Peter Rindisbacher 1806 - 1834

Estimate

120,000 - 150,000 USD

bidding is closed

Description

Peter Rindisbacher
Hunting the Bison
Signed P. Rindisbacher and dated 1825 (lower right); inscribed Hunting the Buffalo (lower center) ; also inscribed Captain R.P. Pelly Cheltenham, verso, in another hand
Watercolor, pen and ink on laid paper watermarked J Whatman
Image size: 8 3/4 by 14 1/4 inches 22.2 by 36.2 cm.
Sheet size: 10 1/2 by 16 in. 26.7 by 40.6 cm

Provenance

Zaplin Lampert Gallery, Santa Fe

Condition

In good condition aside from slight discoloration of sheet mainly at the edges, a few watercolor retouches in sky, probably to address removal of fox marks. Verso: remnants of tape stains at edges and other slight discolorations including a horizontal band possibly from an old backing board. Also, framer's remarks in pencil and indistinct pen inscription. Sheet is properly hinged at top two corners with Japan.
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.

Catalogue Note

Peter Rindisbacher moved from Switzerland with his family when he was 15 years old to the Red River Colony near present day Winnipeg in 1821. He found employment with the Hudson's Bay Company, the effective controller of the area and started selling his watercolors to supplement his salary. Already noticed as an artistic prodigy in Switzerland, his depictions of Indians became an immediate sensation and much in demand. However, a great flood in 1826 decimated the farms of the Red River Colony and many of the settlers including the Rindisbachers left for Wisconsin. The family then moved to St. Louis in 1829 where Rindisbacher continued as an artist but would die at 28 of cholera. While in Canada he produced the earliest drawn body of work to record the appearances and daily lives of the Western Plains Indians, preceding George Catlin whose first trip took place from 1830-1836. This watercolor is dated 1825. It is inscribed on the back with the name of Robert Parker Pelly who was the Governor of the Red River Colony in that year.