American artist Frederic Remington created one of his most popular equestrian sculptures, The Rattlesnake, in 1905. This bronze sculpture depicts a cowboy riding a horse that is bending backwards to avoid being bitten by the coiled rattlesnake at its base. It showcases the artist’s keen attention to detail and skill in capturing the motion and tension of both rider and animal.
Remington made alterations to the first model in 1908, leading to about 90 casts of the large version sold between 1909 and 1920; only nine were produced during his lifetime. The dimensions of The Rattlesnake are 23 1/8 x 17 3/4 x 14 1/2 inches.
The sculpture’s provenance is from the Frederic Remington Art Museum due to Eva Remington’s will compliance with an Estate casting. With a mix of action, storytelling, and mastery of technique, it solidifies Remington as one of America’s most influential western artists. Overall, The Rattlesnake remains an impressive example of Western artistry that continues captivate art lovers today.
