394

(NEW YORK CITY.) Hughson Hawley; attributed to. [Trinity and United States Realty Buildings].

(NEW YORK CITY.) Hughson Hawley; attributed to. [Trinity and United States Realty Buildings]. Graphite, ink, and watercolor on paper. 53 1/2x42 inches sight size; archivally attached to acid-free board with silk-covered duplex matting; stains and restorations; attractive gilt frame. New York, circa 1907

  • Notes: A dominant rendering of the magnificent Gothic-inspired Financial District skyscrapers designed by New York City architect Francis H. Kimball.

    A signature cannot be located but the inimitable style and detailed focus of Hughson Hawley is seen in every block of curtain wall limestone and ornamental finial. Trinity Church and the Empire Building (also designed by Kimball) can be seen to the left of the Broadway façade; a wide-open plaza is to the right where Zuccotti Park currently exists; and an elevated train runs behind the buildings.

    We have been able to trace several instances of the image reproduced in the early 20th century, though nothing close to the grand scale of this original watercolor. Its likeness is pictured and captioned in the January 26, 1907 Real Estate Record and Builders' Guide on page 156; on several contemporary postcards or advertisement-type ephemera; and the Museum of the City of New York holds a photographic dry plate negative of the watercolor, credited to the Wurts Brothers.

    In the lower margin there is some writing, "For Mr. Kimball…", a line which appears to be something along the lines of original framing specifications rather than a gift inscription. Certainly Mr. Kimball would have wished to proudly display such an authentic and imposing illustration of one of his greatest architectural achievements.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Upon request, Swann will facilitate the shipping of purchases to out-of-town buyers at an additional charge for packing, shipping and insurance, but will not be responsible for any loss, damage or delay resulting from the packing, handling and shipping thereof. Unless specific instructions are received, Swann is the sole judge of the method to be used for shipment. Packing and shipping costs will be noted on the invoice mailed to successful bidders after the sale, and are based on the actual costs involved. Be advised that a full commercial invoice must accompany any purchase shipped outside the US.

December 9, 2021 10:30 AM EST
New York, NY, US

Swann Auction Galleries

You agree to pay a buyer’s premium, as outlined below, and any applicable taxes and shipping.
Buyer's Premium
$0 - $100,000:
30.00%
$100,001 - $1,000,000:
25.00%
$1,000,001+:
17.00%

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $149 $10
$150 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $5,999 $200
$6,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 $499,999 $20,000
$500,000 + $50,000