Tag: World War II

‘A Scout is Loyal’ and Worth $5 Million! Norman Rockwell’s Patriotic Masterpiece Set for Auction

Norman Rockwell’s ‘A Scout is Loyal’, a stirring portrayal of American patriotism, is poised to be the highlight of Bonhams’ American Art sale on November 20. Painted in 1940 during the artist’s most significant period amidst World War II, this masterpiece embodies Rockwell’s talent for capturing the national spirit. Featuring a Boy Scout surrounded by powerful American symbols—including the flag, a bald eagle, and historic figures such as Presidents Abraham Lincoln and George Washington holding the Bill of Rights—the painting is valued at $3 million to $5 million. It serves as a poignant reminder of unity and resilience during times of challenge.

Hans Hartung Masterpiece Sells for $1.4 Million at Piguet Auction House

Piguet Hôtel des Ventes in Geneva, Switzerland, set new benchmarks in the art world this week, as a major work by the renowned abstract painter Hans Hartung fetched CHF 1.2 million ($1.4 million USD) at auction, placing it among the top 10 highest-selling pieces by the artist globally. This milestone, achieved in a somewhat challenging international art market, underscores Geneva’s growing importance as a key destination for high-profile art auctions.

Rare Georges Jouve Caryatides Sell for Over $160,000, Doubling Pre-Sale Estimate

A pair of rare Georges Jouve caryatides, circa 1946, originating from L’Institut Harriet Hubbard Ayer et Alexandre de Paris on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, sold for £127,400 ($162,000) at Bonhams Design and Contemporary Ceramics Sale held online this April. The final price far exceeded the pre-sale estimate of £50,000-70,000 ($63,000-89,000). Jouve’s contributions to the field of ceramics were significant, and he played a key role in the post-war resurgence of interest in ceramic art. His works are celebrated for their elegance, craftsmanship, and the innovative use of materials and techniques. Today, Georges Jouve is considered one of the leading figures in 20th-century ceramics, and his pieces are highly sought after by collectors and museums worldwide.

The Great Spadolini – Dance, Art & Espionage

The Spy with License to Dance … and Paint!

This isn’t a fictional book by Ian Fleming, nor an imaginary film about the world’s most famous secret agent.

The “James Bond” we’re talking about here is Italian, and his name is Alberto Spadolini (1907 – 1972).

He was sexy and daring like 007, surrounded by fascinating women and celebrities of the international jet set, continually moving between different milieux – showbiz, politics, sophisticated circles, and war scenarios.

The only difference is – he was real.