2021 Coeur d’Alene Art Auction / Lot 209172 / 375  •  View Catalog  •   • 

209
Frank Tenney Johnson (1874 – 1939)
The Horse Thief (1925)
oil on canvas
26 × 38 inches
signed and dated lower right

VERSO
Label, Biltmore Galleries, Scottsdale, Arizona
Tag, Christie’s, Los Angeles, California

According to Harold McCracken, “The ranchers and cowboys made a practice of hunting down the rustlers as they would predatory animals.… Furthermore, among the most active rustlers and horse thieves were some of the roughest, toughest, and most dastardly men who ever rode the range in a saddle. Their whole purpose was based on plans to outsmart the most expert of the legitimate old-time cowboys; and this added considerable zest and determination to apprehend the rustlers and eliminate them from the scene.”

PROVENANCE
Chicago Athletic Association, Chicago, Illinois
Christie’s, Los Angeles, California, 2001
Private collection, Arizona
Santa Fe Art Auction, Santa Fe, New Mexico, 2005
Private collection, Texas

209

Frank Tenney Johnson

1874 – 1939

The Horse Thief (1925)
oil on canvas
26 × 38 inches
signed and dated lower right
Sold at Auction: $363,000
Condition ReportSurface condition is very good. Canvas is lined. Four spots (approximately one inch in diameter) of inpainting to left of thief’s horse, in sky.

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.