Charles Marion Russell

Midwestern Galleries, Cincinnati, Ohio
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Sawyer, Jr., Cincinnati (acquired from the above)
By descent in the family to the present owner

Dimensions are for watercolor image. Two works, framed together; a watercolor depicting an interior scene of a native american preparing a pipe, together with a signature in ink. Each piece is laid down on board, which is than attached to matting, surface in generally good condition, with slight discoloration at edges.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The setting featured in Indian Preparing a Pipe, with backrest and painted backdrop, relates to Charles Russell’s studio and those articles that he personally collected.  Larry Len Peterson writes, "The studio was finished in early 1903, and at first it was more of a storehouse for his collection of western paraphernalia.  Not until after the Russells traveled in January 1904 for the first time to New York and visited other artist's studios that his cabin was turned into a working artist's studio.  Charlie had already accumulated a large collection of Indian items during his cowboy days--most of which were used as props for his paintings--and photographs" (Charles M. Russell: Photographing the Legend, A Biography in Words and Pictures, Oklahoma City, 2014, p. 56).  Russell, often with his friend the accomplished illustrator Philip R. Goodwin, occasionally dressed in Native American clothing from his own collection, posing for photographs by his wife Nancy, and even painted himself into several paintings (Fig. 1).