The Spectacular Collection of Harriet and Seymour Koenig Soars Past Estimates in Cowan’s Spring American Indian & Western Art

Pottery and textiles from the collection were in high demand during Cowan’s $1.3M Spring Auction.

An exceptional collection of pottery, textiles, fine art, and katsinas from the southwestern United States led the way in Cowan’s Spring American Indian & Western Art: Premier Auction on April 5, 2019. The spectacular Collection of Harriet and Seymour Koenig accounted for over $250,000 of the $1.3M sales total (including a 20% Buyer’s Premium), nearly doubling the low estimate for the collection.

Lot 258, Nampeyo of Hano (Hopi, 1859-1942) Attributed, Pictorial Pottery Jar, From The Harriet and Seymour Koenig Collection, NY; Sold for $18,750

“The prices today prove just how great an eye Harriet and Seymour had when assembling this beautiful collection,” said Danica Farnand, Cowan’s director of American Indian & Western Art. “Bidders could feel the passion and love of the region exuding from every piece.”

The top lot from the collection was a late 19th century Zuni polychrome olla that sold for $33,210. A large form, having a concave base, sharp shoulders, and slightly flared rim, the olla was painted boldly with stylized rainbirds, birds with flowers in their beaks, and finely crosshatched winged elements.