1815 - 1872
Canadian
Indian Hunters Crossing a Winter Clearing at Sunset
oil on canvas, circa 1860
signed and inscribed "Quebec" and on verso inscribed "1164-46/Y221" and "CR00169-#1" on the gallery label
13 1/4 x 18 in, 33.7 x 45.7 cm
Estimate: $70,000 - $90,000 CAD
Sold for: $73,250
Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave
PROVENANCE
Kenneth G. Heffel Fine Art Inc., Vancouver
Private Collection, Vancouver
Sold sale of Fine Canadian Art, Heffel Fine Art Auction House, November 7, 1996, lot 80
Private Collection, Vancouver
LITERATURE
J. Russell Harper, Krieghoff, 1979, same view with two of the same figures in the painting reproduced, page 102, plate 94, and reproduced front cover
Cornelius Krieghoff captured iconic images of early Quebec, depicting the lives of the habitants, British visitors and First Nations people. Significantly, the first book on Krieghoff was produced in 1948 by ethnologist and folklorist Marius Barbeau, an important early documenter of native stories, songs and social organization. The subject of native peoples was so important to Krieghoff that it composed one-third of his oeuvre.
In this stunning winter scene we see Krieghoff’s fine European techniques in his depiction of the sky, infused with exquisite pastel tones in the layers of clouds, which culminate in a golden glow. The painting is finely detailed, from the softly brushed pastel-tinted snow to the authentic details of the hunters' clothing and the sled they pull for the transport of game. Krieghoff was well acquainted with activities such as this, as First Nations men often acted as guides on hunting expeditions he was a part of, and he admired the way they lived in harmony with their environment. Notably, J. Russell Harper included a very similar scene on the front cover of his 1979 book Krieghoff.
Estimate: $70,000 - $90,000 CAD
All prices are in Canadian Dollars
Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our
Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the
condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.