A Happy Little Surprise: Bob Ross Painting Beats Auction Estimate
Lake with Cabin & Trees, an oil painting by Bob Ross for two of his friends, sold for $47,500 at Alex Cooper Auctioneers.
The Joy of Painting ended in 1994, but host Bob Ross is still a star. The show found immense success online and in reruns; fans buy painting supplies and merchandise from Bob Ross Inc., and his paintings reach high prices at auctions. Alex Cooper Auctioneers recently offered a painting by Ross at its Gallery Auction on October 31, which was estimated at $20,000 to $30,000. In what’s been called, to paraphrase Ross himself, a “happy little surprise,” the painting sold for $47,500, more than doubling its low estimate.
The framed oil painting, listed as “Lake with Cabin & Trees,” is a peaceful nature scene like the ones Ross taught his viewers to paint. However, there are a few apparent differences. This one features an unusual composition, with the scene occupying an oval on the canvas, framed on one side with grass and, of course, a tree extending beyond the shape’s border. But to see what makes it truly unique, you must turn it around. The back bears an inscription from Ross himself, reading “To Sid and Dorothy, two very special friends – wishing you both every success – Happy Painting, Bob Ross, 1987.”
The reverse of the painting, with Ross’s inscription on the left.
The painting was a gift from Ross to personal friends, and the inscription conveys the same kindness and love of painting that shines through in his show. The recipients, Sidney and Dorothy Knudsen, passed it along to their daughter Arlene Alascio, who then willed it to the seller, her brother-in-law.
A closer look at the inscription.
Considering the high prices Bob Ross’ paintings have reached at recent auctions, including a record $114,800 at Bonhams earlier this year, maybe the final price for “Lake with Cabin & Trees” isn’t surprising. Whether the paintings are seen as pop-culture kitsch, souvenirs of a simpler time, or true works of art, one thing is sure: they have serious value.
Photos courtesy of Alex Cooper Auctioneers.
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