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Will Seippel, CEO of WorthPoint, has a unique perspective on the world of auctions and collectibles, drawing from his decades of experience as a collector and dealer. In a recent blog post, he shared insights into some standout sales from WorthPoint’s Industry Partners, offering valuable lessons on buying and selling trends. On May 15, WorthPoint added 228,824 items to its database, totaling $20,274,487.17 in value, with an average price of $88.60 per lot. Seippel highlighted several notable sales that exemplify the allure of history, art, and craftsmanship in the auction market.
History and Art Collide: Andy Warhol’s “Cowboys and Indians”
Freeman’s Hindman auction featured a remarkable set of ten “Cowboys and Indians” prints by Andy Warhol, which sold for $838,700. This portfolio, which Seippel described as breathtaking, captures iconic American figures like John Wayne, Annie Oakley, George Custer, Geronimo, and Teddy Roosevelt in Warhol’s signature vibrant style. Printed on Lenox Museum Board and numbered 179 out of 250, the set’s rarity was further enhanced by the unique inscription on the John Wayne print, marked as “unique.” The portfolio’s provenance, including exhibitions at the Leo Castelli Gallery in New York and the Hokin Gallery, added to its cultural and historical significance.
Seippel noted that the “Cowboys and Indians” portfolio appeals to collectors who cherish both American history and pop art. The auction’s top lots were dominated by Warhol’s works, with a Picasso rounding out the group. Another standout was a set of three Martha Graham prints, which sold for $375,300. Together, the Warhol pieces accounted for 53% of the sale’s total value, highlighting the enduring market demand for his late works, which were created just a year before his death in 1987.
The Evocative Art of N.C. Wyeth
John Moran Auctioneers offered a stunning N.C. Wyeth oil on canvas that captivated art enthusiasts. Depicting Rose, the “Rose of Torridge” from Charles Kingsley’s novel Westward Ho!, the painting sold for $145,161. Measuring 40.5 by 30 inches, the piece features Rose leaning against a cottage window, holding a letter and a bouquet of roses, dressed in a striking red gown. The thoughtful composition and vibrant colors highlight Wyeth’s mastery of illustration.
Seippel emphasized the appeal of this piece to fans of Western and American illustration art. The sale, which included 195 lots and totaled $1,829,471.83, showcased a variety of exceptional paintings. Seippel also encouraged collectors to attend Moran’s upcoming June 5 Western sale, which promises to feature even more treasures.
The Timeless Allure of Tiffany Lighting
Tiffany Studios’ lighting pieces remain highly sought after, as evidenced by two standout sales. Eldred’s auction featured a Tiffany Studios table lamp with a 16-inch daffodil-patterned leaded glass shade, which sold for $33,600. The shade, signed “Tiffany Studios New York,” was paired with a deep green Grueby pottery base marked with the artist’s initials and original labels. Despite being converted to electric and showing some stress cracks in the glass, the lamp remained in very good condition, showcasing the enduring appeal of Tiffany’s delicate, floral-inspired designs.
At Neal’s Auction in New Orleans, an unsigned six-light ceiling fixture attributed to Tiffany sold for $27,625. Crafted from copper, bronze, and turtle back glass, the fixture was electrified and in excellent condition, though it was missing its shades. These two pieces highlight the diversity of Tiffany lighting, from the intricate table lamp to the bold architectural ceiling fixture, appealing to collectors with varying tastes.
Conclusion
Will Seippel’s insights into these sales underscore the importance of understanding the cultural, historical, and artistic significance of collectibles. Whether it’s a Warhol portfolio, a Wyeth painting, or a Tiffany lamp, each piece tells a story and holds value for collectors who appreciate its unique qualities. Seippel’s passion for preserving history through collectibles is evident in his analysis of these sales, and his expertise continues to empower buyers and sellers in the WorthPoint community.
By staying informed about market trends and the stories behind each piece, collectors can make confident decisions, ensuring that they acquire treasures that resonate with their passions and interests. WorthPoint’s mission—Discover. Value. Preserve.—remains at the heart of this endeavor, guiding collectors to uncover the hidden worth of the objects that shape our history and culture.
