The Violet Taaffe Estate

In the early 20th century, while many photographers began to favor the clean modernism of Group f/64 (an artist collective based in San Fransisco), William Mortensen favored Pictorialism. Active during the same period as Group f/64, he endured significant criticism for his dark, romantic, and mystical works as a result. He often explored themes of death, psychology, and American cinema. Mortensen published several books defending his style and giving tutorials in posing, as well as numerous photography portfolios. One such collection of 23 Mortensen photos will be available in the upcoming Turner Auctions + Appraisals event. Each of the prints was made using the bromoil printing process. This sale highlights items from the estate of Violet Taaffe, an established San Francisco resident, and art collector. Taaffe was also a social worker, teacher, and active community member.

Among the auction’s offerings are etchings from Armin Carl Hansen, a California artist known for his seascapes and portraits of fishermen. Cosimo Aiello, Man of the Sea is among the key Hansen works on offer. It shows the head and shoulders of a fisherman in profile as he squints into the distance. The subjects of the artist’s other available etchings include sinking ships, Belgian farm scenes, and busy harbors. 

Platinum and diamond jewelry lots, including a solitaire ring and vintage clip earrings, are featured as well. More contemporary jewelry pieces in the catalog include a pair of 18-karat gold and enamel leopard earrings from Charles Garnier and a selection of gold charm bracelets. A pair of 18th or 19th-century Chinese cloisonné lidded censers, early 20th-century silver teapots, and several Japanese bronze sculptures round out this auction. For more information on the mentioned lots and to place a bid, visit Bidsquare.