W. Herbert Dunton Illustrations · Riders of the Purple Sage: Shaping America

W. Herbert Dunton began his career as an illustrator in New York City creating art for publishers including Harpers. However, he became enchanted with the West and moved to Taos, New Mexico where he became a founding member of the Taos Society of Artists in 1915. He became known for paintings of cowboys so it is not surprising that Harpers convince him to do the illustrations for the 1921 edition of Riders of the Purple Sage. Today his original paintings sell for north of $100,000, but he was a struggling artist at the time and likely welcomed the commission.

When he and Bess rode up out of the hollow the sun was low..png

Dunton "When he and Bess rode up out of the hollow the sun was low."

Dunton, "What on Earth is that?"

Venteers and Bess finished their simple meal-then faced the open terrace, to watch and await the approaching storm..png

Dunton, "Venters and Bess finished their simple meal-then
 faced the open terrace, to watch and await the approaching storm."

Oh, he's only a boy!...What! can he be Oldring's Masked Rider?.png

Dunton, "Oh, he's only a boy!...What! can he be Oldring's Masked Rider?"

Like a flash the blue barrel of. his rifle gleamed level and he shot once-twice..png

Dunton, "Like a flash the blue barrel of his rifle gleamed level
 and he shot once-twice."

Just as Wrangle plunged again. he caught the whizz of a leadeer missile.png

Dunton, "Just as Wrangle plunged again, he caught the whizz of a leaden missile."

Dunton, "He has brought you far today."

It was Jane's gaze riveted upon the rider that made Bishop Dyer turn..png

Dunton, It was Jane's gaze riveted upon the rider that made Bishop Dyer turn.

Dunton, "Don't-Look-Back!"

Dunton, "Bess, I'll not go again."

And Venters shot him through the heart.png

Dunton, "And Venters shot him through the heart."