Aiding a Comrade

One of a series of works depicting the Cowboys and Indians of the American Wild West. Remington centers around the gathering of men and horses in the foreground. The earthy colored horses turn outward, framing the central figure. The artist's attention to detail is apparent in the depiction of the men, their clothing, and their rigid gear. Remington creates a convincing illusion of a profound scene through the wild west viewpoint. He paints the Indians a lot smaller, with less detail, and with faded colors. The rapid, short brushstrokes show the influence of French Impressionism, which emphasized color, shadow, and light. The artist leaves the fate of the rider unclear. Nonetheless, in knowing the painting's original title, Past All Surgery, Remington incorporates a component of fatalism and indicates that the fallen cowboy, perhaps beyond any assistance, may be bound to be murdered by the pursuing Plains Indians.