Winfield Auction Gallery – Antiques, Fine & Decorative Arts Online Only Auction
SATURDAY MARCH 15, 2025 12 PM EDT
winfieldauctiongallery.com
26 Palmer Road N., Big Flats, NY 14814

BIG FLATS, N.Y. — A previously unknown portrait by American master Robert Henri (1865-1929) was discovered among other notable works in the attic of the Craige family’s prominent summer home. The painting, a striking portrait of Henri’s wife, Linda Craige Henri, has remained in the family’s private collection for generations and has never before been seen by the public. On March 15 at Winfield Auction Gallery, this extraordinary work will be offered at auction, presenting collectors and art enthusiasts with a rare opportunity to acquire a fresh-to-market masterpiece by one of America’s most celebrated painters.

The painting, which captures Linda Craige Henri with Henri’s signature expressive brushwork and deep psychological insight, was uncovered by a Craige family member while removing items from the attic of the Craige’s summer home in Pennsylvania. The discovery is particularly exciting given the scarcity of Henri’s intimate portraits of family members, making this auction a truly historic event.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors,” said Mike Watts, gallery owner. “To find an untouched work by Robert Henri — especially one of such personal significance — is a rare and thrilling moment in the art and auction worlds. We are truly honored to be representing this important family portrait.”

Robert Henri was a visionary artist and influential teacher whose impact on American art remains profound, often referred to as “the father of independent painting.” As the leader of the Ashcan School, he rejected the idealized academic traditions of his time in favor of a bold, realistic portrayal of contemporary life. He encouraged his students — including notable figures such as Edward Hopper and George Bellows — to paint with emotion and authenticity. It was the attitude and approach to art, as opposed to the style, which was important in his teachings. Of note, in 1898, Henri married a student from his private art class, Linda Craige, the subject of this portrait.

While Henri is best known for his urban street scenes and portraits of diverse subjects, many of which are housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, his paintings of loved ones hold a special place in his oeuvre. This portrait of his wife, Linda, is particularly rare and sought after, as it reveals a deeply personal side of the artist’s talent.

Henri’s works have seen strong demand in recent years, with collectors eager to acquire his expressive portraits. His paintings regularly achieve impressive results at auction, with notable works fetching six- and seven-figure sums. Given the rarity and provenance of this newly discovered portrait, experts anticipate significant interest from private collectors and institutions alike.

“The fact that this painting has never been publicly exhibited makes it an incredibly exciting addition to the market,” explained Watts. “Henri’s ability to capture the inner life of his sitters is unparalleled, and this portrait of Linda Craige Henri is a prime example of his genius.”

The portrait will be a highlight of Winfield Auction Gallery’s upcoming sale. Pre-sale viewing will be conducted, allowing collectors and the public a rare opportunity to view this hidden gem before it finds its new home.

Winfield Auction Gallery is at 26 Palmer Road North. For information, 607-438-3082 or www.winfieldauctiongallery.com.

Phone & Absentee Bids Accepted 607.438.3082 | wags.auctions@gmail.com
300+ Hand-Picked Estate Pieces Including:
1. Lg. Bisque by Vion et Baury 2. Craige Family by Thos. Sully 3. Jeweled Sterling Chalice 4. Monumental Chinese Chippendale 5. Portrait by Robert Henri 6. Bronze 4′ Shiva 7. Lg. Bronze & Marble Louis XIV 8. Roycroft 9. L&JG Stickley 10. Persian Serapi 1880s 11. French Bonheur du Jour 12. Art Nouveau by Galle 13. Sevres 14. Prairie School 15. Lg. Tibetan Silver 16. Lg. Neoclassical Bronze 17. Victor V, Oak Horn 18. Oversized Cast Stone
Preview begins February 20, 2025 Thursday through Sunday, 12 pm – 4 pm or by appointment 26 Palmer Road N., Big Flats, NY 14814
QUICK QUOTES AVAILABLE FOR SHIPPING & DELIVERY – TEXT: 607.973.0066