Edward Sheriff Curtis Photographs Lead the Outsider, Folk, Contemporary & Fine Art Sale by Potter & Potter Auctions Benefiting Howard L. Gottlieb Foundation

A French Arcade automaton theater (circa 1900s) with ten vignettes showing ten scenes is a leading lot in the Outsider, Folk, Contemporary & Fine Art Sale by Potter & Potter Auctions. This working automaton is made of wood, metal, oil paint, fabric, and wiring. It was probably from an arcade around the turn of the century. The French are revered for this tradition of beautifully constructed kinetic sculptures. There are 10 vignettes, each with a faux-painted Corinthian column, and stylized ornaments of a floral nature. The firemen are seen pumping water for the burning buildings in the background. The husband pulls on donkey ears while the wife pulls on the tail on a landscape background. A farmer is grabbing a pig in a farm outbuilding background. It has also been refitted with twinkly white Christmas tree lights. 

A rare production image from the 1914 silent film “In the Land of the Head Hunters” is also a standout lot. The film was directed by Edward Sheriff Curtis (American, 1868-1952). Cutis is known for his photographs and portraits of the Native American tribes. The caption label reads, “10 b / Yoklus, Fierce War Chief, Played by Bulootsa – / Kwakiutl Ref. Pg. 63. / Pioneer Cinematographer.” The sale will offer photographs, prints, Folk, Fine, and Contemporary art. All proceeds will benefit the Howard L. Gottlieb Foundation, which has supported nonprofit organizations in the fine arts since 2015. View the complete catalog and register to bid, visit the Outsider, Folk, Contemporary & Fine Art Sale.