A remarkable discovery has emerged from a New York City apartment, resulting in the unearthing of a long-lost painting by renowned artist Georgia O’Keeffe. Valued at an estimated £3 million, the artwork, entitled “Near Abiquiu, New Mexico I,” will be auctioned on November 17 as part of Christie’s 20th Century Evening Sale.
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The painting was found tucked away in a closet by the niece of its owner, who revealed its existence shortly before her passing. This unforeseen revelation has excited the art community, with Tylee Abbott, senior specialist and head of American Art at Christie’s, describing the moment as a “once-in-a-lifetime” occurrence. He noted the unusual nature of rediscovering such a significant work among the well-documented portfolio of an artist as esteemed as O’Keeffe.
The work, created in 1930, is an exquisite depiction of New Mexico’s Lobo Peak, and it stands as one of O’Keeffe’s earlier and pivotal pieces. Christie’s representatives assert that it may be part of a three-piece series that encapsulates the vibrant landscapes that O’Keeffe cherished throughout her life. The painting exemplifies a modern interpretation that reflects the artist’s deep connection with the natural environment of her adopted home.
Georgia O’Keeffe, who was born in rural Wisconsin on November 15, 1887, has left an indelible mark on the art world. Delving into the diverse landscapes of northern New Mexico, she produced many works synonymous with her name and style. O’Keeffe settled in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she lived until her death on March 6, 1986, at the age of 98, further solidifying her bond with the region’s stunning scenery.
According to Christie’s, the painting showcases a fresh and modern perspective of O’Keeffe’s beloved landscapes, serving as a precursor to her later masterpieces that explored similar themes. With only a photograph from 1931 remaining before its rediscovery, “Near Abiquiu, New Mexico I” was originally gifted to the owner as a celebration of her academic achievements in 1963, purchased for $3,800 from The Downtown Gallery, O’Keeffe’s Manhattan dealer.
The owner, a highly educated figure who worked in the Foreign Service, displayed the painting proudly in her East Village apartment well into the 1980s. However, her decision to stow it away came after an incident during a game of bridge, where a guest appeared to be scrutinising the painting a bit too thoroughly for her comfort. Following that event, the artwork was returned to its box and hidden away, remaining unnoticed by her family until the unexpected revelation this year.
The story took a poignant turn when the owner mentioned the painting casually to her niece before her passing. Described as “sophisticated” and “ultra-intelligent” by those close to her, the woman’s legacy remains inextricably linked to this stunning artwork, leading her niece to reach out to Christie’s for further information after learning of its existence.
Christie’s will showcase “Near Abiquiu, New Mexico I” as one of the highlights during New York Marquee Week, a series of exhibitions that will also feature collections from notable figures like music executive Clive Davis. Those interested will have the opportunity to view the artwork first-hand in a public exhibition at Christie’s location at 20 Rockefeller Center, starting from November 7 until the auction day.
As the art world eagerly anticipates this significant sale, it serves as a reminder of the hidden treasures that may lie in the most unexpected of places. The story of this rediscovered O’Keeffe painting is much more than just an auction; it reflects the rich tapestry of personal histories intertwined with artistic heritage.
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