Artist Spotlight: Joseph Raphael

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary

Joseph Raphael, a California native, studied at the California School of Design.

He saved money during the 1890s, first as a newspaper illustrator and later as a sign painter, to continue his artistic studies overseas. He spent most of his life aboard, living 36 years in Paris and the Netherlands.


Joseph Raphael, <em>Portrait of a Young Lady</em>.
Joseph Raphael (American, 1869–1950), Portrait of a Young Lady, oil on canvas (laid down on board), 16″ x 12.25″.
Sold: $3,780

Keeping strong ties to San Francisco, he exhibited his paintings regularly in local shows and through Albert Bender, a patron of early works of Ansel Adams and Diego Rivera. Before World War II, he returned to San Francisco and maintained a studio on 345 Sutter Street until his death on December 11, 1950.


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Summer Modern + Contemporary Design Highlights

The June 15th Modern + Contemporary Design Auction will feature master craftsman from across genres and cultures as well as exciting collectibles.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Artist Spotlight: David Hockney

Working across multiple mediums, David Hockney is known for his painting, drawing, prints, photography, collage, set design and digital media.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary

From the Estate of Rita Moreno

Clars will be offering select items from the personal collection of EGOT winning actress, the legendary Rita Moreno, at our Summer Design Auction on June 15th.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary

Summer Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

This June 15th at Clars Auction Gallery, we are excited to offer a number of excellent pieces by esteemed artists throughout the Modern and Contemporary periods.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Artist Spotlight: Hua Yan

Yan’s audacious use of color and brushwork has made him an inspiration for modern Chinese painters and a favorite amongst collectors.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Asian Art

Artist Spotlight: Anthony Liggins

Liggins is a leading figure in the American abstract expressionist resurgence, as well as a prominent African American artist with an international presence.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary