Fort Worth, TX, December 15, 2008—A new book published by the Amon Carter Museum reveals a different side of famed cowboy artist Charles M. Russell—humorist and illustrator.

Russell produced thousands of paintings and sculptures over his 33-year career, but beyond these works, he generated more than 400 pieces of correspondence, most of which he illustrated. The 100 Best Illustrated Letters of Charles M. Russell, edited by Russell authority Brian Dippie and published by the Carter, brings together for the first time the 100 most beloved of these letters.

“The letters in this beautiful book were drawn from both private and public collections around the country and a number have never been reproduced before now,” says Amon Carter Museum Director Ron Tyler. “One of my favorites is Charlie’s illustrated homage to the 'canyon mule.' Both Russell enthusiasts and those new to his work will find great enjoyment in this book.”

The 9.5 x 11 inch, 216-page book includes 193 color reproductions of Russell’s letters, a removable “to scale” letter and envelope replica, and a foreword—written in 1925—by the Cowboy Artist himself. The book retails for $50 and is available at the Amon Carter Museum Store. For more information, call 800.573.1933.