Robert Henri painted one of his favorite models, Francisco, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, during a time when many American artists worked in the Southwest. Henri described the Hispanic American boy's unique character through different types of brush strokes. The twinkle in the boy's eyes and the hint of a smile convey an impish charm. The swiftly painted shoulder strap suggests an active energy. Altogether, the painting achieves Henri's goal of depicting realistic characteristics while also capturing the boy's spirit.
