Page 34 - 2021 March Sealed Bid Catalogue

Lot 14—CHARLES M. RUSSELL—The Run (cont.)
Charles M. Russell, Preparing for the Buffalo Hunt (1900)
The Surround
The key to a successful fall bison hunt involves selecting
a suitable location to execute a “surround” in which the hunters force the herd to run into an ever-tightening circle to facilitate an efficient kill rate. As Russell’s oil painting titled Preparing for the Buffalo Hunt illustrates, the braves would use the available topography (in this particular case Chugwater, Wyoming) to stay out of sight and beyond detection of their scent by the animals while stripping down to the breechcloth. This process ensured the ability to generate a timely surprise of the herd as well as provide a much better chance for the hunters to stay mounted (and thus somewhat safer) while using both arms and hands to deliver deadly arrows, as is clearly demonstrated in this 1906 The Run scene.
In Preparing for The Run, Russell has challenged the keen observer to note that he has placed a blanket wrapped brave in the notch of the rock structure to warn if
the buffalo herd becomes aware of the scent of the hunters. This subtle but important example of Russell’s attention to detail can be seen directly above the head of the lead Indian on the right.
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The following is a more detailed description by Colonel Richard Erving Dodge of the ideal setting for using the
“surround” hunting technique as a means of maximizing the fall harvest. This was critical to cope with the logistical challenges of providing adequate food for winter survival by the tribe.
Early in October, when the buffalo is at his fattest, preparations begin for the “great fall hunt,” which was made for the purpose of killing sufficient animals, not only to furnish dried meat for the next winter’s supply, but heavy skins for teepes, parfleches, saddles, etc., and lighter ones for clothng, bedding, and for trade. Runners were sent out to scour the country for long distances, and seek out the eligible situation for the hunting camp. It must be near water, of course; there must be plenty of timber, wherefrom to cut poles for the erection of the drying scaffolds; there must be level ground for stretching and drying the skin; and above all, it must be in a region abounding in game.
The spot being selected, the whole band moved to it, lodges were pitched, scaffolds erected, and everything put in order for work.