The Exalted Ruler, 1912. Charles M. Russell.
Oil on canvas, 54 x 72 inches. Charles M. Russell Museum, Gift of Friends of the Exalted Ruler.
In 1908, Russell was made an honorary lifetime member of the Elks Lodge of Great Falls, and he happily accepted, since so many of his old-time acquaintances were members of the Elks. in 1912, the Elks dedicated a new temple and asked Russell if he would contribute something for the building. The result is this painting, which hung in the Elks Lodge of Great Falls until 1985. The painting inscribed "To My Brothers" with Russell's customary signature and bison skill trademark, is considered one of the artist's masterpieces. Russell's storytelling skills are on display as the metaphor for life's transience. The prominence of the majestic elk in the foreground leaves not doubt that he is the exalted ruler. However, time will pass and change will take place, even for one so exalted: the elk walking up the slope at right center is the ruler to be, and the one walking down the slope at the far left is the past ruler. The Exalted Ruler is significant not only as one of Russell's finest wildlife compositions, but also for its importance to the people of Great Falls and Montana. When the Elks Lodge decided to sell the painting in 1994, a statewide fundraising campaign was mounted to raise the money needed for the purchase. The campaign, called "An Inch for the Ruler," enabled donors to contribute $250 per square inch of painting. Its success is a testament to the power of grass-roots spirits and dedication.
