Navajo Boy Racing on Horseback with Colt and Dog [SOLD]

Based on the signature style on this painting, it has been determined to be an earlier work by the artist.  In Begay's pre-1970 paintings, he generally wrote his name in cursive script and in small size.  Later, possibly as his eyesight weakened, he printed his name in block print and in larger size.  The handwriting on this painting is very well written with a steady hand.

The painting shows a young Navajo boy riding his horse while a colt and dog race alongside him.  The detail is exceptional and was definitely applied by a steady hand.  Written on verso of painting, in the artist's hand is "Original Casein Colors Young Roper by Harrison Begay Navajo."  The painting is on mat board.

For those who may not yet know, Harrison Begay passed away on August 18, 2012.  He is survived by his siblings, Alice Clah, Anita Begay, Mary Joy Begay, Cecil Blackrock, and Sarah Brown.  Funeral services were held on August 22, 2012 at the St. Michael Catholic Church in St. Michael, Arizona.  Interment followed in the Ft. Defiance Veteran's Cemetery.

Condition: appears to be in original condition

Provenance:  from the estate of Mr. and Mrs. Clark Gillis, Tarzana, CA

Recommended Reading:  Southwest Indian Painting: A Changing Art by Clara Lee Tanner