– A Martin Johnson Heade still life of tropical plums was actively bid to a selling price of $195,500 at Waterhouse Gallery’s auction this past Saturday, September 20.

Bidding opened at $40,000 and flickered between telephone bidders and a bidder in the saleroom before selling to a determined New York buyer in the room.

The picture, said to be one of only two views of tropical fruit by Heade, was accompanied by a letter of authentication from painting authority Theodore E. Stebbins, Jr, of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Stebbins curated the Heade show in Boston several years ago and is the author of the definitive work on Heade.

The painting, which had never been publicly offered before, measured 10 by 15 inches. The buyer said she plans to enjoy the picture at home but added that it is for sale.

A complete review will appear in a future issue.