Los Angeles, CA — McKaughan’s collaborations with legendary figures like Alexander Calder, Emilio Pucci, Alexander Girard, and Roy Halston Frowick made Braniff more than just an airline — it became a flying canvas for modern art and fashion. The collection offered a time capsule of this glamorous era, featuring everything from flight attendant uniforms to rare design proofs and fabric samples. But the real standouts were the artworks and memorabilia connected to Calder.
One major highlight was Untitled, a 1976 Alexander Calder piece gifted to McKaughan. Originally estimated at $20,000 to $30,000, the artwork smashed expectations, selling for $38,100, with premium. Another unexpected gem was a Braniff model airplane designed by Calder in the 1970s. Measuring just under three feet wide, this retro masterpiece included sixteen large-format photos of Calder taken by McKaughan himself. The final hammer price soared to $31,750, with premium.
A Calder designed Braniff model airplane Price Realized: $31,750
While Calder’s bold art appealed to modern art enthusiasts, Emilio Pucci’s unmistakable flair drew vintage fashion lovers. All 39 lots of Pucci’s airline uniforms dazzled bidders, raking in a total including premium of $51,245. McKaughan’s eye for creativity played a huge role in Braniff’s collaborations. His partnership with Alexander Calder, in particular, was legendary. Calder, known for his kinetic sculptures and bright, whimsical forms, brought his signature style to the skies with the Flying Colors campaign in 1973. This project celebrated Braniff’s expansion into South America, with Calder painting a DC-8 jetliner in bold hues inspired by the region’s vibrant landscapes. Calder even added playful “beasties” to the engines, creating designs that later formed a rare set of lithographs. The Flying Colors campaign’s success led to a second collaboration in 1975, marking the U.S. Bicentennial. This time, Calder decked out a Boeing 727-200 in red, white, and blue ribbon-like designs, producing more lithographs and test works now part of McKaughan’s estate collection. Calder’s contributions to Braniff became a defining moment in his career — a colorful finale before his passing in 1976.
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.
Ian Anderson Associate Specialist, Fine Art
““One of the highlights of my year was working on the John McKaughan Jr. Collection. McKaughan Jr. was the Art Director for Braniff International Airlines and worked closely with Alexander Calder during their Flying Colors Collaboration. He also worked alongside Emilio Pucci since Pucci designed the stewardess outfits for Braniff Airlines starting in 1965. It was also during his time as the Art Director, John McKaughan Jr. traveled extensively to various Latin American countries and built up an incredible collection of Latin American artwork and decorative items.“”
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.