Artist Spotlight: Raimonds Staprans

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

This May 15th, Clars is excited to offer an outstanding oil on canvas painting by Latvian American artist Raimonds Staprans (b. 1926) in our Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction.


Upon moving to the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1950s, Staprans was quickly adopted by the art community in his chosen home and remains one of the foremost representatives of post-war California painting nationwide. Staprans is known for his large swaths of bright color, often playing with natural light and the perception of shape and texture, and his understated treatment of subject.


Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), Blue Boats, 1990, oil on canvas, 44" x 48".Sold: $187,500
Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), Blue Boats, 1990, oil on canvas, 44″ x 48″.
Sold: $187,500

Current trends in the market show that the highly saturated paintings that Staprans perfected in the late 1980s and 1990s are increasingly popular with collectors. Clars has been successful with several of these pieces in the last five years, including a 1987 oil on canvas titled, Still Life with Red Piano Stool, which sold well over its estimate at $147,600 in 2020, and Blue Boats, a 1990 painting that sold for $187,500 in 2022. Still life depictions of food are among the most recognizable of Staprans’ motifs. Staprans’ highest record price was realized in 2023 for a 1995 still life depicting oranges, done in a vibrantly warm palette that is strikingly similar to the piece up for auction at Clars this May.


Raimonds Staprans (American, b. 1926), Still Life with Red Piano Stool
Raimonds Staprans (American, b. 1926), Still Life with Red Piano Stool, 1987, oil on canvas, 64″ x 42″.
Sold: $147,600

The scene takes place in a space unmarked by identifying objects, furnished with a stool-like drop-leaf table. The table’s edges and sides are traced with prismatic colors in a manner that leaves the viewer questioning if the color is painted on the posts and boards, or if the unseen sun is playing tricks on our eyes. The top of the table appears to be doused with direct sunlight, bright white and glowing against the orange background. To the viewer’s right, the sides of the table’s legs are cast in a sunset glow the same tangerine shade as the background. Sitting atop the table is a peeled apple, its sides angled and smoothed with a paring knife. The fruit casts a half-moon shadow that points toward the open leaf of the table and is echoed on each stretcher below.


Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Mid Summer Drop-Leaf Table, 1993, oil on canvas, 48″ x 42″.Estimate: $60,000–$90,000
To be offered May 15th: Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Mid Summer Drop-Leaf Table, 1993, oil on canvas, 48″ x 42″.
Sold: $189,000

This work, titled The Mid Summer Drop-Leaf Table (estimated at $60,000–$90,000), showcases Staprans’ skill in using color to portray light, perspective, and a specific atmosphere. The tones chosen in this composition evoke the warmth of the summer months, and the slant of the dazzling sunshine on the table and fruit leave us wondering if this is the end of a late-evening garden party, where a table full of fresh fruit has dwindled to a lone apple and the leaves are dropped one by one. This outstanding example of Staprans’ later work is a celebration of color and light, an ode to atmosphere, and will be a significant addition to any collection.


Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Black Boat, 1963, oil on canvas, 22″ x 25″.
Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Black Boat, 1963, oil on canvas, 22″ x 25″.
Sold: $18,900

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Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

This May, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of work from masters like Raimonds Staprans, Wayne Thiebaud, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Joan Brown

For fans of the Bay Area Figurative Movement, we are highlighting two works on paper by celebrated multimedia artist Joan Brown this May.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Dia Al-Azzawi

Al-Azzawi studied art in Baghdad, taking inspiration from ancient Middle Eastern mythology as well as Islam and Arabic culture.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Modern + Contemporary Art Consignments Now Invited

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on artwork.

  • Consignments
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel

Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel beautifully captures the vibrant transformation of the leaves in the foothills of California.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Fine Art

Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

This February, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork from masters like Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Modern + Contemporary Art Consignments Now Invited

  • Consignments
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Consignments are now invited for our upcoming Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction on Thursday, May 15th.

Schedule an appointment today with one of our Fine Art Specialists. The deadline to consign is Friday, April 25th. To schedule your appointment, call (510) 428-0100 x 130 OR email [email protected].

Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Mid Summer Drop-Leaf Table, 1993, oil on canvas, 48″ x 42″.Estimate: $60,000–$90,000
To be offered May 15th: Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Mid Summer Drop-Leaf Table, 1993, oil on canvas, 48″ x 42″.
Estimate: $60,000–$90,000

Read More

Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

This May, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of work from masters like Raimonds Staprans, Wayne Thiebaud, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Joan Brown

For fans of the Bay Area Figurative Movement, we are highlighting two works on paper by celebrated multimedia artist Joan Brown this May.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Dia Al-Azzawi

Al-Azzawi studied art in Baghdad, taking inspiration from ancient Middle Eastern mythology as well as Islam and Arabic culture.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Raimonds Staprans

This May 15th, Clars is excited to offer an outstanding oil on canvas painting by artist Raimonds Staprans.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

This February, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork from masters like Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Andy Warhol

In our upcoming February 20th auction, an exciting work by Andy Warhol blends art with political activism.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Fine Art Consignments Now Invited!

  • Consignments
  • Fine Art

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on fine paintings, prints and sculpture.

Clars’ Fine Art Specialists will be in the following areas to offer private and confidential in home appointments: San Francisco | Carmel | Palo Alto | San Rafael | Healdsburg

To schedule your appointment, call (510) 428-0100 x 123 OR email [email protected]

Salvador Dalí (Spanish, 1904–1989), Portrait of Mrs. Luther Greene, 1942, oil on canvas, signed and dated right center, 24″ x 20″ (61 x 50.8 cm). Accompanied by preliminary study sketches of Mrs. Greene by Dalí from 1942 (charcoal/ink on paper). Provenance: Private collection (by descent); Mrs. Luther Greene (Ellen Chamberlain), New York. Catalog reference: Fundació Gala - Salvador Dalí: Catalogue Raisonné of Paintings by Salvador Dalí (cat. no. P 565). © Fundació Gala - Salvador Dalí
Salvador Dalí (Spanish, 1904–1989), Portrait of Mrs. Luther Greene, 1942, oil on canvas, signed and dated right center, 24″ x 20″ (61 x 50.8 cm). Accompanied by preliminary study sketches of Mrs. Greene by Dalí from 1942 (charcoal/ink on paper). Provenance: Private collection (by descent); Mrs. Luther Greene (Ellen Chamberlain), New York. Catalog reference: Fundació Gala – Salvador Dalí: Catalogue Raisonné of Paintings by Salvador Dalí (cat. no. P 565). © Fundació Gala – Salvador Dalí
Sold: $720,000

Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), <em>Plat à la Tête de Faune</em>, 1948, partially engraved white earthenware ceramic plate with colored engobe and glaze, 12.5″ x 15.5″ x 2″.
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Plat à la Tête de Faune, 1948, partially engraved white earthenware ceramic plate with colored engobe and glaze, 12.5″ x 15.5″ x 2″.
Sold: $75,600
Sam Francis (American, 1923–1994), Untitled, 1963, gouache on paper, 13.75″ x 12.5″.
Sam Francis (American, 1923–1994), Untitled, 1963, gouache on paper, 13.75″ x 12.5″.
Sold: $28,980

William Keith, Into the Yosemite Valley.
William Keith (American, 1838–1911), Into the Yosemite Valley, circa 1895–1906, oil on canvas, 36″ x 60″.
Sold: $113,400 – 5th highest auction record for the artist

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California & American Fine Art Highlights

The Fine Art department will present a strong selection of works by acclaimed California and American artists on June 20th.

  • Fine Art
  • Highlights

Modern + Contemporary Art Consignments Now Invited

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on artwork.

  • Consignments
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

March Fine Art Highlights

This March 21st at Clars Auctions, we will be featuring a curated assortment of artwork from a wide range of periods and locales.

  • Fine Art
  • Highlights

Artist Spotlight: Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel

Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel beautifully captures the vibrant transformation of the leaves in the foothills of California.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Fine Art

Artist Spotlight: Cady Wells

This January we are excited to offer unique works by Cady Wells, whose style was inspired by Southwestern desert landscapes and topography.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Fine Art

Fine Art Collectors Auction Highlights

This November, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork, ranging from American folk art to modern abstract masterpieces.

  • Auction
  • Fine Art

Important Fine Art Consignments Invited!

  • Consignments
  • Fine Art

Clars is now seeking Important Fine Art consignments for our upcoming Fall auction. Schedule your private and confidential appointment now to speak to one of our Fine Art Specialists to determine your item’s auction potential.

Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Visage Masque, 1947, ceramic plate, 12.5″ x 15″ (31.75 x 38.1 cm).
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Visage Masque, 1947, ceramic plate, 12.5″ x 15″ (31.75 x 38.1 cm).
Sold: $68,750

Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Wood-Owl (Hibou des bois), 1968, partially glazed white earthenware pitcher painted in colors, 11.5″h x 8.5″w x 6″d.
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Wood-Owl (Hibou des bois), 1968, partially glazed white earthenware pitcher painted in colors, 11.5″h x 8.5″w x 6″d.
Sold: $27,500
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Vase deux anses hautes, 1952, white earthenware ceramic vase (partially engraved), 15″h x 9.5″w x 6.75″d.
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Vase deux anses hautes, 1952, white earthenware ceramic vase (partially engraved), 15″h x 9.5″w x 6.75″d.
Sold: $35,215

Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), <em>Plat à la Tête de Faune</em>, 1948, partially engraved white earthenware ceramic plate with colored engobe and glaze, 12.5″ x 15.5″ x 2″.
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Plat à la Tête de Faune, 1948, partially engraved white earthenware ceramic plate with colored engobe and glaze, 12.5″ x 15.5″ x 2″.
Sold: $75,600

Read More

California & American Fine Art Highlights

The Fine Art department will present a strong selection of works by acclaimed California and American artists on June 20th.

  • Fine Art
  • Highlights

Modern + Contemporary Art Consignments Now Invited

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on artwork.

  • Consignments
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

March Fine Art Highlights

This March 21st at Clars Auctions, we will be featuring a curated assortment of artwork from a wide range of periods and locales.

  • Fine Art
  • Highlights

Artist Spotlight: Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel

Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel beautifully captures the vibrant transformation of the leaves in the foothills of California.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Fine Art

Artist Spotlight: Cady Wells

This January we are excited to offer unique works by Cady Wells, whose style was inspired by Southwestern desert landscapes and topography.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Fine Art

Fine Art Collectors Auction Highlights

This November, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork, ranging from American folk art to modern abstract masterpieces.

  • Auction
  • Fine Art

Consignments Invited | Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

  • Consignments
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

Clars is now seeking consignments for our upcoming Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on November 16th. Schedule a private appointment with one of our Jewelry specialists and learn what your property is worth.

Van Cleef & Arpels diamond jewelry
A diamond and white gold brooch and a pair of diamond ear clips, Van Cleef & Arpels.
Sold: $71,875
An 8.58 carat very light blue diamond ring.
An 8.58 carat very light blue diamond ring.
Sold: $468,500
A Rolex Daytona chronograph wristwatch, ref. 6263.Sold: $75,000
A Rolex Daytona chronograph wristwatch, ref. 6263.
Sold: $75,000

The market for signed and antique jewelry, as well as precious colored gemstones and timepieces is very strong. Schedule your private and confidential appointment now to speak to one of our Specialists to determine your jewelry’s auction potential.

Read More

Modern + Contemporary Art Consignments Now Invited

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on artwork.

  • Consignments
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Fine Art Consignments Now Invited!

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on fine artwork.

  • Consignments
  • Fine Art

Important Fine Art Consignments Invited!

Clars is now seeking Important Fine Art consignments for our upcoming Fall auction.

  • Consignments
  • Fine Art

Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Highlights

Clars is excited to present the Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on Thursday, March 21st, commencing at 9:30 AM PDT.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Valuation Day | February 13th

Clars will be hosting a Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Valuation Day on February 13th, 10AM–1PM. This event is by appointment only.

  • Event
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Highlights

Clars is thrilled to host their Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on Thursday, November 16th, beginning at 9:30 AM PST.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces