. Beck, August 17, 2010. Property from the Estate of Robert E. Beck, Murphysboro, Illinois
Toomey & Co. Auctioneers
Jun. 01, 2014
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) Indians Sitting Around a Half-covered Tipi,
Est: $200 - $300
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) "Indians Sitting Around a Half-covered Tipi," albumen print, 4" x 3.5", framed. Property from the Estate of Robert E. Beck, Murphysboro, Illinois
Toomey & Co. Auctioneers
Jun. 01, 2014
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925)
Est: $700 - $900
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) "A group of seven works," albumen print, largest 4.25" x 3.75", unframed Provenance: Andrew Smith Gallery, Inc., Santa Fe, New Mexico. Property from the Estate of Robert E. Beck, Murphysboro, Illinois
Toomey & Co. Auctioneers
Jun. 01, 2014
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) Grand Canyon and Colorado River,
Est: $500 - $700
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) "Grand Canyon and Colorado River," c. 1872, albumen print, 8.25" x 6.25", unframed Provenance: Andrew Smith Gallery, Inc., Santa Fe, New Mexico Acquired from the above by Robert E. Beck, August 4, 2005. Property from the Estate of Robert E. Beck, Murphysboro, Illinois
Toomey & Co. Auctioneers
Apr. 07, 2014
HILLERS, JOHN K. 1843-1925.
Est: $1,000 - $1,500
1. Albumen print photograph, 9 1/4 x 7 1/2 inches, [near Okmulgee, Indian Territory, 1875], being a portrait of Big Spotted Horse, Hillers attribution penned on lower right mount, identification ("Bi-nain-sit") on lower center mount, matted, minor toning and edgewear to mount, else excellent. Pawnee warrior Big Spotted Horse made his reputation early. He was only a teenager when his tribe was attacked by a band of Plains Indians while on a summer buffalo hunt. The Cheyenne Warrior Alights-on-the-Clouds gave chase to young Big Spotted Horse and attempted to ride him down. Alights-on-the-Clouds was nearly in striking distance with his sword, but Big Spotted Horse, who was left-handed, surprised the Cheyenne warrior and was able to shoot to his right, striking the warrior point-blank in the eye. The event turned the tide of the battle, distressing the Cheyennes who withdrew. Big Spotted Horse was celebrated as a hero. 2. Albumen print photograph, 9 3/8 x 7 1/4 inches, [n.p., 1875], being a portrait of Hack-i-vi," Hillers attribution penned on lower right mount, identification on lower center mount, minor spotting, else excellent. Hillers was skilled at both landscapes and portraits and must have felt comfortable shooting out of doors. Both of the present portraits benefit from having their subjects in a more naturalist setting that is never obtained on a studio set.
Bonhams
Oct. 26, 2012
John K. HILLERS (1843-1925) The Captain of the Rio Virgen, Utah, USA, années 1870 Épreuve d'époque sur papier albuminé montée sur su..
Est: €700 - €900
John K. HILLERS (1843-1925) The Captain of the Rio Virgen, Utah, USA, années 1870 Épreuve d'époque sur papier albuminé montée sur support cartonné. Mention du photographe et légende en épargne dans l'épreuve. 33 x 25 cm.
Piasa
May. 25, 2012
John K. HILLERS (1843-1925) The Grand Canon, To-ro-wip valley, Colorado river, USA, années 1870
Est: €800 - €1,000
John K. HILLERS (1843-1925) The Grand Canon, To-ro-wip valley, Colorado river, USA, années 1870 Épreuve d'époque sur papier albuminé montée sur support cartonné. Mention du photographe et légende en épargne dans l'épreuve. 33 x 25 cm.
Piasa
May. 25, 2012
John K. HILLERS (1843-1925) The Captain of the Rio Virgen, Utah, USA, années 1870
Est: €800 - €1,000
John K. HILLERS (1843-1925) The Captain of the Rio Virgen, Utah, USA, années 1870 Épreuve d'époque sur papier albuminé montée sur support cartonné. Mention du photographe et légende en épargne dans l'épreuve. 33 x 25 cm.
Piasa
May. 25, 2012
John K. HILLERS (1843-1925) Grand Canon of the Colorado river, looking west, USA, années 1870
Est: €800 - €1,000
John K. HILLERS (1843-1925) Grand Canon of the Colorado river, looking west, USA, années 1870 Épreuve d'époque sur papier albuminé montée sur support cartonné. Mention du photographe et légende en épargne dans l'épreuve. 32,8 x 24,8 cm.
Piasa
Sep. 09, 2011
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) Stone Dwellings, possibly Wolpi, c, 1880. Unsigned. Albumen print mounted onto card, image/she...
Est: $700 - $900
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) Stone Dwellings, possibly Wolpi, c, 1880. Unsigned. Albumen print mounted onto card, image/sheet size 7 1/7 x 9 1/8 in. (18.2 x 22.8 cm), matted, unframed. Condition: Staining, toning, loss to image l.r., losses to mount.
Skinner
Sep. 09, 2011
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) Reflected Tower Rio Virgen Utah. Identified within the image. Albumen print mounted onto card,...
Est: $700 - $900
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) Reflected Tower Rio Virgen Utah. Identified within the image. Albumen print mounted onto card, image/sheet size 13 1/8 x 9 7/8 in. (33.3 x 24.9 cm), matted, unframed. Condition: Staining, toning, foxing, creasing, surface rubs, losses and water staining to mount.
Skinner
May. 20, 2011
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) East Fork de Chelley [sic] River, Arizona. Identified within the image. Albumen print mounted ...
Est: $800 - $1,200
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) East Fork de Chelley [sic] River, Arizona. Identified within the image. Albumen print mounted onto card, image/sheet size 13 1/8 x 9 7/8 in. (33.3 x 24.9 cm), matted, unframed. Condition: Pale staining, toning, losses and mold growth to mount.
Skinner
May. 20, 2011
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) Pueblo of Wolpi, One of the Moki Towns, Arizona, c. 1879. Identified within the print, indisti...
Est: $250 - $300
John K. Hillers (American, 1843-1925) Pueblo of Wolpi, One of the Moki Towns, Arizona, c. 1879. Identified within the print, indistinctly inscribed in ink l.l. Albumen print mounted onto grey paper, image/sheet size 9 7/8 x 12 7/8 in. (25.0 x 32.5 cm), framed. Condition: Mounted onto paperboard, rippling, staining to grey sheet, minor surface rubs. Provenance: From the collection of Austin Lamont, by family descent.
Skinner
Jun. 11, 2010
Hillers Mammoth Hand-Colored Transparency
Est: $5,000 - $7,000
Hillers Mammoth Hand-Colored TransparencyJohn K. Hillers (1843-1925), 28 x 32 in. glass positive, housed in a newer frame with paper mat, with a florescent illumination. Late 19th century, 1892 or later. An exquisite, hand-colored positive, from a negative taken in the summer of 1892 during Hiller's last trip west for the United States Geological Survey. Fowler (1989, 134-135) has suggested that Hillers was sent West by John Wesley Powell to take photographs for the coming World's Columbian Exposition. This plate, along with other Hillers images in this sale, was found in the home of Alonzo C. Bell, of Westfield, New Jersey, in 1960. Bell had been the Head of the United States Patent Office, and presumably received this and other photographs offered here through some political connection or friendship with Powell or Hillers. The tinting of this image is breathtaking. Cowan's has sold several of the mammoth-sized transparencies in the last 15 years. None of those previously sold were tinted; an exemplary work worthy of a museum collection.
Cowan's Auctions
Jun. 11, 2010
Jack Hillers Photographs of Zuni Pueblo, Various Views
Est: $20,000 - $30,000
Jack Hillers Photographs of Zuni Pueblo, Various ViewsJohn K. Hillers (1843-1925). Zuni and Hopi pueblo photographs, 1879-1881. Lot of 18 albumen photographs of Zuni and one of the Hopi town of Walpi on first Mesa. All 10 x 14 in., mounted on cream colored 16 x 20 in. stock with printed Smithsonian Institution Bureau of Ethnology logo. Each print with an applied paper label verso with Compliments of J.W. Powell In 1879, when Hillers took most of these photographs, he was a newly minted employee of the Smithsonian's Bureau of Ethnology, headed by John Wesley Powell. Powell, of course, had given Hiller's his first break seven years earlier, when government survey photographer E.O. Beaman had left the Powell survey party midway down the Colorado River. While initially hired as an oarsman, Hillers had shown an interest in photography, and acted as Beaman's assistant. After Beaman left, Powell appointed Hillers the survey photographer. Thus began a near 30 year association with Powell and the U.S. Government, ending in 1900 when Hillers retired. These images were taken during the summers of 1879 and 1881 when Hillers accompanied anthropologist James Stevenson on a collecting trip to the Southwest. Stevenson's activities were focused on the New Mexico Pueblo of Zuni, and to a lesser degree the Hopi mesa-top villages in Arizona. The images here provide a comprehensive view of the multi-storied Pueblo town of Zuni. Hillers positioned his camera in multiple places within the town, invariably on a roof to gain the best perspective. While most of the images are devoid of human subjects, signs of their everyday lives are seen in great detail in many of the photographs: corn, pumpkins and chilies dry on rooftops and poles; piles of ceramic shards lie waiting to be ground for tempering for new pots; a hide is staked out for drying; rooftop hornos with their firewood lie waiting; large painted water jars and dough bowls are everywhere. In addition to the rooftop views there are also several images taken from various ground level vantage points. A number of these are illustrated in Fowler (1989) Myself in the Water: The Western Photographs of John K. Hillers.
Cowan's Auctions
Sep. 11, 2009
John K. Hillers Photograph of Starving Elk, Cheyenne,
Est: $500 - $700
albumen print on gold decorated mount with inscriptions in purple ink, U.S.G. and G. Survey, J.W. Powell in charge, the subject identified as A-sa-ma-ka-rid-i-hewl and Hillers Photo. Image 7" x 9.25" mounted, 13" x 14.75". Photo taken on May 10, 1875 near Okmulgee, Indian Territory. Starving Elk was a prominent Cheyenne warrior. He was part of the epic march led by Little Wolf and Dull Knife from Indian Territory back to Montana in 1879-80. See Fowler, Don, The Western Photographs of John K. Hillers: Myself in the Water, pages 64-65.
Cowan's Auctions