Los Angeles, CA — John Moran Auctioneers’ Art of the American West sales stand out as one of their most popular genres, showcasing a diverse array of fine art, textiles, pottery, basketry, and jewelry. These auctions consistently achieve impressive results, routinely selling 90% or more by lot and averaging 105% by value. At the helm of this thriving category is Vice President and Specialist Maranda Moran, whose strategy of conservative pricing to attract interest has proven highly effective, with buyers eagerly outbidding estimates. This success has led to an expansion from two to as many as five sales per year.
Margaret Tafoya (1904-2001, Santa Clara Pueblo) Price Realized: $4,620
Two distinct groups of buyers dominate this category: seasoned collectors and entry-level or trendy collectors. The seasoned collectors, often older and more experienced, may be less active but still jump at rare finds they’ve sought for years. Entry-level and trendy collectors typically start with fine art or jewelry before gradually expanding into decorative items like textiles and baskets. While a small percentage stick with this genre, some adjust their collecting habits and start blending categories.
“John Moran Auctioneers’ 2024 Art of the American West auctions have reinforced the company’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich artistic traditions of the region.”
The Art of the American West sales benefit from collaboration across Moran’s departments. The fine art team strategically consigns top names in western and native art, contributing to world auction records. Notable sales from 2024 include Oscar Howe’s “Grass Dancer (Pezhin wachipi)” (1959), which sold for $114,300, John Nieto’s “Desert Water II” (1984) at $22,440, and Lew Davis’s “Waterhole No. 2” (1975) achieving $13,970. While maintaining consistency in quantity and quality, each sale features eye-catching legacy collections, such as Hupa basketry hats and extensive jewelry collections.
A Hupa/Yurok/Karuk polychrome basketry hat Price Realized: $3,300
John Moran Auctioneers’ 2024 Art of the American West auctions have reinforced the company’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich artistic traditions of the region. Under Maranda Moran’s expert guidance, these sales continue to attract both seasoned and new collectors, solidifying Moran’s reputation as a trusted destination for institutions and individuals alike. As we reflect on an exciting year, it’s evident that Moran’s continues to set the standard for excellence in the field, bringing history, culture, and artistry to the forefront with every auction.