Frankenthaler Finds

On Friday, June 5, Stair Galleries will offer personal property from the estate of abstract expressionist painter, Helen Frankenthaler. All up, 277 lots will go under the hammer, comprising jewelry, fashion, furniture and selected objects.

Helen Frankenthaler was a major contributor to the history of postwar American painting. The daughter of a New York Supreme Court judge, she had her first solo exhibition at NYC’s Tibor de Nagy Gallery in the fall of 1951. Her first major museum show was at the Jewish Museum in 1960. Frankenthaler received the National Medal of Arts in 2001.

Frankenthaler entertained lavishly, and was renowned for her refined taste, a fact that a quick run through the catalog soon makes abundantly clear. Lot 167 (above), a Cartier 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Ring, and Lot 198 (top), also by Cartier, a Pair of exquisite Yellow Gold Accessories, are typical of the Frankenthaler style.

Other highlights include Lot 166, a Fabergé Silver-Gilt, Enamel and Diamond Buckle, converted to a Brooch; dresses by Yves Saint Laurent and Chanel; Gucci and Louis Vuitton (above) handbags; tables by Teeno, stools by Charles and Ray Eames, and chairs by Herman Miller.

Lot 17, a Contemporary Metal, Glass & Lacquered Wood Low Table by Teeno

Look now at the full catalog for Stair Galleries’ sale of the Property from the Estate of Helen Frankenthaler.