From cowboys and Native Americans to horses and landscapes, Remington’s works offer a glimpse into a time and place that fascinates and inspires us. While his paintings and sculptures have become iconic, not everyone can easily recognize a piece of Frederic Remington’s art.
His works have become highly sought after in the art market, and unfortunately, counterfeit paintings are sometimes passed off as authentic ones. This can be frustrating for collectors and enthusiasts who want to own a genuine piece of Remington’s art.
This article will explore how to determine if a Frederic Remington painting is the real deal, sharing some tips and insights to help you distinguish between the authentic and the fake. We will also learn about Frederic Remington’s art and explore the key elements that set his works apart from others.
The Iconic Style of Frederic Remington: Bringing the American Frontier to Life
If you see some action-packed scenes with crisp details and a sense of liveliness, you just might be looking at the work of famous artist Frederic Remington. Remington was a master of capturing the rough-and-tumble spirit of cowboys, Native Americans, and other rugged folks of the American West.
His unique style, which blended realism with impressionism, captured the rugged, adventurous spirit of the frontier in a way that few other artists have been able to match. He was also known for his meticulous attention to detail, capturing the textures and nuances of clothing, landscapes, and animals in a way that brought them to life.
Frederic Remington’s night paintings often depicted scenes of campfires or other sources of light in the darkness of the American West. These paintings were notable for their use of contrasting colors and the way they captured the interplay of light and shadow.
Remington’s works also often conveyed a sense of movement and action, with horses galloping, cowboys riding, and guns blazing. His use of color, light, and shadow added to the drama of his scenes, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere that drew viewers in.
Don’t Get Fooled: How to Authenticate a Remington Bronze Sculpture
Are you a fan of Remington bronzes? Make sure you’re buying the real deal with these authentication tips!
Carefully Observe the Foundry Marks
Most Remington Bronzes don’t have any crucial foundry marking. To ensure you’re purchasing a genuine Remington Bronze, you should look for the foundry marks of only two foundries: Henry-Bonnard Bronze Co. and Roman Bronze Works.
Did you know the foundries that cast Remington Bronzes used different techniques to manufacture them? Henry-Bonnard Bronze Co. made sand castings, while the Roman Bronze Works exclusively used lost wax castings.
This detail is crucial when verifying the authenticity of a Remington Bronze sculpture. If you come across a lost wax casting with the Henry-Bonnard foundry mark or a sand casting with the Roman Bronze Works mark, it’s not real.
Consult Michael Greenbaum’s Book
“Remington’s Art” by Michael Greenbaum is a well-respected reference book on Remington Bronzes. It includes information on Remington’s life, career and a catalog of his sculptures.
The book also lists authorized dealers who specialize in selling authentic Remington Bronzes. If you’re considering purchasing a Remington Bronze, consult this book and purchase from one of the authorized dealers listed.
Price Verification
Remington Bronze sculptures are highly valued and can fetch very high prices. If you find a Remington Bronze sculpture for less than $75,000, it’s likely a fake. Remember that these sculptures’ value can vary based on factors such as the condition of the sculpture, the rarity of the piece, and the provenance of the sculpture.
Seek Expert Opinion
If you’re still unsure about the authenticity of a Remington Bronze sculpture, seek an expert’s opinion. Some appraisers and authenticators specialize in Remington Bronzes and can provide an expert opinion on the sculpture’s authenticity.
How to Spot a Fake Frederic Remington Painting?
Do you want to purchase a Frederic Remington painting? Don’t get scammed. Learn how to spot a fake one with these tips.
1. One of the most common ways to spot a fake Remington painting is by examining the signature. Check for inconsistencies in how the signature is written or if it looks too perfect or new compared to the painting’s age.
2. Fake Remington paintings are often made with subpar materials and lack the high-quality workmanship of an authentic Remington painting. Look for signs of poor quality, such as uneven brushstrokes or a lack of texture.
3. If the painting’s provenance is incomplete or questionable, it’s a red flag. Look for documentation that proves the painting’s ownership history and authenticity.
4. Anachronistic or historically inaccurate details in the painting also indicate it may be a fake. For example, a painting depicting a historical event that includes modern equipment or clothing is likely, not authentic.
5. Familiarize yourself with examples of Remington’s works by looking at books or visiting museums that display his work. This step can help you recognize his unique style and determine if a painting is consistent with his known works.
Final Words
Frederic Remington’s iconic style is easily recognizable once you know what to look for. Whether it’s his paintings or bronze sculptures, certain key elements set them apart from imitations.
By understanding these characteristics and knowing how to authenticate his works, you can truly experience the talent and artistry of one of America’s most beloved artists. So next time you come across a piece that claims to be a Remington, use these tips to help you distinguish the real deal from a fake.
