2022 Coeur d’Alene Art Auction / Lot 174174 / 321  •  View Catalog  •   • 

174
Charles M. Russell (1864 – 1926)
To Noses That Read, A Smell That Spells Man
bronze
4.75 inches high
inscribed on base: To Noses That Read A Smell That Spells Man CM Russell [artist cipher] Roman Bronze Works

According to Rick Stewart, “Russell modeled the small figure of a wolf shying away from a bottle in 1920. Like the artist’s first depiction of a wolf in bronze, The Last Laugh, it is in ashtray form and represents the wolf’s controversial relationship with man. Russell’s title, To Noses That Read, A Smell That Spells Man, appears on the surface of the base – one of the few instances where he inscribed a title directly on one of his bronze subjects. In a skillfully rendered moment, the wary animal recoils from the scent of an object that represents the wolf’s bitter enemy, man.”

PROVENANCE
The artist
James and Josephine Woods, Willows, California
Private collection, by descent

LITERATURE
Rick Stewart, Charles M. Russell, Sculptor, Amon Carter Museum, 1994, pp. 243-48, illustrated

174

Charles M. Russell

1864 – 1926

To Noses That Read, A Smell That Spells Man
bronze
4.75 inches high
inscribed on base: To Noses That Read A Smell That Spells Man CM Russell [artist cipher] Roman Bronze Works
Sold at Auction: $121,000
Condition ReportBronze is in good condition.

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.