Fine Arts Auction: Pennsylvania Impressionists & Mid-Century Modern Finds
By Darren Smith, Arts Reporter
June 11, 2026
In the heart of Pennsylvania’s auction scene, Alderfer Auctions is poised to captivate collectors today with its highly anticipated Fine Arts and Mid-Century Modern Design sale. This online-only event, kicking off bidding at 10:00 AM EDT, showcases an exceptional array of Pennsylvania Impressionist masterworks alongside sleek 20th-century design icons, offering something for both traditional art enthusiasts and modernist aficionados.
The auction’s fine art section shines brightest with works by leading lights of the Pennsylvania Impressionist movement. Edward Willis Redfield, renowned for his vigorous brushwork and luminous winter landscapes, headlines the offerings. Redfield’s pieces, which have long defined American regional Impressionism, promise strong interest from bidders seeking museum-quality examples. Joining him are Fern Isabel Coppedge, celebrated for her vibrant, colorful winter scenes, and Walter Elmer Schofield, whose atmospheric depictions of Bucks County countryside continue to resonate with collectors. Other standouts include works by George William Sotter, John Fulton Folinsbee, Walter Emerson Baum, and Daniel Garber, artists who helped establish New Hope as a pivotal artistic colony in the early 20th century.
These paintings capture the essence of the region’s rolling hills, sparkling rivers, and dappled sunlight—qualities that have drawn generations of admirers to the Pennsylvania Impressionists. As one of the most cohesive and accessible schools of American art, their works frequently achieve robust results at auction, blending historical significance with enduring decorative appeal. Alderfer’s curation highlights this depth, presenting pieces that not only represent artistic excellence but also serve as tangible connections to Pennsylvania’s rich cultural heritage.
Complementing the Impressionist treasures is a robust Mid-Century Modern selection that bridges classic fine art with forward-looking design. Furniture by Knoll, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Thomas Moser takes center stage, offering clean lines and functional elegance. Signed prints by Andy Warhol and Victor Vasarely add pop-art energy, while sculpture by Klaus Ihlenfeld and paintings by Raoul Dufy provide sculptural and coloristic intrigue. Scandinavian design elements, including pieces by Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen, along with teak and walnut lounge seating, round out a section that appeals to contemporary interior enthusiasts.
Beyond art and furniture, the sale features decorative highlights such as a Tiffany “Pomegranate” art glass table lamp, Daum cameo glass, Rookwood pottery, and an impressive sterling silver collection including a Reed & Barton tea service and over 20 flatware sets. Jewelry lovers will find Oscar Friedman ruby and diamond pieces and a striking 3.6-carat diamond ring, while numismatists can pursue Liberty Head gold coins and American Gold Eagles. Historic ephemera—from Founding Fathers’ autographs to items from Lauren Bacall’s personal estate—adds narrative richness.
Alderfer Auctions, based in Hatfield, Pennsylvania, has built a reputation for expertly curated sales that balance accessibility with quality. This June 11 event continues that tradition, with pre-bidding already active and live auction dynamics ensuring competitive energy. The sliding-scale buyer’s premium—starting at 25% and decreasing for higher-value lots—makes participation attractive across budgets.
What sets this auction apart is its thoughtful integration of periods and styles. Collectors can move seamlessly from a luminous Redfield landscape to a modernist Knoll chair, creating opportunities for eclectic, personalized collections that tell stories across decades.
As the gavel falls today, opportunities abound for both seasoned investors and emerging enthusiasts. Whether you’re drawn to the poetic light of Pennsylvania’s Impressionists or the bold innovation of mid-century design, this sale promises discoveries that could anchor any collection for years to come.
Explore the full catalog and register to bid now at Alderfer Auctions. View live lots on LiveAuctioneers. For condition reports or previews, visit the Alderfer site. Learn more about Pennsylvania Impressionists in related coverage from Bucks County Herald. Discover additional highlights on Alderfer’s blog.
Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of art history—place your bids today before this exceptional collection disperses to new homes. (Word count: 652)
The cover image in this article was AI-generated.
