Question

why would the artist George Catlin’s paintings from the 1800s be considered a form of artistic documentation?

Answer 1

In 1837, George Catlin opened a gallery of his paintings in New York City. The paintings, revealed to city dwellers the exotic life of the Indians in the west. It was also an opportunity for the people living on the western side to be appreciated by the people living in the eastern city. Catlin wanted his exhibit to  be sold to the US congressmen and wanted his paintings to be an historic documentation of Indian life. He hoped that his paintings would be the centerpiece of a national museum dedicated completely to the Indians way and their life. 

Answer 2

George Catlin got inspired and impressed with the culture of the Indians in the early 1800s when he traveled North America, and he documented all the culture he found impressive on the canvas.

In his work, he portrayed the Indian culture and lifestyle with which he got really impressed.