Press & Announcements
Read the latest press coverage & announcements about Freeman's.
Read the latest press coverage & announcements about Freeman's.
Blending Classic Design with Modern Interiors: a 2017 Design Trend Showcased in Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ January Auction Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ January 24-25 auction offers more than 700 lots of classic design for the informed buyer ahead of the design curve. The sale’s variety, edited for quality and heavy on French and Italian influence, includes objects from the affordable to the unusual that highlight centuries of human ingenuity. The AD100 2017 list released in Architectural Digest’s February issue shows that after nearly a decade of pervasive stark, white rooms, trendsetters are newly interested in classical design, this time with surprising twists. One of the year’s honorees, designer Jean-Louis Deniot, was quoted as saying, “high-voltage French style – think Régence chests showcased against stainless-steel walls and a backlit floor” are the next big thing. Head-turning French furniture is abundant in Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ January auction. A pair of immaculate walnut bergères with orange silk upholstery (estimated at $800 – 1,200) would anchor any modern room. A Louis XVI commode with a gray marble top and dizzying zig-zag marquetry (estimated at $3,000 – 5,000), a Louis XVI side table with a magnificent and rare brocatelle d’espagne marble top (estimated at $4,000 – 6,000), or a conversation-making Empire chair with imposing Sphinxes (estimated at $800 – 1,200), would likewise electrify a high-concept home. Design publications have touted contemporary furniture and minimal interiors for many years now. The trend is slowly but definitely moving toward comfortable, modern interiors that also include interesting, historic furniture,” said Corbin Horn, Head of Sale. “The universe likes equilibrium; a contemporary sofa’s impact is actually made stronger by the balance of having it next to an Italian Baroque commode.” Hip rooms find new ways to use historic objects for contemporary living. In the upcoming auction, a dazzling marble mosaic, lacking provenance but probably Roman, is re-made into a cocktail table with iron legs (estimated at $5,000 – 7,000). Classical forms strike a luxurious pose in newly-built homes today. A generation of buyers who are outfitting a home for the first time have matured beyond wanting the ubiquitous molded wood and leather lounge chair, and they are ready for objects that imbue their surroundings with personality. Designer Richard Keith Langham, in dialogue with Architectural Digest, said “rooms should be comfortable, layered, and appointed with furnishings and details that acknowledge the past, albeit with a fresh and clear approach.” That ‘fresh and clear approach’ is accomplished with modern colors, lighting and textiles, emphasizing functional forms that have already lasted generations. “Classicism is alluring. It’s instinctual, but many don’t realize they have the instinct. A painting of a mysterious capriccio or an outstanding marble sculpture gets one’s attention, even if the beholder is a modernist,” says Corbin Horn. The Fine Furniture, Decorative Arts and Silver auction also includes over 100 lots of timeless English furniture and decorative arts, rugs and tapestries, unique silver and objects of vertu. The preview for the January 24-25 auction opens Friday, January 20 in Chicago.
Lost Jenny 79 to be Auctioned by Leslie Hindman Auctioneers Leslie Hindman Auctioneers is delighted to be offering the heretofore lost Inverted Jenny position 79 at auction. This stamp has been in a private collection since it was separated from the original sheet of misprints in 1918. The Philatelic Foundation has authenticated the stamp, and it will be offered at auction on February 15, 2017 with a presale estimate of $200,000 – 300,000. In addition to the Jenny, the sale includes an unknown example of a block-of-four center invert 1901 Pan American Automobile stamps (estimated at $150,000 – 250,000), a center invert 1901 Pan American Fast Express stamp (estimated at $15,000 – 25,000), a rare Tete-Beche pair of the Buffalo Balloon (estimated at $5,000 – 7,000) and an imprint block of twelve Bolivian 1924 center invert 10-centavo Air Post stamps (estimated at $10,000 – 15,000). The collection is not exclusive to airmail errors and includes, among others, an uncommon example of the 1909 Bluish Paper 8-cent stamp, which The Philatelic Foundation graded VF-XF 85 (estimated at $10,000 – 15,000). The entire collection will be auctioned February 15 as part of The Lost Jenny 79 and Other Inverted Planes, Trains and Automobiles sale, which is set to begin at 12pm CT in Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ Chicago saleroom. Catalogues for this sale are available for $10 at the gallery or $15 by mail. Contact 312.280.1212 to order a print catalogue. This important philatelic collection will be followed by an afternoon sale at 2pm CT of other international stamps, coins and paper money.
The November 14 auction featuring the O’Meara Benedict Collection of Dollhouse Miniatures included over 550 lots sold in Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ Chicago saleroom and online. While many of the top lots sold to active floor bidders, the majority of lots sold to online bidders, due in part to the diversity of the collection. The top lot sold was a group of four Arts and Crafts style furniture articles, which sold for $6,875 against a pre-sale estimate of $200-300. Another highlight was a Dutch style marquetry secretary bookcase by John Davenport, which sold for $2,750 against a pre-sale estimate of $600-800. Property offered in the sale came from Maison des Maisons, or “House of Houses,” founded in 1977 by Betty “Bets” O’Meara and her daughter Sharon O. Carter in Denver, Colorado. Bets’ daughter Marilyn and her husband Andy Benedict joined the business in 1997 and helped to expand the breadth of the collection to include the work of numerous Native American and Southwestern artisans. “The O’Meara Benedict Collection is perhaps the most diverse collection of miniatures our firm has offered,” said Head of Sale, Genevieve King. The collection comprised numerous fine examples of early 20th century design, several of which were among the top lots of the sale. The iconic designs of Scottish architect and designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh were well represented in the sale and attracted competitive bidding for items such as a group of eight Arts and Crafts style furniture articles that sold for $3,250 against a pre-sale estimate of $300-500. Other top selling lots included an American room box that sold for $2,500 (estimated at $800-1,200), four Persian style silk and wool blend needlepoint rugs that sold for $1,625 (estimated at $400-600) and a William and Mary style burlwood lowboy by John J. Hodgson that sold for $1,625 (estimated at $500-700). In 2014 Leslie Hindman Auctioneers conducted the Cookie Ziemba and Eunice Gold Miniatures auction and in 2013 The Adell Venus Collection of Miniatures auction. Leslie Hindman Auctioneers is pleased to have continued the tradition of offering distinct collections of miniatures at auction.
Significant Colored Stones and Diamonds Accompany Strong Antique and Vintage Showing at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers The December 4 and 5 Important Jewelry auction at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers features a strong showing of signed jewelry from vintage and antique periods, including a collection of nearly 50 David Webb works, in addition to colored stones and diamonds. Designed at the peak of Webb’s creativity and influence, highlights from the Webb collection are late ‘50s through ‘60s. One example is a large and impressive interwoven bracelet in gold containing over 30 carats of diamonds, a fine example of Webb’s bold aesthetic and intricate construction ($50,000 – 70,000). The artist’s emphasis on color is also on display in this collection, including several jewels utilizing fine enamel work in jewel tones and natural gems in vivid hues such as turquoise and coral. Additional jewels from vintage eras include multiple uses of aquamarine such as in a platinum, diamond and aquamarine brooch by Cartier ($8,000 – 12,000) and a platinum, aquamarine, diamond and ruby ring by Tiffany & Co. ($5,000 – 7,000). A pair of 18 karat yellow gold, enamel and ruby bead convertible bracelets/necklace by Verdura will be offered with a presale estimate of $15,000 – 20,000 and a pair of 18 karat yellow gold, platinum and diamond bangle bracelets, Van Cleef & Arpels, France, will be offered with an estimate of $6,000 – 8,000. Older signed examples include works by acclaimed maisons Giuliano and Castellani, chief architects of the Renaissance Revival movement. One example is a fine Renaissance Revival gold, silver, multi-gem and polychrome enamel pendant, circa 1860, by Augusto Castellani, which is estimated at $8,000 – 12,000. A strong theme of Egyptian and Egyptian Revival is also present in the sale, represented by a yellow gold Egyptian Revival brooch that has a presale estimate of $6,000 – 8,000. At the September 2016 Important Jewelry auction at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, a fine 6.40 carat antique cushion cut Kashmir sapphire sold for $473,000. Continuing the department’s excellence in handling colored stones, the December sale has an exquisite selection of fine certified colored gemstones from the most desirable international sources. A large selection of sapphires will be offered, which includes a fine platinum, Kashmir sapphire and diamond ring, J.E. Caldwell, Circa 1910 ($250,000 – 275,000) as well as two beautiful Burmese stones: an important platinum, emerald cut Burmese sapphire and diamond ring ($180,000 – 200,000) and a fine platinum, oval mixed cut Burmese sapphire and diamond ring, French ($60,000 – 80,000). Two Burmese rubies of top color will be offered. One is a contemporary ring by Michael Beaudry containing an impressive cushion cut stone of 5.01 carats adorned with additional rubies and colored diamonds, estimated at $100,000 – 150,000. The other is a more classic but rare unheated Mogok stone possessing the sought after “pigeon blood” hue with a presale estimate of $25,000 – 35,000. The jewelry department will be exhibiting highlights from the December sale in Palm Beach on November 17 and 18 and in New York City November 21 – 23. The Chicago preview will open Wednesday, November 30. Additional information as well as the December Important Jewelry catalogue is available online at hindmanauctions.com.
Fernand Leger Study for the Tate’s Deux Femmes Tenant Des Fleurs to Be Offered at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ September 30 Modern and Contemporary Art auction will offer a Fernand Leger painting titled Deux femmes tenant des fleurs. It was painted in 1954 as a completed study to the larger final work that hangs in the Tate Modern and was painted in the same year. Two years prior to its sale, the smaller painting was featured in R.S. Johnson International Galleries’ Fernand Leger retrospective exhibition during November and December of 1966 in Chicago. The show was the most comprehensive Leger exhibition presented by an American art gallery at the time. An important inclusion as a late career work, Deux femmes tenant des fleurs harkens back to Leger’s earlier cubist approach while emphasizing the figure. The abstracted bands of primary color contrast the stark stylized female nudes in grayscale. The smaller painting varies only slightly in details such as the placement of a necklace on one of the figures and the shape of the natural branches at the center of the painting. The colors are less saturated while the placement of the color blocks is near identical. It has a presale estimate of $800,000 – 1,200,000. Also appearing in the 1966 retrospective exhibition in Chicago was an earlier cubist work from 1914 titled Paysage Village, which will also be included in the sale. Showcasing Leger’s personal vocabulary on cubism, as applied to the landscape, the gouache will be offered with a presale estimate of $600,000 – 800,000. The September 30 Modern and Contemporary Art auction will offer a number of additional highlights from the early 20th century. A Max Beckmann painting titled Bathers from 1938 will be offered with a presale estimate of $300,000 – 500,000. Painted while the artist was in self-imposed exile in the Netherlands, Bathers is typical of the emotionally charged figuration that earned the German Expressionist Degenerate Art status in his homeland. Jean Metzinger’s Nature morte au vin de madre from 1915 is another strong cubist example being offered with a presale estimate of $400,000 – 600,000. Also available is the artist’s 1923 work titled La jejune femme pensive aux roses rouges (Dame assie aux roses rouges), a stylized portrait illustrating the artist’s range of technique, which has a presale estimate of $100,000 – 150,000. Contemporary works such as Bob Thompson’s Landscape with Blue Nude, 1965, is another highlight of the sale. It is quintessential of Thompson’s allegorical painting and references classical painting composition while employing abstract expressionist influenced color, gesture and texture in an unusually large format. It carries an estimate of $80,000 – 120,000. Saul’s Guernica, 1974, by Peter Saul is a fluorescence psychedelic interpretation of Picasso’s famed anti-war painting, an art historical riff reflecting Saul’s social commentary in objection to the Vietnam War. Its large scale and vibrant colors showcase Saul’s melting cartoon imagery and surrealist funk approach to painting. It will be offered at $250,000 – 350,000. A 1996-97 Ralph Goings photorealist canvas titled Double Ketchup will be offered with an estimate of $400,000 – 600,000. Quintessential of the artist’s diner condiment works, this example as the title would indicate, features not one but two bottles of ketchup in masterful detail. Other artists represented are Lee Krasner, Alexander Calder, Theodoros Stamos, Amy Sillman, Laszlo Moholy-Nagy, Sally Mann, Gabrielle Muenter, Ernst Barlach, Alejandro Obregon and Burhan Dogancay, to name a few. In addition to paintings the sale will offer sculpture, photography and works on paper. The preview in Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ Chicago saleroom at 1338 West Lake Street will open Sunday, September 25. For more information or to view the online catalogue.
Antique Cushion Cut Kashmir Among Other Colored Stone, Antique And Signed Jewelry Highlights At Leslie Hindman Auctioneers The September 11 and 12 Important Jewelry auction at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers features significant antique highlights from the Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Art Deco eras in addition to the department’s focus on colored stones and signed jewelry. Leading the sale is an impressive, antique cushion cut Kashmir sapphire. The stone, accompanied by extensive certification, is offered here for the first time at auction as part of the fine Schoonmaker estate collection. Weighing over six carats, the present stone is an important example and is estimated at a conservative $225,000 – 250,000. Numerous additional fine, natural gems such as Paraiba tourmaline, rubies, emeralds, fancy sapphires and natural pearls are also offered. An important platinum, aquamarine and diamond necklace by Tiffany & Co. exemplifies the sale’s strength in both antique and signed jewels. The necklace showcases masterful use of platinum in its elegant and lightweight filigree work. This distinctive style, taken together with the restrained use of diamonds to accent the skillfully matched and faceted aquamarine, strongly evokes the work of Louis Comfort Tiffany, possibly aided by Meta Overbeck, during the period between 1915 and 1925. It has a presale estimate of $30,000 – 50,000. The sale has an expansive collection of classic signed works by Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Graff, Buccellati, Oscar Heyman Brothers, Julius Cohen, Schlumberger for Tiffany, Cummings for Tiffany, and others. Another highlight of the period collection is a Georgian gold, emerald and diamond bracelet. This impressive example of Georgian high jewelry utilizes intricate and bold repoussé work with exquisite emeralds and diamonds. The bracelet is presented in exemplary condition and estimated at $18,000 – 22,000. Important estate collections make up the majority of the sale, including the private collection of notable collector Olga Hirshhorn. The Hirshhorn Museum in Washington DC was named after Ms. Hirshhorn who also donated her private collection of art to the Baker Museum in Naples. Highlights of Ms. Hirshhorn’s jewelry collection includes an 18 karat yellow gold, platinum, turquoise and diamond bracelet, Cartier, Paris and an unusually fine platinum, diamond and emerald cameo brooch, both estimated at $5,000 – 7,000. Rounding out the signed collection is an important selection of modernist work by such luminaries as Ed Wiener, Horaldo Burle-Marx and Andrew Grima. The works of these artists combined with a curated collection of sculptural jewels, ranging from the bold to the whimsical, provide a fascinating counterpoint to more classical choices. The preview opens Wednesday, September 7 in Chicago following the New York preview Monday, August 22 – Wednesday, August 24.
C. Bechstein Grand Piano Circa 1900 Triples Presale Estimates at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers The July 18 and 19 Fine Furniture, Decorative Arts and Silver auction at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers featured a C. Bechstein gilt bronze mounted marquetry grand piano that sold for $173,000 against a presale estimate of $30,000 – 50,000. Circa 1900, information obtained from C. Bechstein’s record archives indicates that the piano was shipped from Berlin to the firm’s London branch on May 31, 1901. Sold to a West Coast client, the lot drew international attention from 11 bidders in California, Florida, Georgia, New York, Pennsylvania, Utah, Egypt and London. Significantly exceeding presale estimates, the sale totaled 1,240,585. Over 1,100 lots were auctioned, including French, Continental, English and American furniture and decorative arts as well as sculpture, silver, Middle Eastern works of art and Chinese export. Among highlights of the property sold was an 1817 George III silver-gilt tureen by Benjamin Smith II & Benjamin Smith III from the estate of Ann Downey, Palm Beach. Modeled after the Warwick vase, it sold to a private collector for $55,000 with a presale estimate of $20,000 – 30,000. A 1788 George III silver epergne by Thomas Pitts sold for $28,750 with a presale estimate of $10,000 – 20,000 and from a private collection of a Pittsburg family. A pair of large Meissen porcelain Schneeballen urns sold for $81,250 with a presale estimate of $5,000 – 7,000. Additional lots of interest include a Louis XVI style gilt bronze mounted mahogany and fruitwood vitrine cabinet, likely Francois Linke, which sold for $13,750 with a presale estimate of $5,000 – 7,000 and a Roman marble portrait head of a woman, which sold to a buyer in Paris for $16,250 against a presale estimate of $5,000 – 7,000. The Fine Furniture, Decorative Arts and Silver department at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers is currently accepting consignments for its fall auction on October 18 and 19. Contact 312.280.1212 to discuss an auction estimate or potential consignment. Top 5 Lots C. Bechstein Gilt Bronze Mounted Marquetry Grand Piano Sold for $173,000 Presale estimate $30,000 – 50,000 A Pair of Large Meissen Porcelain Schneeballen Urns Sold for $81,250 Presale estimate $5,000 – 7,000 A George III Silver-Gilt Tureen, Benjamin Smith II & Benjamin Smith III, London, 1817, which modeled after the Warwick vase Sold for $55,000 Presale estimate $20,000 – 30,000 A George III Silver Epergne, Thomas Pitts, London, 1788 Sold for $28,750 Presale estimate $10,000 – 20,000 A Roman Marble Portrait Head of a Woman Sold for $16,250 Presale estimate $5,000 – 7,000
Mountain Decor and More at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers June 16 Denver Auction Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ June 16 Mountain Decor auction in Denver will feature an eclectic mix of fine art, furnishings and decorative objects. Interested bidders will discover over 450 lots representing many different collecting categories including period to modern designs. The consignments assembled are from a number of estates and private collections and include property from the Estate of Georgia B. Burnett (former owner of Georgette Antiques) of Winnetka, Illinois; Dr. Richard E. Anderson of Redding, Connecticut and property of a private collector in Palm Springs, California, among many others. The auction features unique items from traditional to rustic to modern. Nostalgic and traditional tastes will be offered alongside modern property, offering something for both mountain retreats and urban dwellings. Highlights include paintings by artists such as Robert William Wood, William Keith, Clyde Aspevig, William Sanderson, Jay Moore and many others. The sale also features a selection of contemporary works on paper and sculpture by artists such as Agnes Denes, James Rosenquist, Robert Barry, Richard Long, Alain Kirli and Robert Adams. Other sessions include 19th century English, American and Continental furnishings and decorative arts, Asian works of art, silver, porcelain taxidermy mounts, 19th century sporting prints, 20th century furniture, including Gustav Stickley and Edward Wormley, and much more. The sale begins at 10 AM MT in our Denver saleroom.
May 24 and 25 Fine Art Sales at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers Fine Particular Focus on American Artists, Historic and Contemporary On May 24 Leslie Hindman Auctioneers will conduct a Post War and Contemporary Art sale followed by a Fine Prints evening sale and a May 25 American and European Art auction. In addition to European and Asian examples, the sales’ highlights find a particular focus on American artists. Highlights of the May 24 Fine Prints sale include prints from iconic artists such as Chuck Close whose Self Portrait from 2000 is being offered with a presale estimate of $80,000 – 120,000. Other highlights include a less recognizable Lichtenstein, The Sower, from his 1985 Landscape Series, which carries a presale estimate of $30,000 – 50,000. Paintings in the Post War and Contemporary Art sale by contemporary American artists include highlights such as Will Barnet’s Play, 1975 – 91, which will be offered with a presale estimate of $60,000 – 80,000 and Karl Wirsum’s The Odd Awning Awed, 1966, estimated at $30,000 – 50,000. Also included is a Conrad Marca-Relli titled M-XL-3-64 from 1964, which carries a presale estimate of $30,000 – 50,000. Other highlights by American artists include works by Tom Uttech, Terry Rodgers, Margo Hoff and Ed Paschke. The works on paper session includes two late career collages by Surrealist assemblage box maker Joseph Cornell, both ambiguously mythological and allegorical. A pair of ephemeral drawings that were gifted to Joseph Cornell by Surrealist Dorthea Tanning is also available. The drawings are part of the Betty L. Bergman Trust. The Bergmans were luminary art collectors and patrons in Chicago, as shown through the Art Institute of Chicago’s Modern Wing, which houses a selection of boxes from the Lindy and Edwin Bergman Joseph Cornell Collection. Other unique works featured in the sales on May 24 come from the Kultermann Estate, a collection focused on works by German and American conceptual and minimalist artists. Mr. Udo Kultermann was a German author, museum director and art gallery consultant in the 1950s and ‘60s. His wife, Erika Kultermann, an internationally recognized scholar on the German poet Else Lasker Schüler, formed friendships with many emerging and established contemporary artists from the period, embodied by their collection. Highlights from the estate include a noteworthy series of fragile and fugitive works by Paul Thek, expressing the frail and transitory nature of existence. Highlights from the May 25 American and European Art auction include Ralston Crawford’s Smith Silo that will be offered with an estimate of $300-000 – 500,000. In search of intriguing industrial and agricultural material, the artist worked in Chadds Ford and Exton, Pennsylvania from 1934 to 1939. It was here that his Precisionist style painting was executed. George Inness’ Sunset will be offered with an estimate of $100,000 – 150,000 as well as a Birger Sandzen titled Pacific Coastline, 1950, with a presale estimate of $50,000 – 70,000. Of particular American ties is a collection of 18 watercolor studies by Walter Ufer for the Fourth Liberty Loan Poster Program. After coming under suspicion as a German-born American at the start of America’s involvement in WWI, Walter Ufer was later approached by the Treasury Department to submit studies for a series of posters supporting war bonds. An essay in the catalogue describes Ufer’s inspiration and submission that challenged the program’s suggested approach. The collection will be offered with a presale estimate of $4,000 – 6,000. On the European front, and among many additional lots of interest, is a Marc Chagall titled L’arche portee par David a Jerusalem, 1955-56 that will be offered in the American and European Art sale on May 25 with an estimate of $60,000 – 80,000. A highlight of the Fine Prints May 24 evening sale is Franz Gertsch’s Natascha VI, 1987, offered at $30,000 – 50,000. Josef Sima’s Untitled work from 1965 will be offered with a presale estimate of $30,000 – 50,000 in the Post War and Contemporary Art sale May 24. Also from the Kultermann Estate is a late 50s ink dot drawing by Zero group denizen Gunther Uecker demonstrating the artist’s interest in light and movement as seen in his future nail works. Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ May 24 and 25 fine art sales will take place in the Chicago saleroom with online bidding via LHLive and Bidsquare. Fine Art Auction Schedule Post War and Contemporary Art (439) Tuesday, May 24 – 10 AM CT Fine Prints (440) Tuesday, May 24 – 3 PM CT American and European Art (441) Wednesday, May 25 – 10 AM CT Preview Schedule Friday, May 20 – Wednesday, May 25 1338 West Lake Street Chicago, Illinois 60607
Leslie Hindman Auctioneers Announces Auction of Property from the Estate of John Kluge for the Benefit of Columbia University Leslie Hindman Auctioneers is pleased to announce an auction of Property from the Estate of John Kluge for the benefit of Columbia University on June 14. The auction will take place at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ West Palm Beach saleroom and include over 400 lots of furniture and decorative arts from the 4-acre oceanfront estate that was recently sold at 89 Middle Road in Palm Beach, Florida. The property was known as La Casa Sin Nombre (“The House with No Name”) and comprises what was once an array of parcels, which Kluge assembled into a single estate in the mid-1990s. These five parcels presently include a 12,000 square foot 1935 garden house, a 6,000 square foot Mediterranean-style house designed by noted architect Addison Mizner and three additional structures used for guests and staff. The property also contains extensive gardens, a particular point of enjoyment for Mr. Kluge during his time spent in Palm Beach. The home was elegantly furnished with sophisticated and charming English and American furniture, mirrors, chandeliers, silver, porcelain and more. In addition to contents of the home, the June 14 auction will also include outdoor furniture and decorative objects once located on the grounds of the estate. The residence was given to Mr. Kluge’s alma mater, Columbia University. Leslie Hindman Auctioneers is honored to bring Mr. Kluge’s collection to auction for the benefit of Columbia. The preview will open on June 9 in Leslie Hindman Auctioneers’ West Palm Beach auction facility at 1608 South Dixie Highway. Leslie Hindman Auctioneers conducted an auction of property from the Kennedy Winter White House this past January and continues to be a growing presence in Palm Beach as the only national firm with a local saleroom in the area. (Photos courtesy of Brantley Photography)
Results from the September 25 American and European Art sale at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers showed strong interest in 18th, 19th and early 20th century paintings and sculpture as Post War and Contemporary art prices continue to rise. Top lots included James Abbott McNeill Whistler’s pastel drawing Parasol; red note, c. 1884, which sold for $413,000 with a presale estimate of $60,000 – 80,000. With its cool color palette and dominating patterns, Richard Miller’s The Necklace (La Femme au Collier) sold for $233,000 against a presale estimate of $150,000 – 250,000. Distinctly western scenes performed well with Oscar Berninghaus’ Taos Indians and the Sangre de Cristos from 1915 selling at $87,500 ($80,000 – 120,000) and Victor Higgins’ Meadow with Cattle selling at $106,250 ($70,000 – 90,000). European examples such as Emile Antoine Bourdelle’s acclaimed bronze Herakles, archer drew interest, selling at $245,000 against a presale estimate of $100,000 – 200,000. Works by Le Pho and Parisian street scenes by Jean Francois Raffaelli and Edouard Leon Cortes had numerous phone and online bidders with pleasing prices realized.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_column_text]Through the October and November auction season, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers will conduct two unique single-owner auctions in addition to its regularly scheduled auction of decorative arts from various owners. The first collection to be offered on October 12-13 is that of Gerard L. Cafesjian, an avid collector whose interests spanned centuries and mediums. On October 20-21 the various-owner auction will be titled Period Style to emphasize its focus on English and European movements by time period. Finally, on November 17, a second single-owner auction will highlight the contents of a Chicago-area home. A Collector’s Legacy: Decorative Arts from the Gerard L. Cafesjian Collection will include furniture and decorative objects demonstrating avant-garde design from the 18th to the 21st centuries. Born in 1925 to Armenian immigrant parents, Mr. Cafesjian served in the U.S. Navy and had a long career with West Publishing, the world’s largest publisher of legal information. Upon his retirement he founded the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and the Cafesjian Center for the Arts in Yerevan, Armenia. Mr. Cafesjian’s eclectic collection includes Napoleon III furniture, 18th century porcelain, Art Nouveau ceramics, mid-20th century Italian silver sculptures, a variety of examples of important Brutalist design and rarely-offered examples of post-modern design, all unified by the same appreciation for color, form and whimsy. A pair of Napoleon III gilt bronze mounted marquetry encoignures ($20,000 / 40,000) are attributed to Grohé Frères and appear next to an upright piano ($8,000 / 12,000) by the Parisian firm of Georges Alphonse Bonifacio Monbro. Post-war design offerings are led by a group of Paul Evans furniture including a sculpture front cabinet ($100,000 / 150,000) and a custom bar cabinet ($50,000 / 70,000) as well as a Phillip Lloyd Powell bar cabinet ($30,000 / 50,000). The following week, Period Style will feature superb examples of English and Continental furniture, ceramics, tapestries, lighting, clocks and bronze sculpture, with particular emphasis on furniture of the French and Biedermeier tastes. Highlights in these areas include a pair of Louis XVI gilt bronze sconces ($40,000 / 60,000) reputed to have belonged to François Marie Ménage de Pressigny and a Spanish table ($10,000 / 20,000) fashioned in the Empire taste and bearing a stamp that suggests it was part of the Royal Collection of Ferdinand VII. The estates of Shirle Westwater (Columbus, Ohio) and Denise Selz (Chicago, Illinois) and the collection of James Wenneker (Lexington, Kentucky) complete the auction. Included are several superlative lots of Italian marble sculpture; one example from Mr. Wenneker is a figure by Roman sculptor Orazio Andreoni depicting a woman after her bath ($10,000 / 20,000). On November 17 buyers will have the opportunity to acquire fine examples of late 19th century French furniture by leading Parisian firms as well as decorative objects of the same caliber. Connoisseur and Collector: a Chicago North Shore Residence is a single owner auction from a consignor Leslie Hindman Auctioneers has had the pleasure of working with for many years, watching the collection evolve as its curator continued to acquire. Now, relocation to the South brings an opportunity for the owner to build a new collection, paying equal tribute to his taste. Form, finish and workmanship across mediums were combined in this home, celebrating the prosperity of 19th century Europe. Auction A Collector’s Legacy: Decorative Arts from the Gerard L. Cafesjian October 12 – 13 Preview opens October 7 Period Style October 20 – 21 Preview opens October 15 Connoisseur and Collector: a Chicago North Shore Residence November 17 Preview opens November 12[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”5456″ alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes”][vc_single_image image=”5498″ alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes”][vc_single_image image=”5502″ alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes”][vc_single_image image=”5474″ img_link_large=”yes”][vc_single_image image=”5468″ img_link_large=”yes”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”5395″ alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes”][vc_single_image image=”5500″ alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes”][vc_single_image image=”5393″ alignment=”center” img_link_large=”yes”][vc_single_image image=”5466″ img_link_large=”yes”][vc_single_image image=”5470″ img_link_large=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Belperron Among Top Results from the Rita Dee Hassenfeld Collection: Sale Total $3.5 Million ” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=”font_family:Lato%3A100%2C100italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic%2C900%2C900italic|font_style:300%20light%20regular%3A300%3Anormal”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”4859″ alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”5444″ alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”5003″ alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”4936″ alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”5445″ alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”4854″ alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”5446″ alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”4861″ alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]On September 16, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers conducted a single-owner auction of Important Jewelry from the Estate of Rita Dee Hassenfeld. International dealers, collectors and institutions took note early on, many traveling to Chicago to view the impressive collection. Preview events in Chicago and New York showcased the sale, presenting highlights of signed pieces from designers such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Belperron, David Webb, Harry Winston and Seaman Schepps. The collection of 250 lots outperformed presale estimates, with sales totaling $3.5 million. Stealing the show was an extremely sought after Art Deco platinum, emerald, diamond, onyx and enamel lapel watch / necklace by Cartier. Signed E.W.&C. Co., it sold for $473,000, tripling its presale estimate of $100,000 – 150,000. Of similar interest, a ring by Harry Winston containing a pear shape brilliant cut diamond weighing approximately 9.12 carats of D color and VS2 clarity sold for $515,000 against a presale estimate of $375,000 – 425,000. An additional Harry Winston ring of platinum, 18 karat yellow gold, emerald and diamond sold for $149,000 with a presale estimate of $70,000 – 90,000. Suzanne Belperron also lured competitive bidding. A pair of silver, green beryl and grey chalcedony dress clips sold for $197,000 against a presale estimate of $30,000 – 50,000. A silver, carved aquamarine and green beryl ring sold for $55,000 while a silver, aquamarine and green beryl double strand necklace sold for $37,500, both Belperron with presale estimates of $7,000 – 9,000. Mrs. Hassenfeld was an accomplished ballerina in her youth and later a dedicated philanthropist and humanitarian. She married the late Harold Irwin Hassenfeld, a member of the founding family of Hassenfeld Brothers, now known as Hasbro Inc. The couple divided their time between two homes in Nashville and Palm Beach. Mrs. Hassenfeld was a founding member of the Swan Ball, one of the premier charity events in the United States attended by hundreds of prestigious supporters. The event continues to benefit Cheekwood Estate in Nashville, Tennessee, a privately supported nonprofit educational institute for the study and appreciation of the arts and botany. Top 10 lots: Lot 186, A Platinum and Diamond Ring, Harry Winston, sold for $515,000 Pre-sale estimate: $375,000 – 425,000 Lot 90, An Art Deco Platinum, Emerald, Diamond, Onyx and Enamel Lapel Watch, Cartier, sold for $473,000 Pre-sale estimate: $100,000 – 150,000 Lot 250, A Pair of Silver, Green Beryl and Grey Chalcedony Dress Clips, Suzanne Belperron, sold for $197,000 Pre-sale estimate: $30,000 – 50,000 Lot 169, A Platinum, 18 Karat Yellow Gold, Emerald and Diamond Ring, Harry Winston, sold for $149,000 Pre-sale estimate: $70,000 – 90,000 Lot 149, An 18 Karat Yellow Gold, Colored Diamond and Diamond Butterfly Brooch, sold for $100,000 Pre-sale estimate: $18,000 – 22,000 Lot 228, A Pair of 18 Karat Yellow Gold, Platinum, Colored Diamond and Diamond Earclips, Van Cleef & Arpels, sold for $100,000 Pre-sale estimate: $25,000 – 35,000 Lot 184, A Fine Platinum and Diamond Necklace, Van Cleef & Arpels, with a Detachable Cultured Pearl and Diamond Pendant, sold for $93,750 Pre-sale estimate: $60,000 – 80,000 Lot 237, A Yellow Gold and Diamond Link Bracelet, Van Cleef & Arpels, sold for $93,750 Pre-sale estimate: $50,000 – 70,000 Lot 227, An 18 Karat Yellow Gold, Colored Diamond and Diamond Flexible Collar Necklace, Van Cleef & Arpels, sold for $84,375 Pre-sale estimate: $30,000 – 50,000 Lot 187, A Pair of Platinum and Diamond Spray Earclips, Van Cleef & Arpels, with Detachable Cultured Pearl and Diamond Drops, sold for $81,250 Pre-sale estimate: $50,000 – 70,000[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Fashion History Made at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers with Ebony Fashion Fair Tripling Presale Estimates On June 10, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers conducted the last of three Ebony Fashion Fair auctions with Johnson Publishing Company. This installment was named Treasures from the Ebony Fashion Fair Collection as the 567 garments offered were considered the “best of the best,” essential pieces from the Ebony collection making their debut at auction. The first two auctions took place in 2011 and 2013. While both were successful, the demand on June 10 bore witness to the unique opportunity to shop some of the biggest names in fashion while owning a piece of Ebony Fashion Fair history. A sale of this stature from the iconic organization will not happen again. Bringing over $470,000, the high-energy sale offered an exciting and highly successful close to the run of sales, and a portion of the proceeds will go to Johnson College Prep, a public, 4-year charter high school located in the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago’s south side. With a 100% sell-through rate, the collection impressed stylists, fashion bloggers and designers a like. Notable industry influencers flew to Chicago to participate live or were phone bidding throughout the course of the day. There was something for everyone, but a handful of garments brought competitive bidding that pushed looks to impressive heights. Favorites from the day included a black velvet and marigold faille evening ensemble attributed to Yves Saint Laurent, which sold for $17,500. Another Yves Saint Laurent gown sold for $13,750, this one a couture black and sequin lace gown. Pierre Cardin shared the spotlight with a couture red sequin evening gown that sold for $6,000, and another red evening ensemble by Nina Ricci drew $5,250. The contemporary flare of Issey Miyake was well represented. A multicolor inflatable dress brought $4,375 and a similar skirt runway ensemble sold for $3,125.
Diverse Series of Post War and Contemporary Art Draws Global Bidding at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers The May 21 Post War and Contemporary Art sale at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers showcased a significant single-owner session alongside many important works that spanned sculpture, paintings and works on paper. The single-owner session came from the Claudia R. Luebbers Trust. For over four decades, Mrs. Luebbers acquired works by distinguished 20th century artists including Lee Bontecou, Jackson Pollock, William Kentridge, Gilbert & George, Sol LeWitt and Nick Cave, among many others. From her collection, top-selling lots included a 1959 untitled Lee Bontecou that sold for $350,000 against a pre-sale estimate of $200,000/300,000; Gilbert & George’s 1982 “Night Crusade,” which sold for $92,500; and the 1991 “Hare with a Telescope” by Barry Flanagan that sold for $80,500 against a pre-sale estimate of $20,000/30,000. The Luebbers session offered many outstanding works that added to the diversity of the entire Post War and Contemporary Art sale. Outside of this session, highlights included multiple Francoise Gilot canvases. His 1981 “A Window onto the Mediterranean” sold for $116,500 against a pre-sale estimate of $10,000/15,000. The sale featured five Victor Vasarely paintings, “ARCTU” fetching the highest bid and closing at $86,500. A series of Pablo Picasso ceramics drew numerous bidders. His 1953 “Vase deux anses Hautes” sold for $37,500 against a pre-sale estimate of $20,000/30,000. Chicago imagists, such as members of Hairy Who, were well represented in the sale. Karl Wirsum’s 1968 “Skullpture Y” sold for $92,500 against a pre-sale estimate of $10,000/15,000. Auction records were set for other Chicago imagists with Suellen Rocca’s “Lamp Poem” selling for $22,500 (pre-sale estimate $1,000/2,000) and Barbara Rossi’s “Wee Purr” selling for $32,500 (pre-sale estimate $5,000/7,000). The May 21 Post War and Contemporary Art sale was followed by a Fine Prints evening sale where contemporary artists fared well. The top lot was Benton Murdoch Spruance’s “Traffic Control,” which sold for $60,000 against a pre-sale estimate of $8,000/12,000. Multiple Andy Warhol and Joan Miro prints sold well and above high estimates. Wayne Thiebaud’s 1987 “Candy Apples” brought $32,500.
American painting auction results exceed expectations on May 20 at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers Property from the Collection of Carol H. and Richard M. Levin brought an important collection of 33 American paintings to Leslie Hindman Auctioneers for an evening sale held May 20 in Chicago. Five works by Thomas Hart Benton were sold, including his 1967 Discussion, which brought $1,052,500 against a pre-sale estimate of $200,000/400,000. With significant interest, phone bidders battled it out for the work, attempting to secure the quintessentially American scene of a laborer and union recruiter of the mid-20th century. Also available was Study for “Discussion,” which was reproduced in a 1937 issue of Life. It sold for $11,250 against a pre-sale estimate of $6,000/8,000. Two additional Benton studies sold well above high estimates: the 1951 Study for “Flood Disaster (Homecoming – Kaw Valley)” drew $362,500 against a pre-sale estimate of $120,000/180,000 and the 1956 Study for “Portrait of Carl Sandburg” brought $68,500 against a pre-sale estimate of $30,000/50,000. Highlights from other American artists included John Steuart Curry’s 1946 Self Portrait, which drew $62,500 and Charles Burchfield’s 1948 Basswood Tree in Winter, which sold at $98,500. Important American paintings also sold well in the May 20 day sale at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers. The hallmark of the sale was Ralston Crawford’s 1937 Pennsylvania Barn, which sold well above its high estimate, realizing $572,500. The modern painting has been in the Collection of Brown Shoe Company, Inc., St. Louis, Missouri, since 1971 and drew aggressive telephone bidding. Another lot from the day sale that experienced enthusiastic bidding was Charles Courtney Curran’s 1891 Peach Blossoms. The painting quickly surpassed its high estimate and sold for $104,500. Leslie Hindman Auctioneers is thrilled to have brought such a significant collection of American paintings to the auction market. Both the May 20 day and evening sales offer a testament to the deep interest collectors continue to exhibit for early to mid-20th century American artists.