Ben Shahn Paintings & Artwork for Sale | Ben Shahn Art Value Price Guide

Nov. 21, 2024
Ben Shahn (Lithuanian 1898-1969) Frederick Douglass (1965)
Est: £200 - £300
Ben Shahn (Lithuanian 1898-1969) Frederick Douglass (1965) signed and dedicated in pencil 'for Bertrand Russell - Ben Shahn' (lower centre), additionally signed in pen by Bertrand Russell (lower left), lithograph, image 57 x 44 cm, framed and glazed, 71.5 x 58 cm Provenance Donated to the Bertrand Russell Peace Foundation by the artist. Frederick Douglass (1818-1895) was an American social reformer, abolitionist and writer. Shahn gave permission to the Museum of African Art in Washington to reproduce and sell a portfolio of his portraits of Douglass to benefit the museum's Frederick Douglass Institution of Negro Arts and History. In January 1966, Russell wrote to Shahn thanking him for his generous donation, adding 'my only regret is that they will be sold in support of our work, for I admire them very much.'
Dawsons Auctioneers
Nov. 16, 2024
Signed & Framed Abstract Figural Lithograph, Ben Shahn
Est: $300 - $600
Signed & Framed Abstract Figural Lithograph, Ben Shahn. This figural image was used as the poster for the 1967 'Graphics' show at the Philadelphia Museum of Art for Ben Shahn (Lithuanian/American, 1898-1969) and features a colorful architectural structure for a human body, in a metal frame. Signed as Ben Shahn bottom-right with signature and glyph at top-left. Dimensions are 45.5 in h x 30.5 in w x 1.25 in d. Condition is good with some discoloration, piece is loose in the frame. Please call or email for a detailed condition report.
Public Sale Auction House
Nov. 11, 2024
BEN SHAHN SOCIAL REALISM PORTRAIT VINTAGE PRINT
Est: $200 - $400
Ben Shahn (American, 1898-1969) 'Portrait of a Woman' vintage offset lithograph. Measures 12 x 9 inches.
Antiques & Modern Auction Gallery
Nov. 10, 2024
Ben Shahn, Original Two Tones Lithograph on Paper, Signed
Est: $200 - $800
He Says No to Civilization and Survival is a large original lithograph in two colors on paper by Lithuanian/American artist Ben Shahn. Made as a satirical anti Barry Goldwater broadside, Shahn represents the 1964 presidential candidate as a baby in diapers surrounded by soundbites from his campaign. Signature on lower right: Ben Shahn. Edition number on lower left: 270/500. Housed in a wooden frame with a light brown mat. Sight size: 16.75"L x 24.50"H. Frame dimensions: 23"L x 31"H x 1"W. Artwork can be unframed and rolled for shipment. Artist: Ben Shahn (Lithuanian/American, 1898-1969) Issued: 1964 Dimensions: See Description Edition Number: 270/500 Country of Origin: Lithuania-United States
Lion and Unicorn
Nov. 09, 2024
BEN SHAHN (AMERICAN 1898-1969)
Est: $500 - $700
BEN SHAHN (AMERICAN 1898-1969) In the forest watercolor 38 x 27 cm (15 x 10 1/2 in.) [sight] framed dimensions: 56 x 43 cm (22 x 17 in.) signed lower left N.B. Condition reports are available upon request. All lots are sold in as-is condition at the time of sale. Please note that any condition statement regarding works of art is given as a courtesy to our clients in order to assist them in assessing the condition. The report is a genuine opinion held by Shapiro Auctions and should not be treated as a statement of fact. The absence of a condition report or a photograph does not preclude the absence of defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of any others. Shapiro Auctions, LLC., including its consultants and agents, shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Shapiro Auctions LLC
Nov. 09, 2024
BEN SHAHN (AMERICAN 1898-1969)
Est: $800 - $1,200
BEN SHAHN (AMERICAN 1898-1969) Fortune, 1957 ink on paper 30.5 x 21.5 cm (12 x 8 1/2 in.) [sheet] unframed signed lower right PROVENANCE Swann Auction Galleries, New York, January 28, 2016, Lot 121 (noting Gumps, San Francisco label from 1957 on original backing, not sold with the lot now) Private Collection, Western Massachusetts Barridoff Galleries, Maine,, June 22, 2019, Lot 112 Private Collection, Maryland N.B. Condition reports are available upon request. All lots are sold in as-is condition at the time of sale. Please note that any condition statement regarding works of art is given as a courtesy to our clients in order to assist them in assessing the condition. The report is a genuine opinion held by Shapiro Auctions and should not be treated as a statement of fact. The absence of a condition report or a photograph does not preclude the absence of defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of any others. Shapiro Auctions, LLC., including its consultants and agents, shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Shapiro Auctions LLC
Nov. 02, 2024
AMERICAN INK AND CHARCOAL DRAWING BY BEN SHAHN
Est: $100 - $150
Ink and charcoal on paper drawing by Ben Shahn, 1898 to 1969, an American Social Realist artist, printmaker, and muralist. The artwork is a study of two standing nude men. Signed by the artist in the bottom middle. Undated. White mat, wooden frame. Collectible Figurative Graphic Art.
Antique Arena Inc
Nov. 02, 2024
AMERICAN INK AND CHARCOAL DRAWING BY BEN SHAHN
Est: $100 - $150
Ink and charcoal on paper drawing by Ben Shahn, 1898 to 1969, an American Social Realist artist, printmaker, and muralist. The artwork depicts nude man standing by the window. Signed by the artist in the lower right. Undated. Black mat, wooden frame. Collectible Figurative Graphic Art.
Antique Arena Inc
Oct. 31, 2024
BEN SHAHN (1898-1969) Child of Fortuna Family, Hammond, Louisiana. October 1935.
Est: $2,000 - $3,000
BEN SHAHN (1898-1969) Child of Fortuna Family, Hammond, Louisiana. October 1935. Silver print, the image measuring 6½x9½ inches (16.5x24.1 cm.), the sheet 8x10 inches (20.3x25.4 cm.), with Shahn's F.S.A. credit stamp and the Farm Security Administration stamp, the typed title and date, and the RA number in pencil on verso. Reproduced Archibald MacLeish, Land of the Free (1938), p. 81 (cropped) Edward Steichen, The F.S.A Photographers (U.S Camera Annual, 1939), p. 57 F. Jack Hurley, Portrait of a Decade (1972), p. 53 (cropped) Beverly Brannan & Gilles Mora, FSA: The American Vision (2006), p. 58
Swann Auction Galleries
Oct. 29, 2024
Ben Shahn - Of Light, White Sleeping Women in Childbed from the Rike Portfolio - 1968 Lithograph 22.5" x 17.75"
Est: $300 - $450
"Of Light, White Sleeping Women in Childbed from the Rike Portfolio" by Ben Shahn, 1968 Unsigned Lithograph. Paper size is 22.5 x 17.75 inches, with an image size of 22.5 x 17.25 inches. The Lithograph is from an unknown edition size. and is not framed. The condition was rated B: Very Good Condition, with signs of handling or age. Additional details: Lithograph on Richard de Bas paper from the Rilke Portfolio. The Rilke Portfolio by Ben Shahn contained 24 prints from the Atelier Mourlot in New York. The Munn Collection offers 7 unframed lithographs from the original collection. Signed in the plate.
DUMBO Auctions
Oct. 29, 2024
Ben Shahn - Mask (The Mask of the Women with the Comb) - 1963 Serigraph 29.75" x 21"
Est: $400 - $600
"Mask (The Mask of the Women with the Comb)" by Ben Shahn, 1963 Unsigned Serigraph. Paper size is 29.75 x 21 inches, with an image size of 29.75 x 21 inches. The Serigraph is from an edition size of 200 and is not framed. The condition was rated A-: Near Mint, very light signs of handling. Additional details: Created in 1963, "Mask" comes from a period of significant social and political change in the United States, marked by the civil rights movement and a growing awareness of social inequalities. "Mask" by Ben Shahn is a compelling artwork that embodies the artist's distinctive style and thematic concerns. Measuring 30 x 21 inches and created in 1963, the piece invites contemplation on themes of identity, concealment, and the human experience. Referenced in Prescott 51, it holds a significant place in Shahn's body of work, showcasing his ability to merge social commentary with powerful visual expression. The use of bold lines, vibrant colors, and expressive forms makes "Mask" a memorable and impactful piece in the history of modern American art.
DUMBO Auctions
Oct. 25, 2024
Ben Shahn (1898-1969)
Est: £500 - £700
Ben Shahn (1898-1969) Orchestra signed 'Ben Shahn' (lower right) ink and coloured pencils 32 x 57.5cm
Cheffins
Oct. 23, 2024
Ben Shahn
Est: $3,000 - $5,000
American 1898-1969 Villa Felletto - Vanzetti's Home, circa 1931 Signed Ben Shahn (lr) Gouache on paper mounted to Masonite 9 1/8 x 13 1/2 inches Provenance: Downtown Gallery, New York Laurence A. and Barbara Fleischman collection Kennedy Galleries, New York Private collection Exhibited: Tucson, AZ, The Univesity of Arizona, American Paintings, 1765-1963: Selections from the Laurence A. and Barbara Fleischman Collection of Art, 1964 (Framed 18 1/4 x 21 3/4 inches)
DOYLE Auctioneers & Appraisers
Oct. 23, 2024
Ben Shahn
Est: $1,500 - $2,500
American 1898-1969 Portrait of a Woman Signed Ben Shahn (lr), inscribed For Barbara / Happy Birthday (lc) Gouache on paper 9 1/4 x 5 3/4 inches (oval) Provenance: Private collection, New York (Framed 16 1/2 x 13 inches) The sheet is slightly toned.
DOYLE Auctioneers & Appraisers
Oct. 23, 2024
Ben Shahn
Est: $1,500 - $2,500
American 1898-1969 Portrait of a Woman Signed Ben Shahn (lr), inscribed For Larry / Happy Birthday / Ben (lc) Gouache on paper doily 14 x 10 1/2 inches (oval) Provenance: Private collection, New York (Framed 16 1/2 x 13 inches) The sheet is slightly toned and has minor buckleing.
DOYLE Auctioneers & Appraisers
Oct. 22, 2024
Original World War ll Poster by Ben Shahn - This Is Nazi Brutality 1942
Est: $800 - $1,200
This is an original lithographic poster created during the Second World War by the noted American artist, Ben Shahn. It was at a time when the atrocities being committed by the Nazis were becoming public knowledge and the government in the U.S. were trying to inform the American public of these actions. This is an Original Vintage Poster; it is not a reproduction. This poster is conservation mounted, linen backed, and in excellent condition. We guarantee the authenticity of all of our posters.
The Ross Art Group, Inc
Oct. 22, 2024
Ben Shahn - Arkansas - 1978 Offset Lithograph 22" x 15.75"
Est: $30 - $45
"Arkansas" by Ben Shahn, 1978 Unsigned Offset Lithograph. Paper size is 22 x 15.75 inches, with an image size of 10.5 x 15.75 inches. The Offset Lithograph is from an unknown edition size. and is not framed. The condition was rated A: Mint. Additional details: First printing 1978 poster from the Vintage Prints exhibition by Ben Shahn
DUMBO Auctions
Oct. 20, 2024
BEN SHAHN FRAMED POSTER
Est: $300 - $400
Ben Shahn (American, 1898-1969), BEN SHAHN GRAPHICS, Philadelphia Museum of Fine Art / November 15th December 31st 1967, "Copyright 1967 poster originals, limited no. 65", offset color lithograph; framed, under plexi 46.5 by 31.5 in., From a New York City private collection. NOTE: Apologies, we cannot approve bidders during the auction.
CRN Auctions
Oct. 19, 2024
Ben Shahn, Unexpected Meetings, Print
Est: $300 - $500
Ben Shahn (1898-1989), unexpected meetings, print, signed, 24" x 20", framed 33" x 29". Provenance: San Diego, California collection.
Kaminski Auctions
Oct. 16, 2024
BEN SHAHN, HALLELUJAH, BOOK OF 24 LITHOGRAPHS
Est: $1,500 - $2,500
Artist: Ben Shahn, Lithuanian/American (1898 - 1969) Title: Hallelujah Year: 1970-71 Medium: Book of 24 Lithographs, each signed in the plate Edition: 240 Image Size: 16 x 16.5 inches Size: 18 x 19 x 2.5 in. (45.72 x 48.26 x 6.35 cm) Printer: Atelier Mourlot, New York Publisher: Kennedy Graphics, New York
RoGallery
Oct. 16, 2024
BEN SHAHN, SKOWHEGAN, WOOD ENGRAVING
Est: $550 - $750
Artist: Ben Shahn, Lithuanian/American (1898 - 1969) Title: Skowhegan Year: 1965 Medium: Wood Engraving, signed in pencil Edition: 200 (unnumbered) Image Size: 9 x 8 inches Size: 16 x 12 in. (40.64 x 30.48 cm) Printer: Engraver and Printer: Stefan Martin Reference: Prescott 62
RoGallery
Sep. 28, 2024
Ben Shahn Drawings
Est: $25 - $50
Kennedy Galleries.
Davis Brothers Auction
Sep. 27, 2024
Ben Shahn. "Restrike," woodblock
Est: $200 - $400
(American, 1898-1942) Woodblock print on paper, ed. 1/20, c. 1952, pencil signed lr, image size: 35 3/4 x 25 1/2 in., framed size: 42 1/2 x 29 1/4 in.
Alex Cooper
Sep. 26, 2024
BEN SHAHN (1898-1969) Lincoln Center / Philharmonic Hall. 1962.
Est: $700 - $1,000
BEN SHAHN (1898-1969) Lincoln Center / Philharmonic Hall. 1962. Lithograph poster. 116¾x75½ cm, 46x29¾ inches.
Swann Auction Galleries
Sep. 25, 2024
BEN SHAHN (1898 - 1969)
Est: €300 - €500
Haggadah. Lithograph with hand applied watercolour and gold leaf. PICTURES AND PRINTS Wednesday 25th September 2024 Approximate Time 10:07:30
Sheppards
Sep. 19, 2024
BEN SHAHN, NURSE, PENCIL ON PAPER
Est: $2,500 - $3,500
Artist: Ben Shahn, Lithuanian/American (1898 - 1969) Title: Nurse Medium: Pencil on Paper, signed l.r. Image Size: 7 x 5 inches Frame Size: 15 x 13 inches Description: Ben Shahn's touching portrait of a nurse holding a silk child to her chest is an example of the artist's non-traditional portraiture that focuses on emotion and feeling.
RoGallery
Sep. 19, 2024
BEN SHAHN, ONE MUST KNOW THE ANIMALS, LITHOGRAPH
Est: $550 - $750
Artist: Ben Shahn, Lithuanian/American (1898 - 1969) Title: One Must Know the Animals Portfolio: Rilke Year: 1968 Medium: Lithograph, signed in the plate Edition: 750 Size: 22.5 x 17.75 in. (57.15 x 45.09 cm)
RoGallery
Sep. 17, 2024
Ben Shahn - Touro Synagogue - 1974 Offset Lithograph 28" x 42"
Est: $50 - $75
"Touro Synagogue" by Ben Shahn, 1974 Unsigned Offset Lithograph. Paper size is 28 x 42 inches, with an image size of 28 x 42 inches. The Offset Lithograph is from an unknown edition size. and is not framed. The condition was rated A-: Near Mint, very light signs of handling. Additional details: 1974 poster created by Ben Shahn to promote the Touro Synagogue National Historic Site in Newport, Rhode Island.
DUMBO Auctions
Sep. 13, 2024
Ben Shahn (Lithuanian-American, 1898-1969) Woodcut Engraving on Cream Japanese Paper, 1968, "Baseball", H 14" W 20"
Est: $300 - $500
Engraved by Stefan Martin, signed by both artists and numbered 100/350 to lower margins in pencil. Frame measures H 24" x W 36.5".
DuMouchelles
Sep. 05, 2024
Ben Shahn 1950's Framed Gallery Poster
Est: $200 - $300
Ben Shahn 1950's Framed Gallery Poster. Measures 28 inches x 19 inches
Greenwich Auction
Aug. 22, 2024
Ben Shahn 1950's Framed Gallery Poster
Est: $200 - $300
Ben Shahn 1950's Framed Gallery Poster. Measures 28 inches x 19 inches
Greenwich Auction
Aug. 18, 2024
BEN SHAHN FREDERICK DOUGLAS FRAMED SERIGRAPH
Est: $400 - $600
Ben Shahn (American-Lithuanian 1898-1969). Frederick Douglas signed and edition 39 of 250 in crayon. Framed under glass. Image 22 x 17 inches. Original frame. Shipping approx. 3 pounds. Goodcondition.
White's Auctions
Aug. 15, 2024
Bundle- 4 Assorted Ben Shahn Authentic Posters
Est: $300 - $450
This is a bundled assortment of 4 Posters by Ben Shahn. Each piece is described as follows: Ben Shahn - Atelier Mourlot - 1970 Lithograph 28" x 21" Unsigned Lithograph Paper Size: 28 x 21 inches (71.12 x 53.34cm ) Condition: A-: Near Mint, very light signs of handling Additional Details: One of six posters printed by Mourlot while operating on bank Street. Other editions include works by Miro, Katz, Calder, Leger and Lichtenstein. Ben Shahn - Graphics - 1967 Lithograph 45" x 30" Unsigned Lithograph Paper Size: 45 x 30 inches (114.3 x 76.2cm ) Condition: A-: Near Mint, very light signs of handling Additional Details: Signed in the plate (Plate Signed), not hand-signed. Ben Shahn - Soby Book Jacket Image - 1977 Offset Lithograph 11.5" x 8.5" Unsigned Offset Lithograph Paper Size: 11.5 x 8.5 inches (29.21 x 21.59cm ) Condition: A: Mint Ben Shahn - Ohio Magic - Offset Lithograph 19.25" x 25" Unsigned Offset Lithograph Paper Size: 19.25 x 25 inches (48.895 x 63.5cm ) Condition: A: Mint
DUMBO Auctions
Aug. 06, 2024
BEN SHAHN WAR WWII POSTER PRINTED BY THE U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE, ORIGINAL
Est: $80 - $120
Ben Shahn War WWII Poster printed by the U.S. Government Printing Office, Original Dimensions: Height: 29 inches, Width: 39.75 inches. --- - - We offer curbside delivery for most items to NYC, Manhattan, Close Brooklyn, Hoboken about a week after the auction at reasonable rates. Next Trip August 14. See details at our website. https://www.uniquesandantiques.com/nyc/
Uniques & Antiques
Jul. 27, 2024
Ben Shahn, Hallelujah, Suite of 24 Lithographs, Signed
Est: $400 - $600
Ben Shahn, Hallelujah, Suite of 24 Lithographs, Signed Ben Shahn Lithuanian/American (1898–1969) Date: 1970-71 Book of 24 Lithographs, each signed in the plate Edition of 240 Approximate Size Case: 19" H x 18"W x 2" D Book: 18" H x 16.5"W x 1" D
La Belle Epoque Auction House
Jul. 23, 2024
Ben Shahn (1898-1969) Lithuanian New York (three)
Est: $100 - $200
FLOWERING BRUSHES (Prescott 82), 1968, color lithograph, signed in brush and with red chop mark, edition of 200, published by Kennedy Graphics, printed by Mourlot, sheet 40 x 26 ½”, frame 43 ½ x 30 ½” with plexiglas; BEN SHAHN KENNEDY GALLERIES (Prescott 197), 1968, color lithograph poster, signed on the stone, published by Kennedy Graphics, printed by Mourlot, sheet 35 ½ x 24 ½”; YOU HAVE NOT CONVERTED A MAN (Prescott 200), 1968, offset color poster, signed in the designed, 40 ½ x 30 ½” including frame (with broken glass), published by Container Corporation of American, printed by Darien House, Inc. (3)
Clark's Fine Art & Auctioneers Inc.
Jul. 23, 2024
Ben Shahn (Lithuanian, 1898-1969), Figure with Dragons, Woodblock Print, Numbered 3/20, Signed l.l, 38 x 25 in. (96.5 x 63.5 cm.)
Est: $50 - $100
Ben Shahn (Lithuanian, 1898-1969), Figure with Dragons, Woodblock Print, Numbered 3/20, Signed l.l,
Weschler's
Jul. 19, 2024
Ben Shahn (American, 1898-1969) Lithographs on Paper 1968, "Rainer M. Rilke, for the Sake of a Single Verse", H 24.25" W 19" Depth 3"
Est: $1,000 - $2,000
The complete portfolio comprising of 24 lithographs in colors, on Richard de Bas handmade paper,1968, Edition of 950. Signed by the artist and numbered "#870" in color pencils on the justification page. Printed by Atelier Mourlot, New York. Published by Touchstone Publishers, Ltd., New York, contained in original gray linen portfolio. Very good impressions. Catalogue Raisonne: Prescott 113-136. Provenance: Sheldon Ross Gallery, Birmingham, Michigan; Property from the Estate of David Lebenbom, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
DuMouchelles
Jul. 18, 2024
Ben Shahn - Touro Synagogue - 1974 Offset Lithograph 28" x 42"
Est: $325 - $400
"Touro Synagogue" by Ben Shahn, 1974 Unsigned Offset Lithograph. Paper size is 28 x 42 inches, with an image size of 28 x 42 inches. The Offset Lithograph is from an unknown edition size. and is not framed. The condition was rated A-: Near Mint, very light signs of handling. Additional details: 1974 poster created by Ben Shahn to promote the Touro Synagogue National Historic Site in Newport, Rhode Island.
DUMBO Auctions
Jul. 18, 2024
Ben Shahn - Atelier Mourlot - 1970 Lithograph 28" x 21"
Est: $625 - $775
"Atelier Mourlot" by Ben Shahn, 1970 Unsigned Lithograph. Paper size is 28 x 21 inches, with an image size of 28 x 21 inches. The Lithograph is from an edition size of 500 and is not framed. The condition was rated A-: Near Mint, very light signs of handling. Additional details: One of six posters printed by Mourlot while operating on bank Street. Other editions include works by Miro, Katz, Calder, Leger and Lichtenstein.
DUMBO Auctions
Jul. 18, 2024
Ben Shahn Lithograph From Single Verse
Est: $100 - $150
Ben Shahn (American, 1898-1969). Lithograph, from the For the Sake of a Single Verse portfolio. Signed in the plate lower right, and numbered 664 from the edition of 950 in ink on verso, with COA on verso. 19" x 16 1/2" (with frame 25 3/4" x 22 1/4"). Toning to paper, some discoloration to linen mat.
Willow Auction House
Jul. 18, 2024
Ben Shahn The Decalogue Print
Est: $100 - $150
Ben Shahn (American, 1898-1969). Print, The Decalogue. Signed in plate as well as in margin. Image size 11 1/2" x 7 1/2". Overall size 17 1/2" x 13". Waves in paper. Frame has dents and paint loss.
Willow Auction House
Jul. 11, 2024
This is Nazi Brutality. 1942.
Est: $1,000 - $1,200
ARTIST: BEN SHAHN (1898-1969) SIZE: 28 1/4 x 37 7/8 in./71.7 x 96.3 cm PRINTER: U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. DESCRIPTION: When a Nazi official was shot by two Czechs in 1942, the Germans retaliated by literally wiping out the entire mining village of Lidice. Over a ten-hour period, every man in the city was shot, while the women and children were sent to concentration camps. This massacre became an eye-opening emblem of Nazi brutality the world over. Here, by not allowing the viewer to see the man’s face, we can impose any image—ourselves even—on the figure, making the poster all the more visceral and horrifying a reminder of that day’s events. This poster was issued by the U.S. Office of War Information. (War & Propaganda; American)
Poster Auctions International Inc
Jul. 11, 2024
We French Workers Warn You.. 1942.
Est: $800 - $1,000
ARTIST: BEN SHAHN (1898-1969) SIZE: 40 x 28 1/2 in./101.7 x 72.2 cm PRINTER: U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. DESCRIPTION: The cautionary tone directed here at American citizens couldn’t be clearer, with incarcerated French workers warning that “defeat means slavery, starvation, death,” as an “Official Vichy Decree” glows menacingly in the background. This was Shahn’s first war poster; he worked in the Office of War Information under William Golden. (War & Propaganda; American)
Poster Auctions International Inc
Jul. 06, 2024
Ben Shahn Clown Exhibition Poster.
Est: $80 - $150
This offset print was published by Shorewood Press, Inc., NYC. The work is housed in a simple gold-tone aluminum frame. There is discoloration to the lower margin. The poster measures 28 1/4" x 20 1/4". In-house shipping is available. Please see our website regarding our in-house shipping procedures.
Direct Auction Galleries, Inc.
Jun. 27, 2024
Haggadah for Passover, Copied and Illustrated by Ben Shahn, with a Translation, Introduction, and Notes by Cecil Roth, Paris & London: The Trianon Press, 1966
Est: $8,000 - $10,000
Limited special edition for collectors and museums, number D of 10 copies numbered A to J, signed by the artist on the frontispiece and introduction page. Inspired by the tradition of medieval illuminated Hebrew manuscripts, Lithuanian-born American graphic artist Ben Shahn (1898-1969) originally created eleven of the twelve full-page color plates for this Haggadah over the course of six months circa 1930. The illustrations, like those executed for his secular works, highlight the struggle against oppression, a theme central to the Passover story. The figures depicted were modeled after the Jews of Djerba, whom Shahn had encountered during a year-long journey through North Africa. After an unsuccessful attempt to print the Haggadah in color, Shahn sold the completed plates to Frieda Warburg, from whose son Edward they passed in 1947 into the permanent collection of The Jewish Museum (New York). In 1958, however, Shahn serendipitously met Arnold Fawcus, a publisher of art books and facsimiles, in a small country inn in Burgundy, and the two later agreed to partner in seeing the Haggadah project through. Shahn completed the twelfth illustration, added drawings of the scenes of the Had gadya (An Only Kid) song, and designed a beautiful frontispiece and title page, while Fawcus commissioned British scholar Cecil Roth to compose an introduction and notes (and to reuse his 1934 translation of the Haggadah text). Touted at the time as “perhaps the most beautiful book ever designed and illustrated by an American artist” and considered to be among Shahn’s “finest and most original work[s],” this deluxe edition of the Haggadah is a monument to the skill of one of the twentieth century’s most famous Jewish cultural figures. Physical Description 136, xxiv pages (15 3/8 x 11 7/8 in.; 392 x 300 mm) printed on Auvergne handmade pure rag paper; Hebrew and English, Hebrew section titles and select other texts printed in Shahn’s distinctive Hebrew typeface; unsewn sheets, as issued, folded into original stiff wrappers in the grand luxe style, with the deckle-edges of the paper left untrimmed. Lithographed multicolor frontispiece and decorated title; twelve full-page collotype and pochoir plates after Shahn’s original watercolors; ten collotype deep brick red plates after drawings of the scenes of Had gadya (An Only Kid); floral decorations on pp. 8, 90. Slight scattered staining; minor dampstaining along lower edges. Title gilt in Hebrew and English on respective covers; original glassine overwrap, wrapped in tissue paper. Additional materials, each housed in a numbered and custom-labeled folder: 1) Original illustration from An Only Kid (the butcher); 2) Colour plates on Japanese Nacré handmade paper; 3) Colour plates on Arches Grand Vélin; 4) Uncoloured plates on Arches Vergé paper; 5) A series of thirty-four progressives showing the stages in the hand-stencil coloring of a single plate (“In Every Generation Men rise up against Us”); 6) Three original guide-sheets and stencils (“In Every Generation Men rise up against Us”); 7) Two proof states of the lithograph frontispiece. All folders tied within a custom burlap enclosure. Accompanied by a promotional pamphlet, slightly scuffed and worn, and sample collotype and pochoir plate (“The Reckoning of the Miracles”). The whole ensemble housed in a parchment-covered handmade folding case, slightly scuffed; title gilt on upper and lower boards and on spine (together with press and artist name); two intact silver-gilt clasps on fore-edge. Literature Howard Greenfeld, Ben Shahn: An Artist’s Life (New York: Random House, 1998), 65-66, 292-303.
Sotheby's
Jun. 26, 2024
SHAHN, Ben (Lithuanian/American, 1898 – 1969). And Mine Eye...
Est: $200 - $300
SHAHN, Ben (Lithuanian/American, 1898 – 1969). And Mine Eyes a Fountain of Tears. 1965. Serigraph. Signed in pencil to lower right. Framed (plexiglass) 29 x 24 ¾”. Sight 21 ¾ x 17 ¼”. Good overall condition with light spotting. Not examined outside frame.
Potter & Potter Auctions Inc.
Jun. 20, 2024
Ben Shahn (1898-1969): Of Light, White Sleeping Woman in Childbed
Est: $100 - $200
Lithograph in black on wove paper, 1968, with the printed signature, numbered 318/950 on the label from The Collector's Guild, NY. 20 x 15 3/4 in. (sight), 27 1/4 x 23 1/4 in. (frame).
STAIR