Auction in Santa Fe sets Sandzen Record

Birger Sandzen Summer in the Mountains

Held at the Hilton Hotel in Santa Fe, and conducted by Manitou Galleries of Cheyenne, WY and Santa Fe, NM, the Auction in Santa Fe (AISF) posted a final sales number of $2.8 million.  With 574 lots and a 13% "no-sale" rate, the Auction in Santa Fe was highlighted by the record price of $632,500 for a Birger Sandzen painting titled Summer in the Mountains measuring 60" x 80".  Arguably the biggest and most brilliant Sandzen work to be sold at auction, the new record shattered the previous record by almost $150,000.  The Sandzen works and many other artists' as well as an incredible collection of Pueblo pottery dating pre-1904 were being deaccessioned by Bethany College in Lindsborg, KS.  Although it was a very lengthy process to get the works to market, the successful sale will contribute $1.15 million to Bethany's scholarship fund.

Also known for featuring high quality Indian material, other AISF highlights included a 1930’s Teec Nos Pos weaving selling for $9,200, and a 1910 transitional weaving going for over $6,000. A rare U.S. Indian Police shotgun from 1889 fetched $6,325, while a pair of Yankton Sioux moccasins & leggings brought $8,050 and a pair of Kiowa child’s moccasins commanded a price of $7,475. An extraordinary and seldom-found Crow Keyhole horse face ornament brought $6,900 and the featured Sioux Elk Dreamer’s Society man’s vest fetched $10,925. In addition, an 1860s Santee Sioux beaded bandolier bag garnered a surprise record price of $31,050. Pottery from Bethany College was very strong overall. An Acoma four-color jar dating pre-1900 commanded $5,750 and a wonderful Zuni figural square vessel fetched nearly $5,000.

Whenever record prices are being set, that's a great sign for the Western art market.  Signs continue to point towards a rebound in the art market and I think that's a result of investors looking for alternatives to invest their money.  While original art can be a rewarding alternative, there's always going to be risk involved as in any investment.  However, with the proper research and preperation for opportunities, that risk can be minimized.  I hope to provide both and would love to hear your feedback on what else I can do to help you build your collection.