If you were inspired by the special exhibition of Thomas Gainsborough and the Modern Woman at the San Diego Museum of Art, you may be able to buy a similar portrait at auction later this month. On January 26, Christie’s will open bidding on “Portrait of a Lady.” The subject is traditionally identified as Miss Anna Maria Patten, half-length, with her spaniel in a landscape.
This portrait is a good example of the category of “affordable art.” It was not painted by Gainsborough or his chief rival for the honor of top British portrait artist, Sir Joshua Reynolds. It was painted by a student of Reynolds in a style similar to both masters and is therefore modestly priced. Christies’ experts estimate the value at $6,000 to $8,000. Original full sized portraits by Gainsborough or Sir Joshua Reynolds cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
You can get the latest information about “affordable art” by attending the first ever Los Angeles Affordable Art Fair. It takes place January 19 to 22 at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles.
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