Four Mounted Indians 1914

Charles M. Russell painted "Four Mounted Indians" using oil on canvas, a common choice for artists of his time. The materials themselves aren't revolutionary, but it's the way Russell handles them that's key. Notice how he uses loose brushstrokes, almost like sketches, to capture the light and movement of the scene. This gives the painting a sense of immediacy, as if we're right there with the riders. The texture of the canvas is visible in places, reminding us of the artist's hand and the physical act of painting. Russell was deeply interested in documenting the lives of Native Americans, but also deeply invested in romantic visions of the American West. The way he applies the paint – quickly, expressively – reflects this fascination. It's a technique rooted in both observation and storytelling, blurring the line between historical record and personal interpretation. By understanding how Russell crafted this image, we gain a richer appreciation of his art and the complex history it represents.