Charles Marion Russell (Amer., 1864-1926), "Assiniboine Warrior", pen and ink with watercolor and gouache on paper, 1922

sight: 10 in. x 8 in., frame: 19.5 in x 17 in.

Provenance: Bearing letter of authentication dated 1983 from Frederic G. Renner, who was considered the world's foremost authority on Russell until his death in 1987; thence property from a Dallas, Texas collection

Born in St. Louis, Charles Russell became a legendary painter and sculptor of the American West, known especially for his vivid portrayals of Native Americans and cowboys rather than cavalry. With minimal formal training (just three drawing lessons), he left home at 16 to work as a cowboy in Montana, where he carried watercolors and made clay models, capturing frontier life firsthand. Deeply influenced by his time living among the Blood and Blackfeet Indians, Russell developed a respectful and sensitive approach to their culture. His art career took off after 1896 when, encouraged by his wife Nancy, he set up a studio and began taking commissions, achieving wide popularity as an illustrator and painter of western scenes and wildlife. His work was celebrated for its authentic depiction of rugged western life and became sought after by collectors and celebrities, solidifying his legacy as a key chronicler of the American West.