Bidspirit auction | Dave McGary (1958-2013)

Dave McGary (1958-2013) - DAVE McGARY (1958-2013) ENAMELED BRONZE SCULPTURE. Dave McGary (1958-2013) This commanding portrait in rich and historically accurate detail is signed, dated and numbered 38 from an edition of 50 in the casting near the artist's thumbprint impression. With this interpretation of the famous Lakota chief Rain-in-the-Face , McGary utilizes the distinctive qualities and innovative techniques he's best known for and achieves remarkable realism in the textiles, fur, hides and beadwork that adorn his sculpture. And in this case, the sculpture's backside is as striking as its front. The figure stands draped in beaded hide clothing and moccasins with a rifle in a beaded and Native tanned hide scabbard across his back. The rifle stock is decorated in prized brass tacks. A wolf headdress in remarkable detail adds to the commanding presence of the sculpture while summoning the animal's qualities of endurance, intelligence and warrior spirit. The artist includes a hide-covered shield adorned with fully modeled hyper-realistic feathers, likely of spiritual significance as much as protection. Dave McGary was deeply committed to historical accuracy in the regalia that was portrayed in his sculptures. He would conduct extensive research with tribal historians, elders, and descendants, often studying original garments, weapons, shields, and ceremonial objects firsthand before beginning a work. That commitment earned him the respect of many Native communities, and adoption into a Sioux family. Dave studied bronze casting in Italy as a teenager and was mentored by the renowned Western sculptor Harry Jackson. He later established his own foundry in Ruidoso, New Mexico, where he developed innovative patination techniques to achieve the remarkable realism in textiles, beadwork, fur, shields, and skin tones for which he is uniquely known. In many of his sculptures, hundreds of separately cast bronze elements were welded together to achieve detail and proper movement. His work is held in major collections including the Smithsonian Institution, the U.S. Capitol's National Statuary Hall, the Eiteljorg Museum, and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Measures 27 x 13.5 x 9.25 inches. Without proof of exemption, be aware that internet sales tax applies to all Internet transactions and local sales tax may apply to local pick-up transactions. We happily provide seamless in-house packing and shipping services on nearly everything we sell. Until further notice, we cannot offer international shipping in-house. Dimensions Measures 27 x 13.5 x 9.25 inches. Condition Very good condition throughout, no damage, repair or wear to any portion or to any degree.