Description
R. Scott (American, Unknown)
In R. Scott’s stirring painting Picture of Courage, history gallops into view with a thunder of hooves and the unwavering strength of men bound by duty and valor. This stunning piece captures the 10th Cavalry Regiment—also known as the “Buffalo Soldiers”—in motion, riding side by side through rugged terrain, eyes fixed forward with solemn determination. More than a scene from the Old West, the painting stands as a visual tribute to a group of soldiers who fought with courage in the face of adversity, both on the battlefield and within their own country.
The 10th Cavalry was formed in 1866 as one of the first all-Black regiments in the U.S. Army. Tasked with some of the harshest frontier duties—escorting settlers, guarding mail routes, and engaging in combat during the Indian Wars—these men earned a reputation for discipline, bravery, and resilience. Native American tribes who encountered them reportedly coined the term “Buffalo Soldiers,” a title believed to reference the soldiers’ hair texture, rugged spirit, and fierce fighting skills.
R. Scott’s watercolor-inspired brushwork and the textured, almost dreamlike backdrop evoke both the beauty and harshness of the American frontier. The figures are unified in purpose but individualized in gesture and detail—a testament to their humanity. The lead rider proudly carries a red flag, symbolizing unity and purpose, while others follow close behind, weapons at the ready, expressions stoic and strong.
The composition draws the viewer’s eye from left to right, mirroring the movement of progress and the steady march of history. Dust swirls beneath their horses’ hooves, blending into the background like the forgotten trails they once patrolled. Yet Scott ensures these men are not forgotten. His signature, nestled in the lower right corner, affirms that this is not just a painting—it is a declaration of remembrance.
Picture of Courage does more than portray a cavalry unit—it revives a legacy. It’s a reminder of the struggles Black soldiers faced not only in defending a nation but in demanding recognition within it. Through his art, R. Scott invites us to reflect on their sacrifice and valor, making space for their story within the American narrative. In a world that often moves too quickly to look back, this painting gently insists that we pause—and honor.
