Lake of the Iroquois depicts two Mohawk tribesmen crossing an Adirondack lake in a time frame after contact with Europeans, circa 1640. The canoe is based on period accounts of native vessels constructed of elm bark. The musket in the canoe was a common trade item at that time. Physical characteristics, clothing and hairstyles were derived from various historical sources. The emblem painted on the bow of the canoe is taken from the signature of an Iroquois chief and represents the eagle.