Bill Owen "The Starving Cowboy" Original Bronze Western Sculpture 1986

Lot description

Condition: Good condition with minor wear commensurate with age. The bronze patina is well-preserved. Mounted on a wooden base, which shows light surface wear. Item Description Bill Owen, CA (American, 1942-2013) The Starving Cowboy, 1986 Original Bronze Sculpture Weight: 24lbs This powerful and evocative bronze sculpture, titled "The Starving Cowboy" by renowned artist Bill Owen, captures a moment of intense struggle and survival in the American West. In an unforgiving landscape where not much food is available, the piece depicts a cowboy standing precariously in his stirrups atop his horse, desperately reaching to pull a fruiting bud from the very top of a towering saguaro cactus. The horse stands with its head bowed, conveying weariness and the shared hardship of its rider. The sculpture is rendered with a rich, dark brown patina, enhancing the dramatic shadows and highlights across its textured surfaces. Every detail, from the folds in the cowboy's clothing and the horse's musculature to the rough, spiny ridges of the saguaro, is meticulously sculpted, creating a lifelike and tactile experience. The base, depicting rugged desert terrain, firmly grounds the narrative. Artist Biography: Bill Owen (1942-2013) was an acclaimed American artist celebrated for his authentic and deeply personal portrayals of cowboy life. Born in Arizona, Owen spent many years working as a cowboy, giving him an unparalleled, firsthand understanding of the daily realities, challenges, and triumphs of ranch hands. His art, encompassing both paintings and sculptures, is revered for its meticulous detail, historical accuracy, and profound emotional depth. Owen focused on depicting the working cowboy rather than romanticized figures, offering a raw and honest perspective. He was a distinguished member of the Cowboy Artists of America (CAA), an elite organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of the American West, solidifying his legacy as a significant figure in Western art. Emotional Analysis: "The Starving Cowboy" is a poignant and stark depiction of desperation. The cowboy's strained posture and outstretched arms convey an overwhelming sense of urgency and fatigue, highlighting the unforgiving nature of the desert environment where sustenance is terrifyingly scarce. The horse, typically a symbol of strength and companionship, appears equally weary, emphasizing their shared plight. The saguaro cactus, usually a symbol of stoic resilience, here becomes a last resort for survival, its high-reaching flower bud or fruit being carefully but desperately harvested. The scene evokes a powerful empathy for the struggle against nature, reminding viewers of the harsh realities faced by those who lived and worked in the untamed West. It is not a heroic, triumphant image, but rather a deeply human and moving portrayal of the relentless fight for existence. Flat rate shipping contiguous 48 states: $180.00 Only items pictured are what you will receive. We are not aware of any accessories that are not shown with the unit. If an item requires testing, we do not guarantee long term use. This is an estate item, history is unknown. We are not experts; we do not authenticate items unless otherwise noted. All sales are final. No refunds or returns. Ref: LFP316 | PD1 Dimensions (HxWxD) 25.38" x 12.74" x 10.50" Weight 24lbs Flat Shipping Rate (Within Contiguous U.S.) $180.00 Local Pickup We offer local pickup of your item by appointment only. Once your payment has been processed, you will receive a follow-up email to schedule a pickup time on the specified dates listed below. Detailed directions to the pickup location will be provided once your appointment is confirmed. Pick-Up Dates/Time: By Appointment Tuesday 4/28/26 or Wednesday 4/29/26,10am to 4pm Pick-Up Location: The Town of Cave Creek, Spur Cross & Cave Creek Rd (exact address will be given after purchase is complete) Item number: 113643 Ref: LFP316 PD1 ART710, WES550