The Picasso might have been part of an ongoing
departure, in 1950, from the core of Impressionist
art and English and American antiques the Whitneys
enjoyed. The Beardsley did as well. Both represent
diverse artistic styles and media. But, two generations
later, to their new owners acquiring them, however
divergent their values might be (the Picasso sold for $104
million, the Beardsley for a few hundred) they represent
a devotion to art for art���s sake, regardless of style or
relative importance. Together, at Greentree, the sum
of the parts signified lives, hearts and minds thoroughly
engaged, a total participation in the broadest cultural
currents surrounding them. This is compelling mantra.
The next time you read about the lively contemporary
art scene in Berlin, Williamsburg or Chelsea in New
York City, on Cape Cod, Massachusetts or in Bombay,
voyage there if you can. At the same time, visit print
and engraving fairs. And above all, open your mind to
the contents of other minds at estate sales. H
Christopher Hyland
