Original Painting of a Leaping Deer by Quincy Tahoma [SOLD]

Clara Lee Tanner stated, “One of the most dynamic, imaginative and gifted of Southwest Indian artists was Quincy Tahoma. He also revealed in his works the extreme rhythm and decorative feelings that are essentially Indian. Tahoma lived the life of an average Navajo boy, herding sheep and riding horseback.”

Realistic paintings of animals reflect much of his early life. No matter how violent his portrayals became in later years, Tahoma still painted animals with affection and great beauty.  This leaping deer is typical of his treatment of animals.  It is romping around enjoying the day.  Tahoma’s traditional clouds are in the background and a single tree in the lower center. 

Quincy Tahoma (1917-1956) Water Edge was an outstanding artist. He exhibited all over the United States in the better art galleries and museums. He won many prizes for his paintings. It is unfortunate that he passed away in 1956 at such an early age. He was destined to be one of the best of the Navajo artists.

This painting is signed in the lower right Tahoma ‘47. It also features his cartouche of a resting deer. It was framed when sent to us, so if there is any writing on the back of the image, we have not seen it. It is professionally archival matted and framed in a beautiful brown wood frame.

Condition:  appears to be in original condition but has not been examined out of the frame.

Provenance: from a large collection of paintings from a New York estate

Recommended Reading: Quincy Tahoma, the Life and Legacy of a Navajo Artist by Charnell Havens