Vic Payne (American, b. 1960) Eagle Catcher, edition 23/35, 1999

Vic Payne
(American, b. 1960)
Eagle Catcher, edition 23/35, 1999
bronze
signed Vic Payne, numbered, and dated (base, near right foot)
height 138 x width 55 x depth 54 inches
Property from the Collection of a Missouri Company

Provenance:

The eagle holds profound significance in Native American culture, often regarded as a symbol of strength, freedom, and spirituality. Its ability to soar high in the sky represents a spiritual perspective and a connection to the divine, making the eagle a revered figure in various ceremonies and rituals. A fearsome predator, eagles were also dangerous opponents, only to be challenged by the most resilient and brave warriors. Only after capturing enough feathers to build a war bonnet would a warrior be deemed an “Eagle Catcher.”
Like Braveheart, Vic Payne’s monumental Eagle Catcher captures the dramatic and theatrical interaction between human and animal. By connecting the eagle and the warrior at this moment of high tension, this sculpture evokes themes of courage, reverence, and an undeniable bond to nature. The two figures are simultaneously in harmony and at odds, flowing together into one interwoven, dynamic story that is reflective of human experience with the natural world. Eagle Catcher serves not only as a stunning work of art but also as a tribute to cultural heritage and the enduring significance of wildlife in the narratives of the American West. Its monumental scale further emphasizes the weight of these themes, inviting viewers to reflect on their own relationship with nature.
Condition Report: IMPORTANT PROPERTY NOTE: This sculpture is being sold on site in Carthage, Missouri. Successful bidder will be responsible for picking up or arranging the shipping of this lot before December 31, 2024.