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Western and Contemporary Native American Art
|
- Sale 2085
Live
| Denver
May 15 | 10:00 AM MDT
Live
| Denver
Sale 2085
| Denver
| Denver
Estimate$15,000 – $25,000
Frank McCarthy (1924–2002) was a prominent American Western artist known for his dynamic and dramatic depictions of the American frontier, particularly scenes of Native American warriors, cavalry battles, and rugged landscapes. Originally a successful commercial illustrator, McCarthy transitioned to fine art in the 1960s and became a renowned figure in the Western art world. His paintings are characterized by their cinematic quality, capturing motion, tension, and the drama of the American West with incredible detail.
Bark of the Buffalo Gun is a striking example of McCarthy’s ability to blend storytelling with action. The painting portrays a scene of intense action and violence, where a Native American warrior is dramatically thrown from his horse, likely because of a gunshot from the legendary "buffalo gun," a powerful rifle used by buffalo hunters. The composition pulls the viewer’s eye across the rugged terrain and into the chaos of the moment, as a group of mounted warriors follow behind. The painting’s title, along with the explosion of motion, suggests the shocking, thunderous impact of the buffalo gun’s discharge, altering the course of the scene in an instant.
This work is significant not just for its technical brilliance but also for its thematic layers. It captures the peril and heroism of Plains warfare, the brutal reality of life on the frontier, and the raw confrontation between Native cultures and encroaching modern forces. The rocky terrain and blazing sunlight add to the emotional gravity, grounding the viewer in the harsh, majestic landscape of the American Southwest. McCarthy’s art, while often romanticized, invites reflection on the complexities and tragedies of American Western history.
Overall good, stable condition; possible slight yellowing of varnish, commensurate with age; three pinpoints of possible surface soiling in upper right quadrant, near right edge; no detected craquelure, losses, damage, or repairs. Framed: 36 3/4 x 47 inches. Please request additional images.
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The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.
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Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.
To request further details about this lot, please email [email protected]
Alexandria Dreas
Specialist, Head of Sale, Western and Contemporary Native American Art
