A Stunning Auction at Copley Fine Art Auctions
On February 20-21, Copley Fine Art Auctions achieved an impressive record with their Winter Sale, amassing a staggering $5.9 million—a milestone that marks the highest auction total in the company’s two-decade history. This auction showcased the celebrated Robert S. Doochin collection, featuring a rich array of sporting, wildlife, and Western art. The event attracted a diverse mix of bidders, including new buyers, established collectors, and institutions, all eager to acquire unique pieces from a wide assortment of 635 lots which yielded an astonishing sell-through rate exceeding 95%.
A Spotlight on Noteworthy Bids
One of the standout pieces was a marlin flag flown on author Ernest Hemingway’s fishing boat, Pilar. Originally estimated between $5,000 and $8,000, bidding heated up quickly, culminating in an impressive final sale price of $209,100. This marked it as one of the highest-priced Hemingway collectibles auctioned, signaling a significant moment in the realm of literary and collectible memorabilia. Copley owner Stephen O’Brien emphasized the richness of the stories this flag symbolizes, representing a tangible connection to Hemingway’s iconic fishing adventures.
Record-Setting Artistic Triumphs
The auction also featured significant records in the art category. Aiden Lassell Ripley’s painting, The Pond Cover (1947), not only took the spotlight as the top item sold but also set a new auction record for the artist, fetching $192,000. This piece, previously sold for $90,000 in 2015, is described as a pinnacle of Ripley’s work, highlighting a harmonious blend of hunters, dogs, and a dynamic fall landscape.
Another notable work from the Doochin collection was Arthur Fitzwilliam Tait’s Setter, Pointer and Quail (1871), which sold for $126,000—setting the highest price for Tait’s dog paintings in over three decades. This reflects a growing appreciation for historical sporting art, especially as collectors seek to connect with the rich narratives these pieces convey.
Diverse Offerings and Bidding Enthusiasm
The sale featured collectibles spanning various types and eras. A unique orange Old Town salesman sample canoe, dating back to circa 1915, made headlines by quadrupling its high estimate to realize $123,000. This sale not only set a world auction record for Old Town salesman samples but also contributed to a vibrant atmosphere of competitive bidding.
Additionally, Two Duck Hunters by Frank W. Benson, a watercolor from 1926 with a notable exhibition history, resulted in a commendable sale of $156,000, marking a strong price point for the artist’s works.
The Allure of Nautical Memorabilia
Interest in maritime collectibles was also profound. A circa 1850 Webster golden plover decoy, accompanied by a fascinating provenance, achieved a remarkable price of $39,000, surpassing its high estimate of $15,000. An additional golden plover made by A. Elmer Crowell around 1930 soared even higher, landing at $93,000. Such results underscore growing interest in classic American folk art, particularly in items connected to hunting and fishing traditions.
Decoys and Calls: A Celebration of Craftsmanship
The sporting motif extended to duck calls as well, with hand-carved pieces drawing significant attention. A call by James T. Beckhart, circa 1900, fetched $9,840, while a Charles H. Perdew call surpassed expectations, bringing in $9,225. The auction benefitted from the depth of material offered, including a notable selection of duck calls from the Robert Metcalf collection.
The Expertise Behind the Auction Success
Copley’s success can be attributed to the expert knowledge and keen eye of its specialists, who navigate the ever-evolving auction landscape. Leah Tharpe, a fine art specialist at Copley, commented on the exemplary nature of the Doochin collection, highlighting the diligence involved in curating such a compelling array of artwork that captures the essence of the sporting lifestyle.
Copley’s commitment to leveraging modern bidding platforms like Copley Live and Bidsquare has enabled a broader reach, engaging millions of online bidders and further enhancing the auction experience.
The Spirit of Collecting
The Copley Fine Art Auctions Winter Sale stands not only as a testament to the financial viability of collecting art and memorabilia but also as a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and passion. For many, these pieces serve not just as investments but as cherished links to memories and stories that transcend generations.
For more detailed information on upcoming auctions and featured pieces, visit Copley Fine Art Auctions.