Kentucky Auction House has opened in Lexington, Kentucky.  Specializing in the fine and decorative arts of Kentucky and the Ohio River Valley region, the company will also deal in other areas of art, silver, furniture, and Americana.

Founded by Bill Evans Meng, formerly the director of Cross Gate Gallery and The Sporting Art Auction, the first sale will be March 16th.  This sale, termed their "Inaugural Kentucky Sale," will feature historic works created by the state's artists and makers ranging from the 18th century to contemporary works.  Highlighting it will be a portrait of Henry Clay by Matthew Harris Jouett, painted circa 1818.  Furniture, silver, art pottery and other forms will also be available, though consignments are still being taken.

During his time at Cross Gate Gallery, Meng has already been dealing with regional work, notably setting the record prices for both watercolor and oil works by Paul Sawyier, maybe Kentucky's most famous artist.