19th & Early 20th Century American Paintings Perform Well

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.