African-American Fine Art

Raised in Harlem, New York during the 1930s, Jacob Lawrence was an influential Modernist painter active throughout the 20th century. He was nationally-recognized for his paintings capturing the experiences of African-Americans. After completing several paintings of abolitionist John Brown, Lawrence began several paintings of rural African-American life in the South. Cutting Logs #51 was created during this period, one of only six surviving works in the series. This gouache, watercolor, and ink painting will be presented in the upcoming African-American Fine Art sale, offered by Swann Auction Galleries. 

This auction of almost 200 items will include work from John Biggers, Elizabeth Catlett, and David Hammons. Women, Ghana, a 1960s oil painting by Biggers, is among the lots of interest. The piece was inspired by Biggers’ travels to Africa, where he observed the power that women held in many of the native cultures. This painting depicts several women laying out baskets on striped blue rugs, looking toward a winding path. A portfolio of 18 silver prints from Harlem Renaissance photographer James VanDerZee is also available. Browse the complete selection of African-American art and register to bid for these items on the Swann Auction Galleries website.