The importance of an alliance with the Iroquois to the English colonies led colonial officials to take four chiefs to London in 1710. The goal was to impress the Indians with the power of England and to make the English government realize the need to meet Iroquois requests. In terms of public relations the visit was a marked success, for the chiefs created a sensation in London. Their portraits were painted by John Verelst (1648?-1734) at the request of Queen Anne. One of them, Te Ye Neen Ho Ga Prow, or Hendrick, is shown here. As an Iroquois statesman, he confidently holds a wampum belt, signifying political sincerity. Behind him is a wolf, symbol of his clan. Hendrick's alliance to the British Crown continued until he met his death in 1755 leading Mohawk warriors into battle against the French.
Courtesy: Picture Division, Public Archives of Canada (C-92414)
