Childe Hassam’s “Landscape, Eastern Oregon” almost doubled its high estimate of $14,000-18,000 at Matthew’s Galleries September 21st auction, selling just shy of $34,000 including the buyer’s premium.  The painting was unwittingly rediscovered this past summer, and will be included in the Hassam Catalogue Raisonné by Kathleen Burnside & Stuart Feld.  Measuring

5 1/8” x 8 ¼”, it is typical of Hassam’s Oregon work during his visit in 1908.  Matthew W. Gerber, gallery director/owner, stated before the auction that the estimate was “moderately reasonable”, but “wouldn’t be surprised if it brought between $20,000 and $30,000.”  After an aggressive bidding war, the painting was knocked down to an East Coast collector on a phone line.  The gallery is now accepting consignments for its spring 2011 fine and decorative arts auction.