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According to Barbara Brenner, Berninghaus’ granddaughter, “Indians and horses show up early in Berninghaus’ career. Of all the Taos Society of Artists, his Indian ponies are among the most realistic, and although he was not a rider himself, he was able to paint them at rest and in action as if he knew every muscle and every temperament. This pair of riders could be scouting for rabbits for the annual hunt which is still being held each summer on the plains below Taos Mountain. It was important to Berninghaus that the Indians of the time be depicted exactly as they lived as a record of their history. He worried that they would become too Anglicized and lose some of the life style he respected.”

PROVENANCE
Private collection, Utah

Condition ReportSurface is in excellent condition. Canvas is lined to Masonite. Specks of inpainting in the sky. Small spots of inpainting between the head and spear of the Indian on left.

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.