Expectations were high, but not as lofty as the auction yielded. Auction estimates were recognized to be entirely out of touch with Howe’s past private sales records ($12,000-$18,000), but $180,000.00 plus the buyer’s commission of 25% = $225,000.00 was realized by Friend, I Shake Your Hand.
Howe’s next lot sold today Good Heart Forever was sold for even more against the same estimate, $325,000.00 including the buyer’s fee. This painting is pictured below:
Camte Waste, No No Wa, gouache on paper, 18 1/2″ X 24 1/2″ by Oscar Howe (1915-1983)
This gentleman’s importance to the liberation of standards for what constitutes a “good” painting by American Indian artists cannot be overstated. Previously the criteria was routinely limiting — sanctioned subject matter, paint execution, materials used. Expression was largely prescribed by non-Indian instructors, competition judges and other influencers prior to Oscar Howe’s participation.
This auction’s results stand as a measure of applause for Howe’s willingness to create beautiful work of his own design.
Consider visiting Howe’s compelling exhibition due to open on June 10th, running through September 17 at South Dakota Art Museum located in Brookings, South Dakota. For those who cannot attend, consider purchasing the hardbound book Dakota Modern: the Art of Oscar Howe accompanying the show.
Corinne Cain of SavvyCollector.com
It has been a privilege to have sold several paintings by Mr. Howe over the last nearly 20 years.