Norman Rockwell's 'Saying Grace' May Set An Auction Record

Norman Rockwell in front of his painting “Saying Grace”

Three Norman Rockwell paintings that resided in a New England museum is now set to be auctioned in New York City.

“The Gossips,” “Walking to Church,” and “Saying Grace” which seems to be the most desired piece may just have the chance to set an auction record for the American artist.

All three pieces had been on loan at the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Mass., known for having the world’s largest collection of original Rockwell art located in Rockwell’s hometown.

In 2006, Sotheby’s sold Rockwell’s “Breaking Home Ties” for $15.4 million, which is now the current record high for our American artist.

“Saying Grace,” which depicts an overcrowded restaurant with a woman and boy praying at their table, as two young men observe the sight, has a pre-sale estimate of $15 million to $20 million.

Amazingly the very talented Norman Rockwell was paid $3,500 for “Saying Grace” which appeared on the cover of Thanksgiving issue in 1951 and was voted Post readers favorite cover.

All seven Rockwell works are being sold by the family of Kenneth Stuart, Rockwell’s longtime art director at the magazine. The sale comes years after a legal fight over the works among Stuart’s three sons. Rockwell and Stuart worked together at the magazine for 18 years.

The illustrator, who created his first cover for the Post in 1916, is celebrated for his reflections of small-town America and portraits of famous figures. Rockwell spent 47 years at the magazine and produced 321 covers. He died in 1978.