Unknown Artist
1864-1926
Bear with Jug
MEDIUM: Bronze
DIMENSIONS: 5 inches high
Initialed
SOLD FOR: $11,700
Including Buyers Premium
2017,
LOT 378
1864-1926
MEDIUM: Bronze
DIMENSIONS: 5 inches high
Initialed
SOLD FOR: $11,700
Including Buyers Premium
Following Native American tradition—and, specifically, Blackfoot myth—that ascribes human attributes to bears, Russell “treated the bear as a shambling buffoon who provided comic relief at the expense of an unwitting human. As his works testify, Russell thought a bear could drink and dance as well as any man.” (Stewart, p. 275) The bear in Bear with Jug is more man than bruin, perched precariously on the verge of tipping over backwards. Russell’s animals often have a humorous, Kiplingesque quality to them, as if they are characters from tall tales that stepped out of a Native American version of the Just So Stories or The Jungle Book. Prominent New Mexico rancher Albert K. Mitchell, who once owned this work, donated the bulk of his splendid collection to the Cowboy Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City.
Email: info@scottsdaleartauction.com
Phone: (480) 945-0225
Please note that the first unframed photo is most accurate for color. Framed photographs are to show the frame and are not color corrected to the painting.
*The Condition Reports are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Scottsdale Art Auction. Scottsdale Art Auction strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. All lots offered are sold “AS IS”. Please refer to item two in our terms and conditions for further information.