
( Brand: Sothebys ), ( Origin: United States ), ( Number Of Pages: Page Numbers Not Indicated. With 111 Items Listed With Some Illus ), ( Size: Catalog Size ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: SALE-5118 ), ( Publication Year: 1983 ), ( Type: Catalog ), ( Unit Type: Unit ), ( Format: Softcover ), ( Language: English ), ( Personalized: No ), ( Features: Illustrated ), ( Topic: Auction ), ( Season: Winter )
This historic Ben Heller Sale catalog, Sotheby's Sale 5118, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of fine rare books and manuscripts from the golden age of bibliophilia. Dated December 1983, this sale represented a significant event in the international book trade, featuring an extensive collection of rare and valuable materials from the esteemed Ben Heller Rare Books, Inc.
The catalog boasts an impressive array of categories, including bibles and religious texts, literature, history, science, and more. Each item is meticulously described, providing valuable context for collectors and scholars alike. The entries include essential details such as the author, title, publication place and date, condition, provenance, and, in some cases, annotated inscriptions.
One of the most intriguing sections of the catalog is devoted to early printed books. Among these treasures are notable works such as the first edition of Shakespeare's "Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies," published in 1623, and the first edition of the "Oxford English Dictionary," published between 1884 and 1933. These items are not only rare but also of significant historical importance, making them essential additions to any serious collection.
Another section of the catalog showcases a selection of illustrated books, featuring works by renowned artists such as Albrecht D rer and Rembrandt van Rijn. These visually stunning volumes are not only cherished for their artistic merit but also for their rarity and historical significance.
The sale also offers a variety of manuscripts and autographs, including letters from figures such as Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and Mark Twain. These primary sources offer a rare and personal connection to the past, making them invaluable resources for scholars and collectors.
The Ben Heller Sale, Sotheby's Sale 5118, is a testament to the rich history of the book trade and the enduring allure of rare and valuable materials. This catalog is not only a valuable resource for collectors and scholars but also a fascinating time capsule, offering a glimpse into the world of bibliophilia during the 1980s.
Ben Heller is an American artist known for his abstract expressionist paintings. In December 1983, Sotheby's auction house held a sale (Sale-5118) featuring several of his works. Below are some potential pros and cons for buying a Ben Heller artwork from this specific Sotheby's sale catalog, followed by an Recommendation.
Pros:1. Provenance: Buying from a reputable auction house like Sotheby's adds value and authenticity to the artwork.
2. Market Exposure: Sotheby's sale catalog offers a wide range of potential buyers, both collectors and dealers, increasing the chances of finding a suitable buyer.
3. Expert Appraisal: The auction house's experts have evaluated the artwork, providing potential buyers with a professional assessment of the piece's condition, rarity, and estimated value.
4. Historical Significance: Ben Heller's abstract expressionist works are part of a significant and influential art movement. Collecting a piece from this period could be an investment in art history.
5. Diversity of Offerings: Sotheby's Sale-5118 featured various Ben Heller works, allowing potential buyers to choose from different styles, sizes, and mediums to fit their specific preferences and budget.
Cons:1. Cost: Auctions can be expensive, and the competitive bidding process might drive up the final price beyond a potential buyer's budget.
2. Uncertainty: The final sale price is not guaranteed, and potential buyers could end up paying more than they planned or even lose the bid.
3. Limited Information: The auction catalog may not provide comprehensive details about the artwork's provenance, condition, or restoration history, making it difficult for potential buyers to make informed decisions.
4. Travel and Logistics: If the artwork is not locally available, potential buyers would need to consider travel costs, shipping, and insurance to acquire the piece.
5. Time Constraints: Auctions have strict deadlines, and potential buyers must act quickly to place their bids.
Conclusion:Buying a Ben Heller artwork from Sotheby's Sale-5118 comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Potential buyers should carefully weigh the pros and cons based on their specific circumstances, priorities, and budget. While there are risks involved, such as uncertain costs and time constraints, the benefits, like provenance, exposure, and expert appraisals, can add significant value to the artwork investment. Ultimately, the decision to purchase a Ben Heller artwork from this auction catalog depends on the potential buyer's level of risk tolerance, expertise, and art market knowledge.
Recommendation:For collectors or dealers with a solid understanding of Ben Heller's artwork and the auction market, as well as a sizable budget, buying from Sotheby's Sale-5118 could be an excellent opportunity to acquire a valuable and historically significant piece. However, for those with limited resources or experience, it may be wise to consider alternative, more accessible purchasing channels or consult with an art advisor before making a decision.
With 385 items Listed with some illustrations, Catalog size: 8.75 x 9.25 inches.