This oil painting by John Verelst (1649?-1734) of Joseph Brant's grandfather was commissioned by Queen Anne during the Amerindian Chief's visit to England in April of 1710. The Amerindians of eastern North America coveted the metal hatchet of the Europeans from the moment they first saw it. The instrument's superiority to the stone-headed type was apparent: it was deadlier in combat, more efficient as a tool, and just as useful as a ceremonial object. The Iroquois were the first Amerindian group to acquire firearms, having secured them from the Dutch traders along the Hudson River. In due course France supported her trading partners with firearms. The Mohawk Chief in this portrait has an English musket and tomahawk.
