Funeral Procession (painting by Clementine Hunter)

"Funeral Procession" is a painting by self-taught African American folk artist Clementine Hunter, completed sometime in her career, although exact dates often vary due to the informal nature of her artistic record-keeping. It is a representative example of her genre scenes, depicting aspects of daily life and community events on Melrose Plantation, Louisiana, where she lived and worked.

The painting typically depicts a line of people walking, often following a horse-drawn hearse or a casket carried by pallbearers. Common elements in Hunter's depictions of funeral processions include the somber dress of the participants, their heads often bowed, and the suggestion of grief and mourning. The painting style is characterized by flat, simplified figures, vibrant colors, and a lack of perspective, all hallmarks of Hunter's folk art aesthetic.

The significance of "Funeral Procession," and similar works by Hunter, lies in its documentation of rural African American life in the South during the 20th century. It provides a glimpse into cultural traditions and social practices within the plantation community, showcasing both the hardships and the communal support systems present during times of bereavement. Hunter's art, while seemingly simple, provides valuable historical and cultural insights into a specific time and place. The work is significant for its naive style and its authentic representation of a Southern African American experience.