Bison Art Appraisal

Framed Oil Painting: American Bison

This item is a framed oil painting depicting an American Bison (also known as a buffalo) in a naturalistic setting. The painting features a single bison positioned prominently, facing slightly towards the viewer with its head turned. The bison is rendered with a dark, shaggy coat on its forequarters and head, transitioning to a lighter, possibly summer-shedding coat on its hindquarters, showing shades of brown, gray, and reddish-brown. Its distinctive horns are visible, rendered in lighter tones. The background appears to be a field or prairie, with visible brushstrokes creating a sense of tall grass or foliage in varying shades of green, brown, and ochre, with a subtle glow or light source emanating from the upper left, highlighting the bison. The overall color palette is earthy and subdued, characteristic of natural landscapes. The brushwork appears to be somewhat impasto, particularly in the rendering of the bison's fur and the surrounding vegetation, suggesting a textural quality. The painting is housed in a substantial gold-toned wooden frame. The frame has a classic profile with multiple stepped and coved elements, finished with a metallic gold leaf or paint, showing some minor wear, scuffs, and possibly hairline cracks consistent with age and handling. No artist's signature or specific manufacturing details are readily visible in the provided images, making it difficult to ascertain the exact artist or precise age. However, the style suggests a representational approach, possibly dating from the late 20th century or early 21st century, focusing on wildlife art.