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Charcoal Sketch of a Cowboy, Harold von Schmidt, 1947
This 1940 charcoal drawing by Harold von Schmidt beautifully exemplifies the artist's deep connection to the spirit of the American West. Best known for his vivid portrayals of wagon trains, buffalo hunts, and cowboys, von Schmidt's work conveys a timeless authenticity.
 
Born in California in 1893, he drew inspiration from family stories, particularly those of his grandfather, a pioneer who journeyed west in 1849 and claimed to be among the first to witness Yosemite Valley. Von Schmidt’s artistic journey began at the California College of Arts and Crafts, where he refined his skills under the mentorship of acclaimed Western artist Maynard Dixon. His eventual move to New York in the 1920s established him as a successful illustrator, with commissions for the Saturday Evening Post, iconic historical murals and other notable works.
 
This particular sketch, rendered in charcoal, captures von Schmidt's characteristic attention to detail and his commitment to storytelling. The subject’s strong features and hat evoke the rugged, solitary cowboys of the Old West, encapsulating the essence of frontier life. A fine example of mid-20th-century American illustration, this piece shows some undulation in the paper and retains its original frame without glass.
 
Dimensions: 16 5/8" x 14 3/8"

Charcoal Sketch of a Cowboy, Harold von Schmidt, 1947

$650.00Price

    Charcoal Sketch of a Cowboy, Harold von Schmidt, 1947

    This 1940 charcoal drawing by Harold von Schmidt beautifully exemplifies the artist's deep connection to the spirit of the American West. Best known for his vivid portrayals of wagon trains, buffalo hunts, and cowboys, von Schmidt's work conveys a timeless authenticity.

     

    Born in California in 1893, he drew inspiration from family stories, particularly those of his grandfather, a pioneer who journeyed west in 1849 and claimed to be among the first to witness Yosemite Valley. Von Schmidt’s artistic journey began at the California College of Arts and Crafts, where he refined his skills under the mentorship of acclaimed Western artist Maynard Dixon. His eventual move to New York in the 1920s established him as a successful illustrator, with commissions for the Saturday Evening Post, iconic historical murals and other notable works.

     

    This particular sketch, rendered in charcoal, captures von Schmidt's characteristic attention to detail and his commitment to storytelling. The subject’s strong features and hat evoke the rugged, solitary cowboys of the Old West, encapsulating the essence of frontier life. A fine example of mid-20th-century American illustration, this piece shows some undulation in the paper and retains its original frame without glass.

     

    Dimensions: 16 5/8" x 14 3/8"

    $650.00

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