Los Angeles, CA — John Moran Auctioneers’ Fine Art Department wrapped up 2024 with a spectacular series of sales that showcased both traditional and contemporary art. Spirited international bidding set the stage for Agnes Pelton’s ethereal Sleep to shine in the Modern + Contemporary Art auction. Historic California Plein Air painters like Edgar Payne, Elsie Palmer Payne, Hanson Puthuff, and Elmer Wachtel also made waves, drawing strong prices and demonstrating their enduring appeal among collectors. Meanwhile, contemporary Native artist John Nieto’s dynamic painting in the Art of the American West sale doubled its pre-sale estimate, further highlighting the department’s breadth and market reach.
Raimonds Staprans A Study of Down-Rolling Oranges with a Staid Neon Apple, 2005 Price Realized: $237,500
Latin American Art took center stage in another standout auction, with works by celebrated artists such as Carlos Mérida, Diego Rivera, Rufino Tamayo, José Luis Cuevas, and Rodolfo Opazo smashing expectations and dominating the results. Moran’s dedication to presenting a diverse array of significant works continued to attract a global audience, reinforcing its reputation as a boutique auction house with a knack for compelling storytelling and curatorial excellence.
Elsie Palmer Payne (1884-1971) Neighborhood mailboxes Price Realized: $7,625
Adding to the department’s momentum was the exciting return of Katherine “Katie” Halligan, AAA, who rejoined the Moran team as Fine Art Director in October. With over 25 years of experience in the art world, Katie’s career includes roles at international and regional auction houses, galleries, and private appraisal firms. Her expertise spans 19th and 20th Century European and American fine art, with a special focus on California and Western art. Notably, she has worked with the estates of artists like Conrad Buff and Arthur Dominique Rozaire and has lectured and published on various California and Western art movements.
Katie Halligan, AAA, Fine Art Director
“Adding to the department’s momentum was the exciting return of Katherine “Katie” Halligan, AAA, who rejoined the Moran team as Fine Art Director in October.”
Katie’s journey began in New York, where she interned at Christie’s, the Herbert F. Johnson Museum, and David Findlay Jr. Fine Art. After relocating to California, she honed her skills at George Stern Fine Arts and served as Assistant Vice President in the American Paintings Department at Christie’s Los Angeles. From 2006 to 2013, Katie served as Fine Art Director at John Moran Auctioneers before branching out into private appraisal work with Gurr Johns and leading the Western Fine Art department at Bonhams.
Now a Certified Fine Art Appraiser with the Appraisers Association of America and USPAP compliant, Katie’s return marks an exciting chapter for Moran’s Fine Art Department. Her deep knowledge, leadership, and dedication will be invaluable as the department continues to grow and curate remarkable collections.
With an exceptional year in the books and Katie Halligan’s expertise back on board, Moran’s Fine Art Department is set to reach new heights in 2025 and beyond. The team is primed for even greater success, with high expectations for groundbreaking auctions and record-breaking sales in the year ahead.
Rodolfo Opazo Unicornio Virrey, 1967 Price Realized: $12,700