DuMouchelles
Live Auction

The October 2023 Auctions: Day 2

Fri, Oct 20, 2023 11:00AM EDT
Lot 1004

Norman Rockwell (American, 1894-1978) Oil on Canvas 1958, "The Manapessa" or "Portrait of Jackie Wells", H 37" W 14"

Estimate: $60,000 - $90,000

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$30 $10
$100 $25
$400 $50
$900 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,500
$50,000 $5,000
$150,000 $10,000
Norman Rockwell titled this work "The Manapessa" or "Portrait of Jackie Wells" and gifted it to Jackie Wells upon its completion. Signed with a personal inscription: "To My Friend Jackie Wells sincerely Norman Rockwell" . Verso inscribed Jacqueline Wells and 1958. Posed for August 12, 1958, when Wells was modeling in Lenox, MA. The sale of this work gained international attention in 1990 as being the only documented Rockwell nude portrait oil on canvas (there are documented nudes in Rockwell's sketchbooks). Jackie Wells was an American model whose career spanned more than thirty years. She made herself available to media in the time leading up to, and after the sale of this work. In many of these print and television interviews, she expressed her fondness and appreciation for Norman Rockwell. Ms. Wells passed away in 2014. Reference: Playboy Magazine, July issue, 1983, Provenance: Collection of Dr. Thomas Sullivan, West Bloomfield, MI. Purchased DuMouchelles Auction, February, 1990. Collection of Ms. Jackie Wells, Detroit, MI. Gifted by Norman Rockwell to Jackie Wells, 1958.

Condition

Excellent condition. No evidence of damage or restoration. Retains its original frame. | Please note all lots show signs of wear commensurate with age and use, and the lack of a statement regarding condition does not imply the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from defects or the effects of aging. Unless otherwise stated, all information provided is the opinion of DuMouchelles' specialists. Should you have any specific questions regarding the condition of this lot, please use the “Request Condition Report” or “Ask a Question” buttons or email conditions@dumoart.com.