The Old Ways’ Large Western Oil Painting by Carolyne Hawley

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The Old Ways” is an original, large‑scale oil on canvas by contemporary Western artist Carolyne Hawley, known for her richly … Read more The Old Ways” is an original, large‑scale oil on canvas by contemporary Western artist Carolyne Hawley, known for her richly detailed equestrian and Western‑themed paintings. Her work often focuses on horses, cowboys, cowgirls, and figurative subjects, and has been widely exhibited and reproduced through major print publishers, making her a familiar name to collectors of Western and Southwestern art.

In this work, Hawley presents a powerful portrait of a Native American man wearing traditional regalia, rendered with quiet dignity and realism. He is shown frontally against a softly colored sky of warm peach and rose tones that fade into cool blue and sage at the horizon. A subtle herd of bison and a trail of smoke drifting upward introduce a spiritual, storytelling quality typical of Western narrative painting. The sitter’s white robe, feather adornments, and bone breastplate are carefully modeled, with soft, atmospheric shadows that highlight the sculptural quality of the figure.

The palette combines pale creams, soft turquoise and blue, and blush pink with deeper browns and blacks, creating a calm yet dramatic focal point over a mantel, bed, or console. The painting is signed “Carolyne Hawley” in the lower left and inscribed on the reverse with the title “The Old Ways” and the artist’s surname, along with a note reserving reproduction rights to the artist—an excellent detail for provenance.

The oil painting is presented in a custom solid‑wood frame with a light, natural finish that echoes the Western and lodge aesthetic without overpowering the artwork. The frame is substantial and well‑made, with a simple profile that suits rustic, Southwestern, mountain, ranch, and Americana interiors as well as more contemporary spaces that incorporate Western art as a statement piece. A hanging wire is attached to the back so the work arrives ready to hang.

Overall condition is very good and ready for immediate display. The canvas is clean and taut, and the paint surface is stable with a pleasing, even sheen. As is typical for a pre‑owned oil painting, there is light, age‑appropriate wear to the frame at the corners on close inspection. There is also one small, pinpoint‑sized spot in the lower left area of the robe (see close‑up photo); it does not distract when viewed normally but should be noted for accuracy. The frame has some wear and there is a spot of water damage on the frame matting in the lower left corner. Please review all photos as they form part of the condition report.

This is a substantial piece at approximately 48.5" H x 44" W including the frame. The scale and subject make it an ideal focal point for a fireplace wall, great room, home library, lodge, or ranch house, and a strong addition to any collection of Western, Southwestern, or contemporary figurative art. See less