Harrison Begay, “A Young Horseman
and Colt”
This is an original one-of-a-kind painting titled “A Young Horseman & Colt” by the famous Navajo painter Harrison Begay (1917-2012). The whimsical image shows a young Navajo boy feeding his palomino colt; this was painted in casein on blue paper. It is finely executed in a crisp, linear fashion using his distinctive illustrated style; the figure appears two dimensional & includes many details to the costume. The scene is a minimal suggested landscape to which he added a stylized cloud & three birds in the sky. The overall effect is soft & sweet; this would be perfect in a southwest style nursery. See the companion piece of a young girl & her colt in the shop!
This is signed Harrison Begay on the right & on the left with his Navajo name, Haskay Yahne Yah, which means "warrior who walked up to his enemy." He began signing his traditional name in the 1960's, so we know it was made after 1960. It is double matted & has not been removed from the frame. The frame itself measures 14” H x 11.75” W, & the window to the artwork measures 9.25” H x 7.5” W. It is made out of wood painted lavender, under glare proof glass. This is an opportunity to add an important work by this artist to your collection!
Note: Harrison Begay was an incredibly successful artist during his lifetime, created a huge body of work. He studied at the Santa Fe Indian School & won many awards and accolades during his lifetime, including the prestigious Palmes Academiques in1954 from the French government. His work is included in every big collection of native American art in the country.
Excellent Condition!
LZA1