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Gateway to the West: Property from the Collection of a Missouri Company
|
- Sale 6305
Live
| Denver
Nov 12 | 10:00 AM MST
Live
| Denver
Sale 6305
| Denver
| Denver
Estimate$10,000 – $15,000
William Ahrendt (b. 1933) is known for his historical paintings that vividly recall the stories of America and the West. Showcasing rich color palettes and dynamic compositions, Ahrendt’s artworks highlight the vast and rugged landscape of early America and the people who existed within it. By blending artistic skill with historical research, Ahrendt creates works that serve as visual narrative, as well as educating and eliciting an appreciation for Western American heritage. His contributions help preserve these histories to ensure they remain relevant in contemporary discussions about culture and identity.
In the context of the American West, “tribute” refers to the goods or resources that were exchanged between groups, often in trade or as a gesture of alliance. In the artist’s Accepting the Tribute, the viewer observes the moment after an exchange of cattle given from the cowboys to the Native Americans. A peaceful exchange can be assumed, as the main figures face away from each other, the horses of each party pointed in opposite directions, no weapons drawn. However, in the background, Ahrendt was sure to add details that spark curiosity, such as the long line of cattle that follows the caravan, trailing through the composition. The cows are watched over by a party of Native Americans and we are left to wonder: Who holds the power in this interaction? And is this a truly peaceful exchange?
Good, stable condition; surface dust visible throughout; no detected craquelure or losses; one point of surface soiling, approximated 1/4 inch in diameter, 7 1/2 inches from left edge and 30 1/4 inches from bottom edge; another point of surface soiling, approximately 1/4 x 1/8 inch, 7 3/4 from left edge and 22 inches from bottom edge; several other small points of surface soiling visible throughout. Framed dimensions: 65 3/4 x 80 3/4 inches. Please request additional images.
Please contact the Western Art department at westernart@hindmanauctions.com for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or free from wear, imperfections or evidence of aging. All lots are sold “AS IS”. Any condition statement is given as a courtesy to the client, is an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Hindman Auctions shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
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.
The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.
Please email westernart@hindmanauctions.com for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.
To request further details about this lot, please email westernart@hindmanauctions.com
Alexandria Dreas
Specialist, Head of Sale, Western and Contemporary Native American Art
