Exceptional Antiquities, Asian, Ethnographic

William F. Draper was a portrait painter and former combat artist who painted many leading political and cultural figures of the 20th century. He is best known for his portrait of John F. Kennedy that was completed a year before his assassination. Draper was the only artist for whom President Kennedy posed during his lifetime. A key lot in the upcoming Exceptional Antiquities, Asian, Ethnographic sale, presented by Artemis Gallery, is a portrait of Kennedy by Draper. This piece shows the President sitting in a rocking chair, dressed in a charcoal grey suit, white dress shirt, and striped tie. He gazes at the viewer with a slight smile.

This auction will offer 180 lots of fine art, ancient jewelry, fossils, and more. An Egyptian coffin lid is particularly highlighted. The Late Dynastic Period coffin lid is carved from hardwood and depicts a serene countenance atop an elaborately decorated body. Examples of these coffins first appeared during the Middle Kingdom of Egypt, between 2050 and 1710 BCE. They are carved with the outline of the mummy’s body and decorated to resemble the deceased. Such coffins not only served to keep the mummy within but also acted as a substitute for the body in case it was lost or destroyed.

A Native American tipi liner will be offered as well. The tipi is made of five large stitched buffalo hide panels with geometric motifs. A tipi liner is hung on the tipi’s lower walls to protect from drafts and rainwater, also creating another layer of privacy. Visit Bidsquare for more information and to register to bid.