Christie's other Impressionist offerings produced mixed results. The picture had reportedly been on the market for a long time at a much higher price. They belong to Seema Boesky, ex-wife of Wall Street finagler Ivan Boesky. Several other Hassams and at least one Frieseke were also bought in. Put three women in white dresses on that Hassam bridge, and it would have sold.
Prices are so high, people want to protect themselves and buy a picture that fits the formula.
Prices are climbing for works by artists who are not exactly household names, starting with Birge Harrison. This sale didn't give us much reading on the American West or modern markets because so little in those categories was offered. There were a couple of exceptions. Dealers Ira Spanierman and Judy Goffman must be on some kind of N.C. Wyeth kick. At the end of the day the refrain remained, so many buyers and so little out there to buy.