African-American Fine Art

In Swann Auction Galleries’ upcoming African American Fine Art auction, some of the greatest African American artists of the 20th century will take center stage. A pulsing and varied celebration of black culture, this sale is packed with examples of folk art, fine art, and everything in between. 

Henry Ossawa Tanner’s At the Gates (Flight into Egypt) is a significant work depicting the Holy Family’s journey to Egypt following the events of the Nativity. This 1926 oil painting has been handed down for generations through the family of the original buyer, adding another layer of history to it. Another fascinating lot is a scarce print of Carrie Mae Weems’ White Patty, White Patty photograph. An unflinching look at racial slurs and their hard reality, this work speaks through both photography and printed text. 

The mediums represented range from paintings and sculptures to prints and lithographs. Elizabeth Catlett, Dawoud Bey, Sargent Johnson, and many more artists are featured, covering decades of art and culture in the African American community. View the full catalog and register for online bidding at Swann Galleries.