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As described by the artist, “Deemed impassible by the Astorians traveling to the Pacific in 1811, the canyon below present day Hoback, Wyoming on the Snake River (then known as the Lewis River) presented a formidable barrier. So much so, Wilson Price Hunt, the leader of the expedition, called the river ‘Mad River.’ Later, many other trappers and explorers expressed the same sentiment. But eventually some did traverse the canyon.

“In my painting set in the early 1800s a group of trappers travel upstream probing the canyon in search of passage. It is late September and the river is running low. With determination and good luck, they may be among the few who finally succeed.”

PROVENANCE
Coeur d’Alene Art Auction, Reno, Nevada, 2011
Private collection, Reno, Nevada

Condition ReportSurface condition is excellent. No signs of restoration.

Important Notice: Statements of condition are provided as a service to potential bidders; such statements are educated opinions and should not be regarded as facts. The Coeur d’Alene Art Auction has no responsibility for any errors or omissions.