Frederic Remington is considered one of the most famous artists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He is best known for his vivid portrayals of the Old West. His sculptures, especially the famous Broncho Buster, are highly popular collector's items. Unfortunately, their popularity has also made them a target for reproduction and forgery.
Whether you're an art enthusiast, collector, or just someone with a love for Western Americana, knowing how to identify an authentic Frederic Remington sculpture can save you from costly mistakes.
In this guide, we’ll explore the key indicators of authenticity and how to avoid being duped by fakes.
Tips to Spot an Authentic Frederic Remington Sculpture
Understand the Historical Context
Frederic Remington (1861–1909) created 22 bronze sculptures in his lifetime. These works were cast primarily by two foundries: the Henry-Bonnard Bronze Company (from 1895 to 1898) and Roman Bronze Works (from 1900 onward). Knowing the timeframe and origin of the cast is critical. Remington died in 1909, so only bronzes cast during his life or shortly after (authorized posthumous casts) can be considered authentic or original.
Check for the Foundry Marks
Foundry marks are essential for checking the authenticity of a Remington statue. Authentic Remington bronze sculptures always bear a foundry mark, typically located on the base or the lower back of the sculpture. The two legitimate marks to look for are “Roman Bronze Works N.Y.” and “Henry-Bonnard Bronze Co. N.Y.” These inscriptions are not simply engraved after the fact but are cast directly into the sculpture during the production process. Be cautious of sculptures that lack a foundry mark altogether or that are marked as “Remington Museum Replica,” which usually indicates a modern reproduction intended for decorative purposes rather than genuine collectibility.
Examine the Signature and Provenance
Remington bronze sculptures often come with a signature. However, signatures can vary as he sometimes altered or refined his pieces. On a genuine bronze, the signature “Frederic Remington” is cast into the bronze, typically in a cursive style. It should not be engraved or scratched into the piece after it has been cast. Poorly rendered, misspelled, or misplaced signatures are common among counterfeit pieces and should immediately raise suspicion. Provenance (the documented history of ownership) is crucial. Authentic pieces typically come through reputable art dealers or major auction houses. Be wary of sculptures with unclear or unverifiable provenance, as many fakes entered the market after Eva Remington’s death. Paintings and sculptures alike require expert connoisseurship to verify that the style, technique, and signature match Remington’s known works.
Assess the Patina and Craftsmanship
Authentic Frederic Remington sculptures often display a high level of craftsmanship and rich, deep, and nuanced patina that has developed naturally over more than a century. When selecting Remington bronze sculptures, notice the fine detailing in the musculature of the horses, realistic facial expressions, and smooth, clean transitions across surfaces. In contrast, reproductions often have shiny, artificial finishes and less-defined details and may exhibit visible mold seams or rough areas that indicate a lack of precision in casting.
Inspect the Base
The base of a Remington sculpture can reveal a lot about its authenticity. Originals are typically mounted on simple bronze or marble bases that are proportional and understated. Be skeptical of sculptures with ornate or flashy wooden bases, as these are commonly added to modern replicas to enhance their appeal. Additionally, plaques or tags that read “Frederic Remington” are typically marketing embellishments found on reproductions or decorative versions rather than the original artwork.
Know the Commonly Forged Pieces
Certain Remington sculptures are more frequently forged than others due to their popularity. Among the most commonly copied are The Broncho Buster (1895), Coming Through the Rye, The Outlaw, and Mountain Man. These iconic pieces have been replicated thousands of times, often poorly, and sold at flea markets, online auctions, and home décor stores. If you’re considering purchasing one of these, you should be especially vigilant about verifying its authenticity through the other factors listed here.
Consult an Expert
If you have any doubts about the authenticity of a Remington sculpture, it’s best to consult an expert. Reach out to certified art appraisers, especially those with experience in Western or American sculpture. You can also contact institutions like the Frederic Remington Art Museum for guidance. A second opinion can be invaluable, especially when preparing to make a significant investment.
Red Flags to Watch For
Finally, there are a few major red flags that should prompt caution. Be wary of pieces sold at prices that seem too good to be true, as authentic Remington bronzes typically command high values. Sellers who refuse to provide detailed photographs or provenance information should also be avoided. Inconsistencies in the style or anatomy compared to known Remington pieces can suggest a poor-quality replica. Likewise, sculptures described as “in the style of Remington” are rarely, if ever, authentic and are generally decorative knockoffs.
Final Words
Spotting an authentic Frederic Remington sculpture requires a careful eye and attention to detail, including elements such as foundry marks, signature, craftsmanship, and expert analysis. With numerous productions available on the market, distinguishing the genuine from the counterfeit can be challenging. Genuine Remington bronzes are rare and highly valued, often selling for high prices. Collectors should approach potential acquisitions with realistic expectations and seek expert advice or provenance documentation to ensure authenticity. At European Bronze, we bring history to life with museum-quality Frederic Remington reproductions, cast using the traditional lost-wax method. Whether you're a seasoned collector or discovering Remington’s legacy for the first time, our bronzes capture the spirit, detail, and craftsmanship of the originals at a fraction of the cost.