The C.M. Russell Museum has acquired three stunning consignments for its upcoming 2016 auction. The commitment of such work is evidence of the power of cultivating relationships.
The C.M. Russell Museum expects spirited bidding during an upcoming auction set for March 2016. “Castle Rock, Green River, Wyoming” is a stunning picture by Thomas Moran (1837–1926) that will feature alongside two original watercolor paintings by Charles M. Russell (1864-1926). Acquiring three items of such quality is rare at such an early date and signals the museum’s growing importance and profile in the Western art market.
C.M. Russell, “Water Girl,” ca. 1892, watercolor, C.M. Russell Museum
Moran’s 1907 “Castle Rock, Green River, Wyoming” is absolutely breathtaking. A beautiful blending of pastel blues, pinks, and oranges compose the Green River, which fuses into the sky at distance. There is a pastoral and dream-like haze that blankets the canvas and transports viewers back to the days when the Western Frontier was perfectly untouched. The Great Falls Tribune reported, “The previous record was set last year by the Charlie Russell piece ‘For Supremacy,’ which gaveled for $1.5 million. Museum Executive Director Michael Duchemin says, ‘Castle Rock” will sell for at least that much.’”
C.M. Russell, “Grizzly at Close Quarters,” ca. 1901, watercolor, C.M. Russell Museum
Equally stunning are the watercolors by Russell, entitled “Water Girl” and “Grizzly at Close Quarters.” Both pieces are masterfully rendered with bright, saturated color palettes and display Russell’s uncanny ability to capture the character of the American West.
To learn more, visit The C.M. Russell Museum.
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