“Manolita Marequis,” 1908, by Robert Henri led the sale at $310,000.
PHILADELPHIA, PENN. — A work from the Ashcan School was among the standouts at Freeman’s American art and Pennsylvania Impressionists auction on June 5.
Topping the 122-lot sale was Robert Henri’s “Manolita Marequis,” which bested its $120/180,000 presale estimate to sell for $310,000, including premium. Henri is best known as the most prominent and celebrated member of the group known as The Eight. He frequently traveled to Spain, particularly between 1900 and 1926. During that time he painted a large and significant amount of works depicting Spanish people and their everyday life. The 1908 piece “Manolita Marequis” is an example of a privately owned work that embodies Henri’s fascination with Spanish subjects, including dancers. Her striking red and black floral dress and vivid rose in her hair are matched only by her commanding expression. An exotic beauty, her bold features immediately demand the viewer’s attention and the dark background and animated brushstrokes add to the painting’s appeal.
“After the Day’s Work (Arriving Home)” by N.C. Wyeth realized $162,500.
After selling four works of illustration art by N.C. Wyeth within the past year for a total of $1.3 million, another illustrative work by Wyeth came to auction at Freeman’s and did well. “After the Day’s Work (Arriving Home)” is an idyllic illustration of a man retiring home to his family, reminiscent of Norman Rockwell’s iconic style. The painting was initially published in an English textbook in 1926, but it is possible that it may date to as early as 1921 (presently dated to circa 1924–1926). This painting, which had been in private hands since it was acquired in 1993, realized $162,500.
A highlight among the Pennsylvania Impressionists represented in the sale was Edward Willis Redfield’s “House in Point Pleasant,” which boasted an impeccable provenance as it was passed directly from the artist through his family to the consignor, it went out at $112,500.
For information, www.freemansauction.com or 267-414-1211.
