Horse Racing near Wind River, Oregon

  • This watercolor would appear to be a finished work rather than a study.  It derives compositionally from one of the sketches Miller made during or shortly after the conclusion of his western trip in 1837, Indian Race (CR# 181). In that ink-wash sketch Stewart is positioned on the left of the action. While his horse lifts his right leg, Stewart pulls back on the reins as if his mount is anxious to enter the competition.

    Miller was not a fan of horse racing. He refused to attend such events at home and felt strongly that is was tantamount to cruelty to animals. Yet, when caught up in the excitement of Indian racing, he softened his view and gave himself over to the thrill of the sport. 

    Peter H. Hassrick

    Artist
    Alfred Jacob Miller
    Date
    ca. 1850
    Catalogue Number
    182A
    Medium
    Watercolor on paper
    Inscriptions

    LL: AJM; UR: Racing / near Wind River / Oregon

    Dimensions
    8 3/4 x 13 3/4 (22.2 x 35.0 cm)
    Accession Number
    0236.1091
    Subjects
    Indians, William Drummond Stewart, Wind River Mountains

    Artist: [?]; [Edward Eberstadt and sons, New York, NY, 1957]; Thomas Gilcrease, Tulsa, OK; present owner by gift