211

VERSO
Signed and titled
Label, Troy’s Cowboy Art Gallery, Scottsdale, AZ

According to Don Hedgpeth, “Whatever uneasy alliance that existed between the Blackfoot of northern Montana and the early white trappers and traders was fragile at best, and the Indian had the upper hand, at least in the beginning. The contrast of cultures was strikingly dramatic between the Canadian and American mountain men, who were adrift in a vast unknown and alien wilderness, and the Blackfoot, who was born to the land and the buffalo. The trappings of civilization were of no advantage to white men who wandered into the Blackfoot’s world. Hospitality was only a thin veneer, and vigilance was the watchword.”

Describing this painting the artist writes, “Trappers were drawn to Blackfoot country because of the abundance of beaver. The Blackfoot did not want anyone encroaching on their hunting grounds and made every effort to keep their enemies out. The title simply suggests to the viewer what the scene represents.”

PROVENANCE
The Artist
[Settlers West Galleries, Tucson, AZ 1980]
Private Collection, Aspen, CO 1980
Troy’s Cowboy Art Gallery, Scottsdale, AZ
Milton and Evelyn Eberhard, Scottsdale, AZ
Present owner, by descent

EXHIBITED
The Great American West, Settlers West Galleries, Tucson, AZ, Nov 1980

Condition ReportSurface condition is excellent. Three spots of inpainting in right-center portion, at edge of frame.

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.