Sale Name: 14th Annual Montana Fall Auction
LOT 241 - Native American Wood Carving by C.J. Booher
Description

Carved wood sculpture depicting a Native American mother and child with papoose. The piece is hand-carved from solid wood and features intricate tooling details throughout, including fringed shawl elements, braided hair, facial features, and decorative patterns on the papoose. The figures are mounted on a naturalistic base with an integrated carved basket element. This piece was featured in the 2001 C.M. Russell Auction of Original Western Art (Entry No. 113) and is signed by the artist C.J. Booher with copyright marking.

The carving showcases traditional hand-tool marks visible throughout the surface, creating texture in the garments and accessories. The mother figure holds a child in a detailed papoose carrier with carved strap work. The oval base includes organic rock-like detailing and a small coiled basket. The wood displays natural aging with color variation ranging from lighter natural tones to darker stained areas, consistent with the artist's intentional finishing technique.


Artist Information

C.J. Booher is a recognized Western artist whose work has been featured in prestigious auctions including the annual C.M. Russell Auction, one of the premier Western art events in the United States.


Condition Notes

Overall stable condition with age-appropriate wear. Surface shows minor darkening and patina development consistent with age. Several hairline cracks visible in the base and lower portions of the carving, typical of solid wood sculpture. Small separation crack noted between mother figure and papoose. Minor surface scratches and scuffs present throughout, particularly on the base. The basket element shows some wear to the carved ridges. No structural instability or missing components observed. Refer to the pictures and in person inspection for condition.


Dimensions

Approximate Dimensions: 20 × 8 × 6 inches (height × width × depth)


Provenance

2001 C.M. Russell Auction of Original Western Art, Lot 6/7, Entry No. 113

Quantity: 1