Shannon’s has collected an exceptional group of 180 artworks to be offered in their Fall Fine Art Auction on Thursday, October 28th, beginning promptly at 6 pm Eastern time. There are spectacular offerings in every category, particularly 20th century American art, 19th century European art, Hudson River School painting, Modernism and Contemporary art.
Headlining the auction are two works by celebrated the British Modernist, Henry Moore. Moore, best known as a sculptor, was a skilled draughtsman often working out concepts for his sculptures on paper. Shannon’s will offer both a bronze, Mother and Child on Ladderback Rocking Chair (estimated at $400,000-$600,000) and a colored, mixed-media work on paper, titled Rocking Chairs (estimate $100,000-$200,000) related to the series of mother and child sculptures on rocking bases.
The bronze, from an edition of 9, was intended to rock back and forth, adding charm and playfulness to the warm subject matter. It was purchased directly from Moore’s New York City dealer in 1952. The drawing, created in 1948, illustrates Moore’s various approaches to the mother and child theme. Although the work is a study on paper, Moore clearly conceived of his works as volumetric sculptures, drawing shadows and motion into his designs.
To view the full catalog, condition reports and to bid live online, visit www.shannons.com. Previews will be held by appointment only, October 18th-27th, weekdays from 11 am to 6 pm Eastern time, and Saturday, October 23rd from 10-3. Virtual previews and additional photos are available by request.
