Howard Fogg Original Artwork Paintings

[KathysCountryCorner]

I believe that I just found an original watercolor painting by Howard Fogg. It is not in the best condition but I found out that the prints still being produced from this original are called "Niagra 6000 4-8-4" or "Niagara Type 4-8-4 Locomotive, Class S-1-b, on New York Central Train No. 50 -- "The Empire State Express", in the Highlands of the Hudson, 1948 from original painting by Howard Fogg". Was eBay the best avenue and what should I start the bid at? Can you tell me what you sold yours for even though it was so long ago or can anyone else help me out? What to do with it???

[chuckles]

I believe that Al Chione, who lives around Durango,CO has a large collection of Howard Fogg paintings.

He is sometimes an advertiser in the back of Trains or Classic Trains magazines.

Chuck

[AltonFan]

Even if you you don't plan on selling the items, having the items appraised for insurance/estate planning purposes might still be worthwhile.

[henry6]

I was the one who suggested Soothebey's but it was taken down.  BUT, yes, be sure they are the original art work by all means.  ALCO/GE commissioned him to do paintings of their products in the 1950s; he would work from photos and actually visit some locations.  The paintings were made into prints...two sizes, one larger than the other.  Most were done in one or the other but not both sizes.  If what you have is original, I think oil art work, then do take to a reputable art dealer or auction house.  Christies is another.  Check with a local art society, museum, or dealer for suggestions,too.

[Route of the Eagles]

If these are actual Howard Fogg "Paintings" I would hold on to them if you even have the slightest interest in railroading.  If you don't by all means find a buyer that has that interest. 

However if these are Howard Fogg "Prints" the value would be reduced, but the interest to a railroader or railfan would still be there and the would sale.

I have a Fogg print of a Missouri Pacific an Alco FA that has been in our family since the 1950s.

[PFM]

Happy, to show the artwork.  Not sure how to do it on this forum? 

[Stourbridge Lion]

Heck, I would love to see a digital photo of them even if it's in low resolution with a watermark on them to protect their value.  As suggested, if you don't need the money from the sale I would keep them and or get them into a museums hands for others to enjoy and folks will remember you for remembering them.

[FlyingCrow]

I'm somewhat surprised you don't want to hang on these, but there are several suggested avenues if you really want to sell them.

A.   Contact a well known auction house specializing in fine art.  I think one of our regular posters suggested Sotheby's; and there's also Christies.     A quick search of the internet and calls to fine art galleries in New York will give you your answer.

B.  Consign through an established gallery, consignment shop.  Doyle , New York comes to mind , but there are others.

C.  Set up your own auction and advertise in TRAINS, CLASSIC TRAINS, etc.     This will take the most work and time but you'll get all the money and won't have to pay heavy auction house fees.

D.  Sell online through one of the existing auction websites.   I, personally, would rather give the stuff away than do this.

E.  Donate the artwork to established museums institutions for tax credits, or just the fact that it will be in their possession, safe with YOUR name as the donor, almost forever...some legacy.

 

Do you have values on all of the paintings?   If you do not have a current appraisal, that's where I'd start first before doing any of the above.

Best wishes.

[PFM]

I have several Howard Fogg Original pieces of artwork from the PFM estate and wondering how I can find collectors - any suggestions?