Russell historian Dr. Rick Stewart observed, “No American artist studied the buffalo more closely or absorbed more of its natural history on the open prairies prior to the advent of the white man than did Russell. To him, the buffalo was the living symbol of a frontier that had passed before his eyes. His own cipher depicting a buffalo skull was both a devotion to that animal and a lamentation for its passing. At every opportunity he made drawings of the animal and talked to those who knew its ways. He was particularly interested in its natural history; Russell was a dedicated wildlife artist, and the buffalo to him were ‘nature’s cattle,’ the ideal animal for the High Plains he had adopted for his permanent home. He was fascinated by the descriptions of earlier travelers who had seen the great buffalo herds darkening the plains as far as the eye could see.”

PROVENANCE
Myhre Family Collection, Montana
Present owner, by descent

Additional Resources

• Charles M. Russell’s Past Results
• View Condition Report

Condition ReportAs viewed through glass. Paper appears to be in good condition. The colors are bright.

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.