Two Edgar S. Paxson Paintings Reunited in Missoula Courtroom

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - Two paintings by renowned Montana artist Edgar S. Paxson that had been separated for many years have now been reunited in the Missoula County Courthouse.

I spoke with Rafael Chacon, Director of the Montana Museum of Art and Culture in Missoula, who explained how the two paintings were reunited.

The Public Can Now See Two More Paxson Paintings at the Courthouse

“We have two paintings that Edgar S. Paxson did as a duo, and probably painted them somewhere in Cascade County, Montana,” began Chacon. “These two paintings were apparently purchased together in the 1950’s from someone in Hamilton, and then the two paintings were split up a little bit later in time, and they have been apart for probably 40, or even maybe 50 years. Recently though, both of those paintings have come together, and we've decided to display them at the county courthouse in Missoula.”

For those who have visited the Missoula County Courthouse, Chacon said the spectacular Edgar S. Paxson murals are already prominently displayed.

Paxson's Murals Have Been at the Courthouse for Over a Century

“We like to see Paxson's work in the county courthouse, because, of course, he did a bunch of murals there in 1914 for that building. And so these two paintings, what we're doing is, by displaying them, is sort of enhancing what's already on view in the in the building. The paintings (murals) that he did that were specifically designed for that building will be there in perpetuity.”

Chacon said the two new additions are much smaller Paxson paintings.

READ MORE: Missoula's New Underground Bar Is in a Familiar Spot

These Two Smaller Paintings are Now Displayed in Judge Beal's Courtroom

“These two subjects are hunting and fishing scenes, and so they are kind of quiet, kind of subtle, really beautiful paintings, but they're not sort of the rip roaring images of the West that we typically think of when we think of Edgar Paxson,” he said.

Chacon said those who wish to view the paintings must check in at the Missoula County Courthouse for permission, as they are now gracing the walls of Justice Court Judge Alex Beal’s Courtroom Number 1.