This is an essential volume for connoisseurs and collectors of western art and for those who simply admire Russell's work. With over 761 illustrations, including 221 plates in full color. The enormously popular painter of the American West, was also a skillful storyteller and correspondent. He often illustrated his letters with sketches in pen or watercolor, but his talent for turning a phrase and capturing a scene with words made even his unillustrated writings a delight to those who received them. Riding styles, as well as apparel and tack, were developed out of specific historical requirements that were then modified to suit contemporary sporting needs.
Riders communicate to their horses with aids, or cues.
After learning to mount, dismount, and attain proper body position, the novice rider must learn coordinate the aids, an important step in becoming proficient. To make the transition from the halt to the walk, for example, the rider squeezes his or her lower legs against the horse's sides at the girth to generate forward impetus while simultaneously relaxing the hands to allow the horse to begin moving. This volume is the most comprehensive collection of Russell's correspondence ever assembled. This is considered the period of his greatest artistic development. With 70 full-color and 25 black and white illustration, this volume exhibits some of the finest Remington drawings, paintings, and sculpture which are part of an invaluable record of the America's last frontier.