Press & Announcements
Read the latest press coverage & announcements about Freeman's.
Read the latest press coverage & announcements about Freeman's.
Freeman’s shattered expectations at its May 7 Prints and Multiples auction, achieving an impressive $2,269,721 in total sales with 94% of lots sold.
On April 30, Freeman’s held the second edition of its Impressionist and Modern Art auction, achieving a robust $3,000,000 in total sales.
Freeman’s | Hindman is thrilled to present its highly anticipated spring auction of Post War and Contemporary Art, taking place May 13 in the firm’s New York saleroom. Headlining the sale is Four Indian Riders (1967), one of the most iconic and visually arresting paintings by celebrated Native American artist Fritz Scholder. A bold and groundbreaking work that shattered conventions and redefined Indigenous representation in American art, Four Indian Riders leads a standout lineup of Modern and Contemporary masters, including Frank Stella, Gertrude Abercrombie, Magdalena Abakanowicz, Tom Wesselmann, and Lois Dodd. Zack Wirsum, Senior Vice President, Head of Department, Post War & Contemporary Art, provides his impressions of the sale. "The Freeman's | Hindman Post War & Contemporary Art team is proud and pleased to bring a collaboratively minded sale full of visual synergies and serendipitous surprises, ranging from once local flavors turned taste making mainstays of Abercrombie and Scholder to extraordinary examples from art historical icons including Lichtenstein, de Kooning, Stella and Wesselmann, to the global stage of our New York saleroom on May 13th." Scholder’s Four Indian Riders: Transcending and Challenging Existing Traditions Bold and uncompromising, Four Indian Riders, 1967 (Lot 88) is widely considered one of the most iconic paintings ever created by Fritz Scholder. With its vivid palette and striking composition of four Native Americans on horseback, the work defies romanticized portrayals and presents its subjects with a raw, modern sensibility. Painted in the same year that Scholder first approached the subject of the American Indian, the piece is a vivid collision of identity, history, and pop-inflected color, drawing influence from Abstract Expressionism and Color Field painting. It was prominently featured in the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian’s landmark 2008–2009 retrospective Indian/Not Indian—so central that it was chosen for the exhibition’s catalogue cover. As a visual manifesto of Scholder’s boundary-breaking vision, Four Indian Riders has become emblematic of his challenge to the art world’s portrayal of Native identity. Speaking to the artist’s legacy is Alexandria Dreas, Specialist, Head of Sale, Western and Contemporary Native American Art. “The impact of Fritz Scholder’s refusal to conform to cultural expectations and artistic norms cannot be overstated; he helped to reinvent Native American art within the broader canon of Post-War and Contemporary American art. His creative synthesis of cultural identity, art history, and contemporary American art movements forever changed Indigenous art in America.” In this singular work, Scholder distills the contradictions that defined both his personal experience and the broader American narrative surrounding Indigenous people. The riders are neither stoic symbols nor nostalgic archetypes—they are complex, contemporary figures rendered in bold, expressive strokes that reject stereotypes and invite ambiguity. Scholder once said, “If a Pop artist is one who is challenging clichés, then, in a way, I must be one, because the American Indian has become the biggest of clichés.” Four Indian Riders embodies that ethos, challenging both Native and non-Native viewers to reconsider familiar tropes. Through this painting, Scholder confronts cultural mythologies and asserts a radical new space for Native representation in contemporary art—one that remains as provocative and relevant today as it was five decades ago. The presentation of Four Indian Riders follows a remarkable history of success in auctioning this artist's works. Freeman’s | Hindman continues to break its own world auction records for this artist, previously set by Hollywood Indian and Horse #2, 1973, which sold in 2022 for $500,000. The Jazz Witch Continues Her Song Gertrude Abercrombie (American, 1909-1977) | She and I, 1935 | Estimate: $15,000 - 25,000 Gertrude Abercrombie (American, 1909-1977) | Set for the Night, 1950 | Estimate: $50,000 - 70,000 Also among the top highlights of the sale is a rare group of works by Gertrude Abercrombie, a pivotal figure in the mid-20th century Chicago art scene whose enigmatic, surrealist paintings have garnered renewed critical acclaim. As the subject of the major retrospective Gertrude Abercrombie: The Whole World is a Mystery at the Carnegie Museum of Art, the artist’s market and institutional presence continue to rise. The firm is proud to offer five exceptional works by Abercrombie in the May auction, led by the early and introspective She and I, 1935 (Lot 97) and the hauntingly intimate Set for the Night, 1950 (Lot 93), estimated at $15,000–25,000 and $50,000–70,000, respectively. These works offer a rare opportunity to acquire pieces by an artist whose mystique and influence only continue to deepen. Further Abercrombie works include: · Lot 94 | Moonlight and Landscape with Tree (Tree Lady), 1944 Estimate: $60,000 - 80,000 · Lot 95 | Three Trees and Three Clouds, 1938 Estimate: $40,000 - 60,000 · Lot 96 | Landscape with Giraffe, c. 1950-55 Estimate: $60,000 - 80,000 Celebrating A Vision in Color: A Curated Session by Emily Friedman Alice Baber (American, 1928-1982) | Light Ladder, 1965 | Estimate: $50,000 - 70,000 Ethel Schwabacher (American, 1903-1984) | Ode #I, 1954 | Estimate: $30,000 - 50,000 Comprising 50 of the auction’s 114 lots, Emily Friedman's A Vision in Color: A Curated Session presents a vibrant and thoughtfully assembled selection of works by emerging and established voices in contemporary and post-war art, with a special emphasis on the Light and Space movement. Curated by Emily Friedman of Emily Friedman Fine Art, a full-service advisory known for its discerning eye and innovative approach, the session showcases a cohesive visual narrative that encourages viewers to slow down, engage deeply, and experience the emotional resonance of color and form. Highlights include striking pieces by Peter Alexander (Lot 59), Ethel Schwabacher (Lot 35), Lita Albuquerque (Lot 55), Emily Mason (Lot 33), Alice Baber (Lot 32), and Paul Jenkins (Lot 45), among others—artists whose work captures a sense of movement, energy, and contemplative beauty. Additional Highlights Include · Lot 10 | Frank Stella (American, 1936–2024) | The Mysterious Bird of Ulieta, 1977 | Estimate: $150,000 - 250,000 · Lot 7 | Mary Heilmann (American, b. 1940) | Deco, 1989 Estimate: $80,000 - 120,000 · Lot 11 | Magdalena Abakanowicz (Polish, 1930-2017) | Two Moons, 1974 Estimate: $80,000 - 120,000 · Lot 22 | Tom Wesselmann (American, 1931-2004) | Little Great American Nude #10, 1961 | Estimate: $60,000 - 100,000 Property from the Estate of Mimi Kazon · Lot 89 | Lois Dodd (American, b. 1927) | October Barn + Trees Afternoon, 1997 Estimate: $15,000 - 25,000 Property from the Collection of Eliot C. and Wilson “Roly” Nolen Sale Preview The sale preview will be on view at Freeman’s | Hindman’s New York showroom at 32 East 67th Street. Public Viewing Hours: Monday, May 5 – Friday, May 9 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday, May 10 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Monday, May 12 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Freeman’s is a premier American auction house offering services in multiple categories including fine art, jewelry, design, books and manuscripts, furniture, decorative arts, antiquities, couture, and Asian works of art. With 16 regional locations nationwide, the firm provides auctions, appraisals, private sales, and art advisory services, connecting clients to the global art market. Freeman’s strives to bring art, history, and design to life by connecting people with extraordinary objects through exceptional service and expertise.
Freeman’s | Hindman is pleased to announce the spring auction of Prints and Multiples taking place May 7 in the firm’s Chicago saleroom. The sale features an exceptional selection of works by Modern and Contemporary masters, led by Andy Warhol’s complete Cowboys and Indians portfolio (1986), alongside standout prints by Picasso, Lichtenstein, Longo, and others. Warhol’s Cowboys and Indians: A Late-Career Masterpiece The centerpiece of the auction is Andy Warhol’s complete Cowboys and Indians portfolio, estimated at $600,000–800,000 (Lot 20). Created just before his death, the ten-print portfolio explores the mythology of the American West, juxtaposing figures like Geronimo and General Custer with commercial icons such as John Wayne. Commissioned by publishers Edmund Gaultney and Kent Klineman, the portfolio reflects Warhol’s signature Pop sensibility while critiquing the way media and consumerism have shaped public perception of Indigenous cultures and historical figures. The vibrant colors, bold outlines, and layered imagery underscore Warhol’s ability to transform serious cultural subjects into striking visual commentary. This portfolio stands as a powerful exploration of America’s historical myths and their lasting impact on contemporary culture. “We are thrilled to bring this fresh-to-market Cowboys and Indians portfolio to auction. In the same family since 1986, it is in pristine condition with bright, fresh colors,” says Monica Brown, Head of the Prints and Multiples department. “This set would be a cornerstone acquisition for any Pop or Western Art collection.” Additional Warhol Highlights Andy Warhol, Tomato Soup (from Campbell's Soup I), 1968 | Estimate $50,000–70,000 Andy Warhol, $ (4), 1982 | Estimate $80,000–120,000 Also featured is Warhol’s Martha Graham portfolio with an estimate of $60,000–80,000 (Lot 24), commemorating the legendary dancer with three expressive screenprints: Satyric Festival Song, Lamentation, and Letter to the World (The Kick) (all 1986). Based on photographs by Barbara Morgan, the series captures Graham’s dynamic emotional expression and lasting influence on modern dance. Further Warhol prints include: Lot 21 | Tomato Soup (from Campbell’s Soup I), 1968 Estimate $50,000–70,000 Lot 22 | Chicken Noodle Soup (from Campbell’s Soup I), 1968 Estimate $30,000–50,000 Lot 23 | $ (4), 1982 Estimate $80,000–120,000 Lot 25 | After the Party, 1979 Estimate $20,000–30,000 Robert Longo’s Men in the Cities Robert Longo, Edmund (from Men in the Cities), 1985 | Estimate $25,000–35,000 Robert Longo, Anne (from Men in the Cities), 1985 | Estimate $25,000–35,000 Two dynamic works from Robert Longo’s celebrated Men in the Cities series— Edmund and Anne—will be featured in the sale, each estimated at $25,000–35,000 (Lot 7 and Lot 8). These striking lithographs depict sharply dressed figures caught in moments of dramatic, almost balletic motion. To create the series, Longo photographed friends—including art world luminaries like Cindy Sherman and Larry Gagosian—reacting to sudden physical stimuli on the rooftop of his New York studio. The resulting images, with their exaggerated poses and high contrast, became icons of 1980s art, capturing a sense of urban intensity and emotional tension. Modern Masters and Picasso's Muse Pablo Picasso, Jacqueline au Bandeau de Face (Grand Tête de Femme), 1962 | Estimate $70,000–90,000 The Modern section features strong offerings by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, Henri Matisse, and M.C. Escher. A highlight is Picasso’s striking linocut Jacqueline au Bandeau de Face (Grand Tête de Femme), 1962 (Lot 75), estimated at $70,000–90,000. Depicting his wife and muse Jacqueline Roque in a Cubist style, the portrait blends multiple perspectives into a single, commanding image. Additional Highlights Include: Lot 12 | Roy Lichtenstein, Oval Office, 1992 Estimate $40,000–60,000 Lot 14 | Richard Diebenkorn, Two Way II, 1982 Estimate $8,000–12,000 Lot 18 | Alex Katz, Peonies, 2021 Estimate $12,000–18,000 Lot 51 | M.C. Escher, Sun and Moon, 1948 Estimate $20,000–30,000 Lot 65 | Joan Miró, Galathée, 1976 Estimate $20,000–30,000 Sale Preview The sale preview will be open by appointment at Freeman’s | Hindman’s flagship Chicago showroom at 1550 West Carroll Avenue. Freeman’s is a premier American auction house offering services in multiple categories including fine art, jewelry, design, books and manuscripts, furniture, decorative arts, antiquities, couture, and Asian works of art. With 16 regional locations nationwide, the firm provides auctions, appraisals, private sales, and art advisory services, connecting clients to the global art market. Freeman’s strives to bring art, history, and design to life by connecting people with extraordinary objects through exceptional service and expertise.
“If a Pop artist is one who is challenging cliches, then, in a way, I must be one, because the American Indian has become the biggest of cliches.” – Fritz Scholder A striking depiction of four Native Americans on horseback painted in vibrant hues that nod to Post-War influences, Four Indian Riders may be the most recognizable painting Fritz Scholder ever created. Prominently included in the National Museum of the American Indian’s foundational 2008-2009 retrospective Indian/Not Indian, Four Indian Riders was also chosen as the catalogue cover for the exhibition. Now emblematic to the show that encouraged greater review and highlighted the enduring relevance of Scholder’s art into the twenty-first century, Four Indian Riders perfectly articulates Scholder’s complex identity, straddling the role of insider and outsider in both his art and in his understanding of his culture. Fritz Scholder studied art at Sacramento State University under Wayne Thiebaud and earned his MFA from the University of Arizona, where he developed his bold, color-driven style inspired by the pop art, color field, and abstract expressionist movements. In 1967, while teaching painting and art history at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, Fritz Scholder painted his first Indian, thus changing the trajectory of his entire career. Inspired by his own experiences, he began painting Native Americans in ways that directly confronted and shattered long-standing stereotypes. As he explained, ‘“I vowed to myself that I would not paint Indians. Then I saw the numerous over-romanticized paintings of the ‘noble savage’ . . . and decided that someone should paint the Indian in a different context.” Rather than stoic warriors or mystical figures, his subjects were modern, complex, and often subversive: Native Americans awash in bright colors drinking beer, smoking cigarettes, eating ice cream cones, or draped in the American flag. Originally, the reception to these works was sometimes mixed, according to Scholder: My work immediately startled many people because I, part-Indian, treated the Indian differently, not as the ‘noble savage’ endlessly portrayed by White painters, and also because my technique was non-Indian. I felt it to be a compliment when I was told that I had destroyed the traditional style of Indian art, for I was doing what I thought had to be done. Scholder, of part Native American and part European ancestry, often said he was "not Indian" in the traditional sense, which gave him a unique, often controversial lens on Native identity. His provocative imagery and refusal to conform to cultural expectations made a lasting impact, helping to reinvent Native American art within the broader canon of Post-War and Contemporary American art. His fascinating and creative synthesis of his cultural identity and contemporary American art movements allowed him to redefine both. Scholder pushed boundaries and critically challenged existing traditions, working to shift Native American art from an overly romanticized category plucked from nineteenth-century stereotypes to a thriving part of the contemporary art world. Paintings like Four Indian Riders defy classification—transcending the categories of traditional, modern, Pop, Indian, not Indian—and continue to provoke intrigue and attention as the viewer ponders these contradictions alongside Fritz Scholder. Freeman’s is a premier American auction house offering services in multiple categories including fine art, jewelry, design, books and manuscripts, furniture, decorative arts, antiquities, couture, and Asian works of art. With 16 regional locations nationwide, the firm provides auctions, appraisals, private sales, and art advisory services, connecting clients to the global art market. Freeman’s strives to bring art, history, and design to life by connecting people with extraordinary objects through exceptional service and expertise.
Freeman’s | Hindman is proud to announce the sale of James Ensor’s rediscovered 1936 still life, Chinoiseries Fleuries, in its upcoming Impressionist and Modern Art auction on April 30 in Philadelphia. Estimated at $150,000–250,000, the canvas makes its first-ever appearance at auction after remaining hidden in a private New Orleans collection for over 50 years. This rare work is one of only a few oils by Ensor entirely devoted to chinoiseries—Asian decorative objects the artist often depicted with playful reverence. The pots, vases, and figurines portrayed in the oil were part of Ensor’s daily life, drawn directly from his family souvenir shop in Ostend, Belgium. “We are thrilled to offer such an important work,” says Raphaël Chatroux, Head of Sale. “Still lifes make up nearly a third of Ensor’s work. This piece is essential for understanding his personality and technique—how he perceived the world through light and color.” James Ensor In Studio Image Courtesy of Mu.ZEE, City of Ostend Collection Executed when the artist was in his 70s, Chinoiseries Fleuries showcases Ensor’s unique blend of Impressionism and Surrealism, arranged in a delicate symphony of pinks. Its reappearance comes shortly after Belgium celebrates the 75th anniversary of Ensor’s death—a timely homage to a visionary artist who is rare on the market. Modern Gems Alongside the Ensor oil, Freeman’s | Hindman's April 30 auction features a strong lineup of Post-Impressionist and Modern works. Leading the sale is Henri Le Sidaner’s serene Le Banc (1903), estimated at $200,000–300,000. Set in the artist’s garden in Gerberoy (North of France), the glowing scene captures a resting dog beneath golden summer light—a dreamlike moment typical of Le Sidaner’s poetic, pointillist style. The canvas, which boasts the hallmarks of the artist’s best oils, belonged to the Comédie Française actor “Coquelin cadet " and famed Parisian gallerist Georges Petit. Lot 13 | Henri Le Sidaner (French, 1862-1939) | Le Banc (Gerberoy), 1903 | Estimate: $200,000 - 300,000 Lot 23 | Suzanne Valadon (French, 1865-1938) | Nus à la Toilette, 1908 | Estimate: $120,000 - 180,000 Another standout is Suzanne Valadon’s 1908 canvas, Nus à la Toilette, estimated at $120,000–180,000. Executed during a pivotal year in the artist’s career, the work presents a bold reinterpretation of the classical bather motif, challenging traditional portrayals of the female nude with raw, modern candor. The painting comes to the market at a timely moment, coinciding with the significant Valadon retrospective currently on view at the Centre Pompidou in Paris—the first since 1967, when Nus à la Toilette was last exhibited there. Its re-emergence is expected to draw strong interest from both collectors and institutions worldwide. Prestigious Provenance The April 30th auction features many works from noteworthy private collections. Two surrealist works by Spanish artist Olga Sacharoff, come from the Estate of Helen Scott—an acclaimed pianist and wife of Robert Montgomery Scott, former President and CEO of the Philadelphia Museum of Art (1982-1996). Quite coincidentally, works by Ossip Zadkine and Jean Souverbie come from the Collection of Robert Sturgis Ingersoll, another former president of the Philadelphia Museum of Art (1948-1964). Lot 9 | Olga Sacharoff (Russian, 1889-1967) | La Chasse, c. 1923 | Estimate: $20,000 - 30,000 Lot 27 | Pierre-Auguste Renoir (French, 1841-1919) | Nu Allongé, c. 1890 | Estimate: $150,000 - 250,000 A luminous pastel by Pierre-Auguste Renoir and an intriguing Odilon Redon oil also come fresh to market from the Collection of Dr. John Hagelin, a renowned physicist, peace advocate, and pioneer in the study of consciousness. Hagelin, President Emeritus of Maharishi International University, has addressed the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates in 2023 and 2024 and is recognized globally for his "Theory of Everything" and research on meditation and the brain. Additional Highlights The sale also features standout works by Roberto Matta, Louis Anquetin, Diego Rivera, Camille Pissarro, Henri Martin, and many others. Of special note are eight works by Lê Phổ, the celebrated Franco-Vietnamese artist often sold at Freeman’s | Hindman. Led by the very large La Clarté d’Été, the works reflect the artist’s East-meets-West aesthetic and long-standing collaboration with dealer Wally Findlay. Lot 44 | Le Pho (French/Vietnamese, 1907-2001) | La Clarté d'Été, c. 1975 | Estimate: $180,000 - 220,000
Freeman’s | Hindman is delighted to share early highlights from Lincoln’sLegacy:Historic Americana from the Life of Abraham Lincoln, a landmark public auction of manuscripts, letters, campaign ephemera, keepsakes and personal effects that chronicle the extraordinary life of America’s 16th President. The auction will be presented live and online on May 21, 2025 at Freeman’s | Hindman Chicago headquarters in Lincoln’s home state of Illinois. Lincoln’s Legacy is presented on behalf of the Lincoln Presidential Foundation, a national non-profit, which owns an extensive collection of Lincoln-related historic materials. The Foundation has entrusted Freeman’s | Hindman with the sale of approximately 140 carefully-selected items from the collection, while retaining 1,400 varied and important items for continued scholarly research, programming, and loan exhibitions. The objects featured in the sale are representative of all phases of Abraham Lincoln’s life – from his teenage years through to his tragic death by assassination – and underscores the widespread continuing appeal of his legacy. Individual lot estimates will range from $100 up to $800,000, and the total sale is expected to achieve in excess of $4 million. Throughout the months of April and May, Freeman’s | Hindman will host public previews of items from the sale via a five-city tour, with stops at the auction house’s locations in New York City, Palm Beach, Philadelphia, Cincinnati and Chicago. complete auction catalogue will be available in print and online prior to sale. Freeman’s | Hindman CEO Alyssa Quinlan stated: “As America’s oldest auction house, Freeman’s|HindmanishonoredtobringthisexceptionalselectionofLincolnianatomarket.Each of theitemsfeatured in this salehas been curatedwith care, toreveal anuanced and at times surprising portraitofthepersonwhowouldbecomeoneofAmerica’sgreatestleaders.Ourfirm hasalonghistoryofsuccesswithimportantAmericanmanuscriptsandPresidentialmaterial,and we look forward to welcoming both private collectors and institutions to our preview events across the country this April, leading up to the auction on May 21.” Christopher Brink, Senior Specialist and Head of Sale, Books & Manuscripts, noted, “Inthehistoryofthe category of American presidential material, this selection is among the most significant to come to auction. The sale includes a number of items previously acquired directly from Lincoln’s descendants,andmanymore that will be makingtheirfirstappearanceatpublicauction.” Tour Highlights The earliest known example of Lincoln’s writing, dating from when he was about 15 years old, is featured on a double-sided sum book leaf covered in long division practice sums and signed three times. In one corner, he displays a wry, teenaged humor, writing: “Abraham Lincoln ismyname /And with my pen I wrote / the same /I wrote in both hast and speed / and left it here for fools / to read” (detail image at right; estimate: $300,000-$400,000). Lincoln’s early endeavors in state-level politics are documented through rare printed materials. In 1837, he was the author of the anonymous Adams Handbill, a printed notice to the public that was distributed on the streets of Springfield, Illinois in the run-up to that year’s contentious local elections. Printed on a single sheet in three columns, the handbill is the only known surviving copy of the first printed work by Abraham Lincoln (estimate: $200,000-300,000). Personal effects from Lincoln and his family will be featured throughout the sale, including wearable items, early photographs, and small keepsakes. Among the tour highlights are two items President Lincoln wore to Ford’s Theatre on the night of his assassination on April 14, 1865: a single cuff button (estimate: $200,000-300,000) and a pair of white kid gloves stained with blood (pictured at left: estimate: $800,000-1,200,000). Also featured is a white marble sculpture, completed by the sculptor Leonard Wells Volk in 1869, which elegantly memorializes Lincoln with a depiction of his right hand (estimate: $5,000-7,000). Among the important historical documents featured in the sale is a rare first printing of Lincoln’s celebrated Second Inaugural Address (pictured at right; estimate: $40,000-60,000). Consisting of only 701 words, Lincoln’s speech remains one of the most admired of his writings, in which he calls for national unity and compassion, encapsulated in his famous words: "With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation's wounds". In his essay on President Lincoln, General Carl Schurz referred to the speech as "a sacred poem” in which "[Lincoln] poured out the whole devotion and tenderness of his great soul.” Historic Americana at Freeman’s | Hindman Among auction houses, Freeman’s | Hindman is a clear market leader in the broad category of historic Americana, which seeks to illuminate the political, social and cultural history of the United States. Building on the nationally-recognized excellence of Cowan’s Auctions in the category, Freeman’s | Hindman Books & Manuscripts and American Historical Ephemera Departments bring to market exceptional artifacts, printed materials, early photography, ephemera and more, working with private collectors and major institutions across the U.S. Recent top prices for highly-sought-after historical documents include $4.4 million for a Signer’s copy of the DeclarationofIndependence– the highest auction price ever achieved for an American document printed in the 19th century; $2.4 million for an 1787 letter from George Washington toThomasJeffersontransmitting a copy of the U.S. Constitution, doubling its pre-sale estimate; and most recently, $2 million for a rare ink wash drawing gifted to PresidentGeorge Washington by the Marquis de Lafayette, which nearly quadrupled its low estimate after an intense ten-minute bidding battle in the saleroom. Lincoln’sLegacy:HistoricAmericanafromtheLifeofAbrahamLincoln Exhibition Schedule: New York: April 1 – 4 Palm Beach: April 10 – 11, April 14 – 17 Philadelphia: April 23 – 26 Cincinnati: April 29 – May 2 Chicago: May 12 – 21 Auction: May 21 at 10am CT (live and online bidding) Freeman’s | Hindman Chicago 1550 W Carroll Street, Chicago, IL PressPreviewandPhoto Opportunity: April 1, 2025 from 10am – 1pm Freeman’s | Hindman New York 32 East 67th Street, NY, NY RSVP to press@hindmanauctions.com Freeman’s is a premier American auction house offering services in multiple categories including fine art, jewelry, design, books and manuscripts, furniture, decorative arts, antiquities, couture, and Asian works of art. With 16 regional locations nationwide, the firm provides auctions, appraisals, private sales, and art advisory services, connecting clients to the global art market. Freeman’s strives to bring art, history, and design to life by connecting people with extraordinary objects through exceptional service and expertise.
Freeman’s | Hindman made quite the impression in its first appearance as an official auction house partner in Asia Week New York as its March 21 Asian Works of Art auction sailing past its high estimate on the way to a $1.7 million total. The auction featured a remarkable array of Chinese ceramics, gold jewelry, jade, and textiles, alongside Japanese bronzes, Korean paintings, and Indian and Himalayan Buddhist figures, showcasing the richness and diversity of Asian art. “It was truly an honor for us to be in such esteemed company as an official auction house partner of Asia Week New York,” said Annie Wu, Vice President and Head of the Asian Art department. “We were thrilled not only by the overall auction result, but by the overwhelmingly positive response to our events and previews, not to mention the attendance of the auction itself. It was so good to see a crowded saleroom filled with enthusiastic bidders.” LEFT TO RIGHT A Rare Yixing 'Eggplant' Coupe with Impressed Seal 'Yuan' and Wood Stand | Sold for $254,500 A Rare Yixing Zisha Pottery Octagonal Cup with Impressed Seal 'Chen Mingyuan' | Sold for $241,800 A Rare Yixing Peach-Form 'Figure' Puzzle Cup with Impressed Seals 'Chen', 'Mingyuan' and Wood Stand | Sold for $140,200 The Work of a Master Without doubt, the highlight of the auction was a trio of extraordinary Yixing Zisha pottery pieces attributed to the renowned 17th-century master Chen Mingyuan offered in a row just 30 lots into the auction. As Lot 31, the first of the trio to be offered, was introduced, the phone bank came to life as bidders from around the world in both English and Mandarin began enthusiastically bidding on the pieces against several interested parties in the room. The buzz in the room was palpable for the better part of 15 minutes as the three lots in quick succession created a flurry of activity. When the hammer fell on the last of Chen Mingyuan pieces, the auction house had achieved $636,500. The top lot of the group was an exquisitely modeled Yixing ‘Eggplant’ Coupe (Lot 33), which sold for $254,500, more than quadruple its presale estimate moments after a Yixing Zisha Octagonal Cup (Lot 32) also quadrupled its presale estimate when it sold for $241,800. a rare Yixing Peach-Form 'Figure' Puzzle Cup (Lot 31) had started the frenzy by more than doubling its estimate, selling for $140,200. These exceptional works, once part of the renowned collection of Shanghai collector Pang Yuanji (1864-1947), exemplified Chen’s masterful trompe l’oeil craftsmanship and intricate detailing that have captivated collectors for centuries. Pang, a pivotal figure in the early 20th-century appreciation of Yixing wares, documented his collection in a rare two-volume compendium, in which rubbings and descriptions of these pieces are included. Most recently held in the distinguished collection of Mr. Jay Butterman—acquired from legendary dealers Edith and Joel Frankel—these pieces hold a fascinating provenance and a direct link to an important era of collecting. Blue and White Surprises Among the many pleasant surprises on the day was a pair of blue and white porcelain vases from the Transitional Period that shattered their estimates and set the early tone of the auction. A 17th-century Chinese blue and white porcelain cylindrical vase (Lot 16) immediately eclipsed its presale estimate of $3,000 – 4,000 before ultimately selling for $70,350. The enthusiasm carried over to the next lot, sending another 17th-century Chinese blue and white porcelain vase, this one a “Figure” Gu vase (Lot 17), to nearly 10 times its estimate before selling for $38,400. Other Highlights The auction saw lots from across the entire spectrum of the category exceed their estimates and sell for impressive prices. Among the many highlights were: Lot 93 A Pair of Chinese Gemstone and Pearl-Inlaid Gold ‘Butterfly and Chrysanthemum’ Earrings, Erhuan, Ming Dynasty Sold for $70,350 Lot 18 A Pair of Chinese Yellow Glazed Incised Porcelain 'Dragon' Dishes, Qianlong Marks and of the Period Sold for $64,000 Lot 125 Attributed to Lee Taek-Gyun (Korean, 1808-after 1883) Books and Scholars’ Accoutrements (Chaekgeori) Ink and color on paper, four-panel floor screen, ebonized wood frame Sold for $51,200 Lot 50 A Chinese Carved Pale Celadon Jade Tripod Vessel, Jia, Late Qing - Early Republic Period Sold for $35,200 Freeman’s is a premier American auction house offering services in multiple categories including fine art, jewelry, design, books and manuscripts, furniture, decorative arts, antiquities, couture, and Asian works of art. With 16 regional locations nationwide, the firm provides auctions, appraisals, private sales, and art advisory services, connecting clients to the global art market. Freeman’s strives to bring art, history, and design to life by connecting people with extraordinary objects through exceptional service and expertise.
Freeman’s Important Jewelry auction, held on March 20 at the firm’s Chicago saleroom, achieved impressive results, totaling nearly $2.5 million with a strong 91% sell-through rate by lot and 117% by value.
Freeman’s | Hindman’s Printed and Manuscript Americana auction on January 29 delivered an extraordinary performance, achieving nearly $1.2 million—more than double its pre-sale estimates. Held in Philadelphia following a preview during the firm’s inaugural Americana Week exhibition in New York, the auction saw an impressive 188% sell-through rate by value, with 89% of lots successfully sold. Printed Broadside of George Washington's First Inaugural Speech Sold for $381,500 The results underscore the strong demand for rare Americana, led by an exceptional selection of Presidential material. The auction’s top lot, a Printed Broadside of George Washington’s First Inaugural Address (Lot 56), shattered expectations, soaring past its $15,000–25,000 estimate to achieve $381,500. While newspaper printings of Washington’s address are relatively common, broadside editions are exceptionally rare—this Providence printing is one of only two known surviving copies, with the other housed at The Henry Ford Museum. Other highlights included a first edition of The Federalist (Lot 32), authored by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay, which fetched $127,500 against a $60,000–90,000 estimate. Additionally, a Rare Broadside of Abraham Lincoln’s first inaugural address (Lot 39), printed in the mid-19th century, realized $19,200, surpassing its $5,000–8,000 estimate. Only two other examples of this printing have ever appeared at auction, with another copy held at the Library of Congress. Materials from three landmark expeditions to the American West—led by acclaimed photographer Joseph K. Dixon and funded by philanthropist Rodman Wanamaker to document the lives and cultures of Native American communities—drew remarkable attention during the sale. Notably, Dixon’s original diary from the Second Wanamaker Expedition (Lot 48) achieved an impressive $54,400, far surpassing its pre-sale estimate of $6,000–9,000. While Dixon’s Original Typed Manuscript for "The Vanishing Race" (Lot 49) was estimated at $3,000 – 5,000 and sold for $25,600. The expertly curated sale also showcased a remarkable selection of works by American naturalist John James Audubon, including his Wild Turkey (Lot 15, sold for $54,400), Fish Hawk (Lot 14, sold for $44,800), and the sought-after first octavo edition of Birds of America (Lot 11, sold for $38,400), amongst other notable lots. Darren Winston, Senior Vice President and Head of the Books and Manuscripts Department, Philadelphia, stated: “We are absolutely thrilled with the results of the Printed and Manuscript Americana sale. It was full of surprises—some truly remarkable ones—and a reminder that what we are able to bring to market for our consignors has a strong audience in our buyers. The enduring interest in American history and the natural world is both inspiring and deeply appreciated!” Other Notable Auction Highlights · Lot 20 | Birch, W(illiam). The City of Philadelphia. First Edition. Sold for $41,600 · Lot 27 | (Eliot, John). New Englands First Fruits. First Edition Sold for $51,200 · Lot 30 | [Franklin, Benjamin] Saunders, Richard. Poor Richard improved...For the Year...1756... Sold for $38,400 · Lot 37 | Jefferson, Thomas. Autograph Letter, signed Sold for $32,000 Learn more about Books and Manuscripts at Freeman's | Hindman Freeman’s is a premier American auction house offering services in multiple categories including fine art, jewelry, design, books and manuscripts, furniture, decorative arts, antiquities, couture, and Asian works of art. With 16 regional locations nationwide, the firm provides auctions, appraisals, private sales, and art advisory services, connecting clients to the global art market. Freeman’s strives to bring art, history, and design to life by connecting people with extraordinary objects through exceptional service and expertise.
Freeman’s | Hindman is honored to announce its inaugural participation in Americana Week, from January 18-27, 2025. The exhibition will showcase outstanding historical objects and fine art reflecting American history's rich tapestry. A highlight of the presentation will be Selections from the Millhiser Collection of Fine Americana, featuring exquisite furniture and decorative arts amassed by Bessie and E. Ross Millhiser. As pioneering collectors, the Millhisers curated notable examples of Philadelphia, Newport, Boston, Southern Queen Anne, and Chippendale furniture from renowned dealers, including Israel Sack, Joseph Kindig, and Ginsburg & Levy, during the 1930s and 40s. Highlights include (Lot 5) a rare set of six Queen Anne walnut compass-seat side chairs, (Lot 13) a Philadelphia Chippendale carved walnut dressing table, and (Lot 17) a Bertie County, North Carolina butternut tall chest, dated 1797. The auction will take place on January 27th in the firm’s New York saleroom and is available for live and online bidding. Andrew Taggart, Specialist, American Furniture, Folk & Decorative Art, summarizes the sale. “This tightly assembled sale speaks to the early collecting practice of American furniture connoisseurs in the U.S., with provenance from prominent dealers, including Israel Sack. Collectors love pieces that have been held in private collections for a significant amount of time, and they will surely appreciate that the earliest purchases date back to the 1930s. The types of items also reveal the Millhisers' adept selection of different regional forms, with items scattered in terms of their origin—Philadelphia, New England, and the South are all represented." Gemma Sudlow, Managing Director, New York, elaborates. “As America’s oldest auction house, hosting our inaugural New York Americana week sale and exhibitions in our newly expanded gallery and sale room at 32 East 67 Street is a landmark moment for the firm. The content on display in our galleries affirms our deep and enduring commitment to offering American pictures, furniture, decorative arts, books, manuscripts, and historical ephemera to our US and international client community. Our powerful and storied nation is celebrated in these exhibitions and auctions, and we look forward to welcoming you this January and throughout our spring season here at Freeman’s I Hindman.” Modern and Historical Treasures: Coins, Currency, Printed Americana, and Jewelry Other highlights on view during Americana Week from January 18-27 include Modern Perfection: Coins and Currency from a Wyoming Estate, Printed and Manuscript Americana, Fine American and European Art, and selections from our spring Important Jewelry auctions. Selections from Modern Perfection: Coins and Currency from a Wyoming Estate Kicking off the month is Modern Perfection: Coins and Currency from a Wyoming Estate, a timed online auction now available for bidding through January 23rd. The sale offers a vast 140 lots of gold, silver, and platinum coins from across the world. Signifying a flawless strike, these coins represent a small fraction of the total number of coins minted and are considered the pinnacle example of the coins. Lot 20 | Birch, W(illiam). The City of Philadelphia. First Edition | Estimate: $40,000 - 60,000 Concluding the month’s offerings is our Printed and Manuscript Americana sale, to be held on January 29th in the firm’s Philadelphia saleroom. This highly anticipated auction features exceptional highlights, including (Lot 32) a first edition of The Federalist ($60,000-$90,000), (Lot 20) a hand-colored first edition of William Birch’s The City of Philadelphia ($40,000-$60,000), (Lot 27) John Eliot’s New Englands First Fruits ($40,000-$60,000), and (Lot 37) a signed letter by Thomas Jefferson discussing the first federally constructed highway ($25,000-$35,000). In addition to the lots offered during Americana Week, Freeman’s | Hindman’s gallery will showcase jewelry by American designers Tiffany & Co., David Webb, and Oscar Heyman coming to auction in spring. A Rare Dave Drake Alkaline Glazed 30-Gallon Two-Handled Stoneware Crock | Estimate Available Upon Request The exhibition will also highlight a rare Dave Drake alkaline glazed 30-gallon two-handled stoneware crock dated to 1859, to be offered in our April American Furniture, Folk and Decorative Arts auction in Philadelphia. Other Top Lots Include: Selections from the Millhiser Collection of Fine Americana · Lot 18 | A Federal Brass Dial Mahogany Shelf Clock | Estimate: $10,000 - 20,000 · Lot 1 | A William and Mary Turned Maple Gate-Leg Table | Estimate: $4,000 - 6,000 Printed and Manuscript Americana · Lot 15 | Audubon, John James. Wild Turkey | Estimate: $30,000 - 50,000 · Lot 56 | Printed Broadside of Washington's First Inaugural Speech | Estimate: $15,000 - 25,000 Modern Perfection: Coins and Currency from a Wyoming Estate · Lot 102 | A 2013-W Gold Buffalo: 100th Anniversary Early Release $50 1 oz. Gold Reverse Proof (NGC MS70) | Estimate: $2,200 - 2,800 · Lot 148 | A US Mint Issued Silver Eagle: Monster Box 500 $1 Silver Coin Sealed Box | Estimate: $20,000 - 30,000 Exhibition Times: January 18-27 Weekdays: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Saturday, January 18: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM Saturday, January 25: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM Closed: Sunday, January 19 Closed: Sunday, January 26
Freeman’s | Hindman, one of the nation’s premier auction houses, is proud to announce the appointment of Julia Fitzgerald as Chief Marketing Officer. Fitzgerald brings over 20 years of executive leadership experience in branding, digital marketing, and transformative marketing strategies to her new role. Her expertise will support the company’s continued growth and accelerate its digital evolution. Fitzgerald is recognized for her innovative branding approach and ability to connect with audiences through digital and omni-channel campaigns. Most recently, she served as Chief Marketing Officer for Build-A-Bear, leading a brand refresh that expanded the company’s appeal beyond its traditional audience, resulting in increased visibility and customer engagement. Her career also includes key leadership roles at the American Lung Association, Sears Holdings, Vtech, and Hallmark, where she demonstrated her expertise in digital transformation and impactful marketing strategies. At Freeman’s | Hindman, Fitzgerald will focus on leveraging the combined strengths of the recently unified auction houses to expand the company’s national presence. With a new location in New York and a growing portfolio of high-profile auctions, her leadership will play a key role in engaging collectors across digital platforms and telling the stories behind remarkable artwork, collections, and the specialists who bring them to market. “Julia’s proven track record of strategic leadership and her deep understanding of digital and consumer marketing align perfectly with our vision for the future,” said CEO Alyssa Quinlan. “Her appointment underscores our commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional client experiences.” Fitzgerald holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and has authored the Amazon best-selling book Midsize, highlighting effective marketing strategies for midsize companies. She is a guest lecturer at the Kellogg School of Management and The Ohio State University’s Fisher School of Business. About Freeman’s | Hindman Freeman’s | Hindman merged in 2024 to create a global team of experienced specialists who embrace tradition and innovation, creating a truly client-centric auction house. As America’s oldest auction house, Freeman’s has been an active part of the auction world and art market for nearly 220 years. Hindman, established in 1982, brings an expansive cross-country network, wealth of expertise, and strong relationships with fiduciaries nationwide to build a market-leading auctions and appraisals firm in Freeman’s | Hindman.
Diamonds, sapphires, and a brooch worn by an iconic American woman led Freeman’s | Hindman’s inaugural Important Jewelry auction in the firm’s New York saleroom on December 12, realizing a sale total of $3.8 million and sell-through rate by value of 92%. The day's top lot was a Diamond and Platinum Ring, fetching $190,500 against a low estimate of $80,000. The ring was offered amongst a dazzling display of sapphires, colored stones, and jewelry from notable private collections, including Property from the Estate of Armene Lamson Milliken, The Shawver Art Trust Collection and Property of the George Elkins Family, Prominent Philadelphians. The auction attracted 670 participants from 20 countries, with 11% of bidders new to the firm. Continuing the day’s success was a Cartier, Art Deco, Kashmir Sapphire and Diamond Ring that sold for $107,950. The Art Deco marvel from a private southern New Jersey collection skyrocketed past its estimate due to a trifecta creating a perfect storm: the Art Deco period, Cartier, and an unheated Kashmir sapphire. Other standout lots of the day included a Fancy Intense Orangy Pink Diamond Ring, smashing its estimate of $15,000 with a price realized of $47,625, and an Emerald, Yellow Gold and Greek Coin Brooch once owned and worn by Jacqueline Kennedy, selling for $20,955 against a low estimate of $6,000. Speaking to her impressions of the sale is April Matteini, Senior Vice President, Head of Department, Jewelry. “Yesterday’s auction in New York was a testament to the continued demand for high-quality jewelry with excellent provenance. We were particularly pleased with the results of the top lots. Sapphires, rubies, and diamond prices were buoyed by spirited bidding in the saleroom and from around the globe. We are looking forward to continuing the momentum into 2025.” Reflecting on the sale is Senior Vice President Jewelry and Watches, Dianne Batista. “The inaugural New York City Important Jewelry auction held at the Beaux Arts Upper East Side gallery on East 67th Street welcomed a bevy of bidders, creating excitement and bidding competition. The collection of jewelry from the estate of Armene Lamson Milliken, a New York society fixture, featured the Verdura diamond and platinum ring that sold for $127,000. Sapphires continue to bring strong prices at Freeman’s Hindman with two in the top ten.” Additional Highlights | Important Jewelry Auction · Lot 201 | VERDURA, DIAMOND AND PLATINUM RING | Sold for $127,000 · Lot 197 | DIAMOND RING | Sold for $101,600 · Lot 142 | J.E. CALDWELL, ART DECO, COLOR CHANGE SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND RING | Sold for $88,900 · Lot 109 | BURMESE RUBY AND PLATINUM BRACELET | Sold for $82,550 Freeman’s is a premier American auction house offering services in multiple categories including fine art, jewelry, design, books and manuscripts, furniture, decorative arts, antiquities, couture, and Asian works of art. With 16 regional locations nationwide, the firm provides auctions, appraisals, private sales, and art advisory services, connecting clients to the global art market. Freeman’s strives to bring art, history, and design to life by connecting people with extraordinary objects through exceptional service and expertise.
Freeman’s | Hindman is proud to present the December 12th Important Jewelry auction in New York, featuring a dazzling showcase of rare colored gemstones, stunning diamonds, and remarkable jewelry from prominent collections nationwide. Highlights include treasures from the Estates of Armene Lamson Milliken of New York, the George Elkins family, Prominent Philadelphians, and Chicago actress and philanthropist Merle Reskin. The auction will also feature pieces from iconic jewelry houses like Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, David Webb, Marina B, and Tiffany & Co. Additionally, an exquisite H. Stern collection will be auctioned, with proceeds supporting the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida. Finally, the sale includes a unique collection of artist-designed pieces, including extraordinary works by William Harper from the Collection of Riva Margalit. Speaking to the sale is April Matteini, Senior Vice President and Head of Department, Jewelry: “The Freeman's | Hindman December 12 Important Jewelry auction is all about color. From a rare color change sapphire, an exquisite set by H. Stern featuring a spectacular tricolor tourmaline to the bold enamels of a collection of artist-designed jewelry, the sale offers an array of fresh to-the-market pieces from estates and private collections from California to South Florida.” Also speaking to the sale is Dianne Batista, Senior Vice President, Jewelry & Watches. “We are thrilled to be offering this Important Jewelry auction at our New York City townhouse location on the Upper East Side alongside the world's finest jewelry boutiques on Madison Avenue. This auction allows our clients to shop for unique jewelry with fine provenance. Colored diamonds continue to be rare and sought after, and two of my favorites in this auction are a Colored Diamond and Diamond Bracelet (Lot 189) and a Diamond and Fancy Colored Diamond Pendant (Lot 116), both from the Shawver Art Trust Collection.” Jewelry from the Estate of Armene Lamson Milliken of New York Although born in Seattle, Armene Lamson Milliken, was a fixture of New York society. She had an eye for interior design and loved to entertain, whether with her friends at the Colony Club, in her home with family, or at one of the many gala events she was involved with supporting, including Memorial Sloane Kettering, The Boys Club of New York, The Central Park Conservancy and more. In 1955, she graced the cover of LIFE magazine as Mrs. Averall Clark, Jr., bringing new elegance to the U.S. social scene. Her second husband, Mr. Averall Clark, Jr. was a Flying Ace in WW II and later President of Condor Mining Co. One of the sale's top highlights is a Verdura, Diamond, and Platinum Ring (Lot 201) featuring an emerald-cut diamond weighing 8.10 carats, with trapezoid and baguette-cut accent diamonds weighing approximately 0.85 carats each. The jewelry showcased in this sale from Ms. Milliken’s collection exemplifies her glamorous and storied life. Property of the George Elkins family, Prominent Philadelphians The Elkins family's philanthropic legacy continues to enrich Philadelphia today, rooted in the vision of William Lukens Elkins (1832-1903), a Gilded Age businessman, art collector, and founder of the Philadelphia Orchestra. A pioneer in the oil industry and partner in the Philadelphia Rapid Transit Company, Elkins used his wealth to support the city's cultural development, including founding an American art prize and donating paintings to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Elkins' daughter, Eleanor, a Titanic survivor, later established the Widener Memorial Library at Harvard, which houses one of the nation's most significant book collections. His son, George W. Elkins, founded Abingdon Memorial Hospital, and his granddaughter Stella Elkins Tyler, a sculptor and patron, donated her estate to become the Tyler School of Fine Arts at Temple University. Philadelphia's renowned J.E. Caldwell & Co., founded in 1839, became known for its fine jewelry and silver, including Art Deco designs, in the 1920s. The Elkins family frequently turned to Caldwell for their jewelry, and this important Art Deco sapphire and diamond ring (Lot 142) is a lasting symbol of their legacy in American and Philadelphia jewelry history. Other Top Lots Include: · Lot 206 | DIAMOND RING, 10.89 Carats | Estimate: $80,000 - 120,000 · Lot 188 | FANCY INTENSE YELLOW DIAMOND AND DIAMOND RING | Estimate: $70,000 - 90,000 · Lot 189 | COLORED DIAMOND AND DIAMOND BRACELET | Estimate: $60,000 - 90,000 · Lot 163 | WILLIAM HARPER, GROTESQUE SELF-PORTRAIT OF THE ARTIST AS AN 'ENFANT TERRIBLE' BROOCH 1990 | Estimate: $10,000 - 15,000 How to Bid Important Jewelry will be offered on December 12 at Freeman’s | Hindman’s New York saleroom. Bidding will be available in-person, via absentee and telephone bid, and online via our Digital Bid Room. Freeman’s is a premier American auction house offering services in multiple categories including fine art, jewelry, design, books and manuscripts, furniture, decorative arts, antiquities, couture, and Asian works of art. With 16 regional locations nationwide, the firm provides auctions, appraisals, private sales, and art advisory services, connecting clients to the global art market. Freeman’s strives to bring art, history, and design to life by connecting people with extraordinary objects through exceptional service and expertise.
Freeman’s | Hindman’s December 8 auction of American Art and Pennsylvania Impressionists promises an exceptional lineup of works from prestigious private and institutional collections. Anchored by Thomas Hart Benton’s The Doctor (1952), the auction features Civil War-era oils by David Gilmour Blythe, iconic Hudson River School landscapes, and masterpieces of American Impressionism by Childe Hassam, Willard Leroy Metcalf, and Louis Ritman. Highlights also include a curated selection of illustrations by Norman Rockwell, N. C. Wyeth, and Stevan Dohanos, as well as celebrated Pennsylvania Impressionists like Fern Coppedge and George Sotter. Adam Veil, Vice President and Head of the American Art department, remarked: "Once more, Freeman's | Hindman is proud to be entrusted with broadly appealing and historically significant works from important private collections. The weather notwithstanding, we're confident the market will respond warmly on December 8th." Esteemed Provenance The auction showcases standout works from the Buck Family Collection, amassed by William “Bill” Clifton Buck (1928–2023) and Laura Thomas Buck (1931–2024). Esteemed Philadelphia philanthropists and art enthusiasts, the Bucks supported institutions such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation. Their collection includes works by Maurice B. Prendergast, Willard Leroy Metcalf, and William Glackens, reflecting their refined taste and legacy of cultural contribution. Building on the successful sale of works by Bernard Buffet, Henri Jean Guillaume Martin, Gustave Loiseau, and other celebrated artists from the distinguished Estate of Dr. John Talbot Gernon and Mrs. Rosetta Place Gernon during Freeman’s | Hindman’s October Impressionist and Modern Art auction, we are delighted to present two more remarkable pieces from this collection in our December 8th sale: Birger Sandzén’s Above the Timberline and Edward Henry Potthast’s Lake Louise, Morning. Notable Lots Lot 8 | David Gilmour Blythe, Man Putting On Socks (Union Soldier Washing His Feet), 1861 Estimate: $50,000 – 80,000 David Gilmour Blythe, known for his keen satirical perspective, captures a rare and intimate glimpse into the daily life of a Union soldier during the Civil War. Based on sketches Blythe created while embedded with the Thirteenth Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers, this painting depicts a soldier washing his feet and putting on socks by a stream. This work exemplifies Blythe's talent for blending poignant detail with social commentary, offering a compelling alternative to traditional battlefield imagery. Lot 21 | Thomas Wilmer Dewing, The Music Lesson, 1921 Estimate: $200,000 – 300,000 Thomas Wilmer Dewing’s The Music Lesson is a prime example of his mature work, showcasing the influence of Tonalism with a muted color palette and soft, diffused light. The painting features an elegant young woman in quiet engagement, capturing a timeless atmosphere of contemplation. Dewing merges romantic and classical traditions with modern techniques, drawing influence from artists like Whistler and Vermeer. Lot 65 | Thomas Hart Benton, The Doctor, 1952 Estimate: $200,000 – 300,000 This striking portrait by Thomas Hart Benton depicts Dr. Edwin Schorer, created during a summer spent at Max Eastman’s Martha’s Vineyard home in 1952. The painting retains its original frame, crafted by Benton’s wife, Rita P. Benton, and is accompanied by the tie Dr. Schorer wore in the portrait. Benton’s depiction extends beyond a simple likeness, capturing a moment of personal connection and storytelling. The boy in the portrait, George Davis Jr., is the son of Commander Davis of the United States Navy, adding a personal and historical layer to this intimate depiction. Lot 124 | N. C. Wyeth, "Now, mark me, mine host," Sir Daniel said, "follow but mine orders and I shall be your good lord ever," 1916 Estimate: $120,000 – 180,000 N. C. Wyeth’s striking illustration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel The Black Arrow vividly captures the tension of the Wars of the Roses. In this scene, the cunning Sir Daniel Brackley commands the innkeeper with chilling authority, reflecting the period's political and moral ambiguity. Wyeth’s expert manipulation of light and shadow amplifies the drama, demonstrating the near-constant threat of violence that hangs over its characters. This work exemplifies Wyeth’s ability to translate Stevenson’s themes of loyalty, betrayal, and power into visually compelling compositions. Additional Highlights Include: · Lot 4 | John Frederick Kensett, Evening on Contentment Island, 1872 Estimate $80,000 – 120,000 · Lot 17 | Maria Oakey Dewing, Still Life with Irises, Poppies, and Mignonettes in a Blue Vase Estimate $100,000 – 150,000 · Lot 36 | Childe Hassam, The Bather (The Bather I), 1904 Estimate $150,000 – 250,000 · Lot 59 | Charles E. Burchfield, Storm over Irondale, 1920 Estimate $50,000 – 80,000 · Lot 66 | Dale Nichols, Wyoming Harvest Estimate $30,000 – 50,000 · Lot 84 | Childe Hassam, September Sunlight, c. 1887 Estimate $250,000 – 400,000 · Lot 93 | Andrew Wyeth, Park Sign, 1955 Estimate $60,000 – 100,000 · Lot 127 | Norman Rockwell, Study for Happy Birthday Miss Jones Estimate $60,000 – 100,000 · Lot 144 | Louis Ritman, Girl with a Fan, Giverny, 1914 Estimate $60,000 – 80,000 · Lot 159 | Milton Avery, Horses in Spring, c. 1936 Estimate $100,000 – 150,000 Sale Preview The sale preview will be on view from December 4 through December 7, 10AM – 5PM ET, at Freeman’s | Hindman’s Philadelphia showroom located at 2400 Market Street, and on December 8 by appointment only.
Freeman’s | Hindman’s Fine Printed Books and Manuscripts, Including Americana auction on November 14 delivered an impressive total of $1.85 million far surpassing pre-sale expectations. Featuring standout collections of printed Americana and natural history manuscripts, the auction achieved a remarkable sell-through rate by value of 145%, with 92% of lots successfully sold. The Federalist (NY, 1788) (Lot 299) was the top lot of the day, demonstrating the enduring demand for important Americana. Gretchen Hause, Senior Vice President and Head of the Books and Manuscripts Department, Chicago, stated: “The extraordinary success of this auction not only exceeded our expectations but also underscored the continuing strength of the rare book and manuscript market. The remarkable sale result for The Federalist, which far surpassed its estimate, reflects the enduring significance of the foundational works that shaped democracy in the United States. Similarly, the demand for superlative copies of beloved literary works remains very strong, with prices realized far surpassing their estimates, demonstrating that the timeless appeal of literary works continues to inspire and resonate with collectors. Very strong interest in some of the most renowned works of natural history rounded out the sale and contributed to the exceptional result.” Defending the Constitution Written primarily by Alexander Hamilton, with significant contributions from John Jay and James Madison, The Federalist essays (Lot 299) were instrumental in swaying public opinion during the ratification of the United States Constitution. Freeman’s | Hindman’s auction featured a highly coveted thick-paper presentation copy, believed to have been owned by Captain David Olmstead, a Revolutionary War veteran who served at West Point and the Battle of Ridgefield. This exceptionally rare edition—one of only seven to come to auction in the past 50 years—sparked enthusiastic bidding, ultimately selling for $203,200, more than triple its pre-sale estimate. RIGHT | LEWIN. The Birds of Great-Britain with their Eggs. Lon.,1789-94. ONE OF 60 SETS. | Sold for $41,275 Natural History Monographs Soar The sale also featured an extraordinary selection of ornithological and natural history works, highlighted by eight John Gould monographs from a distinguished private collection. The standout was Gould’s A Monograph of the Trochilidae, or Family of Humming-Birds (Lot 234), which exceeded its high estimate, closing at $88,900. William Lewin’s The Birds of Great-Britain with their Eggs (Lot 243) from the same collection captured significant interest, realizing $41,275—four times its pre-sale low estimate. Other highlights from the natural history category included: Lot 230 | [NATURAL HISTORY]. GOULD, John. The Birds of Europe. L., 1837. FIRST EDITION. Sold for $63,500 Lot 232 | [NATURAL HISTORY]. GOULD. A Monograph of the Ramphastidae...Toucans. L., [1852-] 1854. Second edition. Sold for $47,625 Lot 277 | AUDUBON. The Birds of America. NY, [1839-] 1840-1844. FIRST OCTAVO EDITION. Sold for $44,450 Lot 255 | [NATURAL HISTORY]. SIBTHORP. Flora Graeca. Lon., 1806-1813. FIRST EDITION. Sold for $21,590 Classic Literature Takes Center Stage Two remarkable literary treasures from the Library of Dr. John Talbot Gernon captivated collectors at Freeman’s | Hindman’s auction. The first issue of the American edition of Gaston Leroux’s The Phantom of the Opera (1911) (Lot 130), featuring an exceptionally rare original dust jacket, soared to $20,320, well above its pre-sale estimate of $6,000–8,000. This marked only the second time this particular dust jacket variant—depicting Christine staggering and swooning—has ever appeared at auction. Meanwhile, a desirable copy of Samuel L. Clemens’ (“Mark Twain”) The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (Lot 62) attracted intense bidding, ultimately realizing $41,275 and significantly exceeding its pre-sale estimate of $4,000–6,000. Additionally, a first edition of George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four (1949) (Lot 168) in a remarkably well-preserved dust jacket fetched $22,860, drawing enthusiastic interest from bidders. Other Notable Auction Highlights Lot 209 | [TRAVEL & EXPLORATION]. VANCOUVER. A Voyage of Discovery... L., 1798. FIRST EDITION WITH ATLAS. Sold for $22,860 Lot 325 | MATHEWS. Pencil Sketches of Montana. NY, 1868. FIRST EDITION. Sold for $53,975 Lot 327 | McKENNEY and HALL. History of the Indian Tribes of N.A. Phila., 1836-1844. FIRST EDITION. Sold for $44,450 Freeman’s is a premier American auction house offering services in multiple categories including fine art, jewelry, design, books and manuscripts, furniture, decorative arts, antiquities, couture, and Asian works of art. With 16 regional locations nationwide, the firm provides auctions, appraisals, private sales, and art advisory services, connecting clients to the global art market. Freeman’s strives to bring art, history, and design to life by connecting people with extraordinary objects through exceptional service and expertise.