60

VERSO
Signed and dated, with inscription

An original letter from Dunton authority Michael R. Grauer to the previous owner of this painting will accompany the lot.

The letter states in part, “By the 1920s, with the disappearance of many New Mexico big-game species, especially bears, Dunton’s hunting philosophy and methods began to change as he went on ‘dry hunts,’ wherein he would ‘take’ game with camera and/or oil sketches.... Dunton painted both whitetail and mule deer. Your mule deer head is especially fine and could very well have been sketched from life. Dunton certainly knew how to paint a ‘life-like’ appearance in the eyes, to be sure. I would wager this painting dates from 1930-1935, given the handling of the paint and use of his stylized ‘Dunton of Taos’ signature. The inscriptions on recto and verso to Jerry and Effie Eddy are in his hand. This is an excellent example of Dunton’s work. I believe it would make an excellent addition to any collection of Western or American art.”

Condition ReportSurface condition is excellent. Small specks of inpainting in background, around antlers.

Important Notice: Statements of condition are provided as a service to potential bidders; such statements are educated opinions and should not be regarded as facts. The Coeur d’Alene Art Auction has no responsibility for any errors or omissions.