Buffalo Bill on Grey Horseback After Rosa Bonheur
Mid 20th Century Oil on Canvas Portrait of William Frederick Cody, Western Americana Equestrian Painting
A highly decorative mid 20th century oil on canvas portrait depicting the legendary American frontiersman William Frederick “Buffalo Bill” Cody mounted upon a pale grey horse, after the celebrated 1889 composition by renowned French Realist artist Rosa Bonheur.
This striking Western Americana painting captures the enduring mythology of the American frontier and the romantic spirit of the Wild West. Presented in an ornate gilt frame, the work offers strong visual impact and timeless equestrian appeal, making it ideal for traditional, country house, ranch, lodge, or eclectic interiors.
Buffalo Bill Cody became one of the most famous figures of the 19th century through his internationally acclaimed Wild West shows, which toured Europe during the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1889. It was during this celebrated Paris tour t
...hat Rosa Bonheur produced her famous equestrian portrait of Cody on horseback, which inspired this later interpretation.
Composition & Artistic Detail
The composition portrays Buffalo Bill in heroic equestrian form, seated confidently upon a pale grey horse within an atmospheric landscape setting. The luminous horse forms the central focal point, contrasting beautifully against the softer earth-toned background.
Expressive brushwork is visible throughout, particularly within the horse’s mane, costume detailing, and saddle work. The painting reflects the romantic realism associated with late 19th century equestrian portraiture and classic cowboy art.
The balanced composition and restrained palette give the work excellent decorative versatility and authentic Western character.
Unsigned attributed to an American school artist.
Historical Background
This image derives from one of the most celebrated artistic encounters between Europe and the American West. During Buffalo Bill Cody’s enormously successful Paris appearances in 1889, Rosa Bonheur visited the Wild West encampment to sketch performers, horses, and Native American participants. Cody later visited Bonheur at her Château de By near Fontainebleau, where she painted the original portrait upon which this work is based.
This painting stands as a later mid 20th century interpretation after her celebrated Buffalo Bill composition.
Dimensions
Canvas Size:
Approx. 38 cm x 28 cm
Framed Size:
Height: 50.5 cm
Width: 40.5 cm
Depth: 4 cm
Frame
Presented in an attractive gilt frame which complements the historical Western subject matter beautifully.
Signature
Unsigned.
Provenance
Private Collection
Reeman Dansie Timed Auction, Essex
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Privately loaned and exhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum, April 2026
Condition Report
The painting displays well overall with age-related surface wear, foxing stains, craquelure, and handling marks consistent with age. The canvas has lost some tension over time and would benefit from gentle professional re-stretching to improve tautness and presentation.
The gilt frame shows expected age-related wear and minor losses in places.
Overall, the work remains in good decorative condition and is ready for display.
A Superb Piece of Western Americana
A charming and highly decorative Buffalo Bill equestrian portrait inspired by one of the most iconic Western paintings of the late 19th century. An excellent acquisition for collectors of cowboy art, Americana, equestrian paintings, frontier history, and decorative historical interiors.
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Internal Reference: CAC-SK-0477
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1215548
Dateline of this antique is 1960
Height is 50.5cm (19.9inches)Width is 40.5cm (15.9inches)Depth is 4cm (1.6inches)
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