Fr 032 Abandoned FredericRemington sqs Frederick Remington (1861-1909)

The drawing presents a stark depiction of hardship and loss within a rugged landscape. Here we observe a man, prominently positioned in the foreground, traversing a rocky terrain alongside a stream. His posture suggests weariness; he leans heavily on a walking stick, his gaze directed towards an indeterminate point beyond the viewer’s perspective. The attire – a wide-brimmed hat, bandana, and substantial belt with visible weaponry – indicates a frontier existence, likely associated with ranching or law enforcement.
Below him, partially submerged in the stream, lies the carcass of an animal, presumably a horse or mule. Its contorted form and skeletal appearance underscore the harsh realities of survival in this environment. The detail afforded to the decaying remains suggests a deliberate emphasis on mortality and the fragility of life.
Further up the slope, several figures are discernible on horseback, appearing smaller and more distant. Their presence hints at a larger group or community, yet their separation from the central figure reinforces his isolation and vulnerability. The landscape itself is rendered with meticulous detail; the craggy rocks, sparse vegetation, and steep incline contribute to an overall sense of desolation and unforgiving terrain.
The artist’s use of light and shadow creates a dramatic effect, highlighting the mans silhouette against the backdrop of the mountains. This contrast draws attention to his solitary figure and amplifies the feeling of abandonment and struggle. The subtext embedded within this scene speaks to themes of loss, perseverance, and the relentless challenges faced by those inhabiting frontier regions. It is not merely a depiction of a landscape; it’s an exploration of human resilience in the face of adversity and the inevitable decay that permeates all existence.