EXCLUSIVE: Gene Hackman’s Massive Art Collection Sells for Nearly $2 Million at Auction Months After Reclusive Actor Was Found Dead With Items Inside Filthy Mansion
Gene Hackman’s Massive Art Collection Fetches Nearly $2 Million at Auction
The legendary actor Gene Hackman, who passed away earlier this year at the age of 95, left behind more than just a celebrated film legacy. His vast and carefully curated art collection recently went under the hammer, attracting intense interest from collectors and art enthusiasts alike. The auction, which took place just months after Hackman was found deceased in his notoriously cluttered and neglected mansion, saw his prized artworks fetch close to $2 million in total.
Hackman was not only a celebrated actor but also a passionate art collector and a prolific artist himself. His home, long rumored to be in disarray, concealed a treasure trove of paintings, sculptures, and personal memorabilia that had remained hidden from public view for decades. Following his death, his family organized a series of auctions to distribute his most valuable possessions, both online and in-person, giving fans and collectors a rare glimpse into the private life of the reclusive star.
Highlights from the Auction: Priceless Paintings and Sculptures
The live auction, held in New York and managed by the prestigious Bonhams auction house, featured 13 paintings and sculptures from Hackman’s private collection. Remarkably, every piece offered was sold, underscoring the high demand for the actor’s artistic treasures. According to Bonhams’ press manager Maxine Osa, the auction was a “white-glove” event, with a total sale amount reaching $1.64 million.
The standout piece was “Figure on the Jetty” by American modernist Milton Avery, which sold for an impressive $508,500. This evocative painting, depicting a solitary figure gazing out to sea, is believed to have been inspired by Avery’s summers spent in Provincetown, Massachusetts during the late 1950s. Hackman acquired this masterpiece in 1997 and treasured it until his passing.
Other notable sales included two works by Richard Diebenkorn: “Green,” which fetched $419,600, and “High Green, Version II,” which sold for $152,900—more than double its initial estimate. Additionally, Fritz Scholder’s “Dancer” dramatically exceeded expectations, selling for over five times its estimated value at $152,900.
More Than Just Art: Hackman’s Personal Memorabilia and Artistic Pursuits
Alongside the high-profile live auction, Hackman’s family also held online sales featuring a wide array of personal items. These included cherished Golden Globe Awards for films such as *Unforgiven* and *The Royal Tenenbaums*, as well as his Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award. Collectors were also able to bid on movie memorabilia spanning Hackman’s extensive career, including photographs, scripts, call sheets, and other rare artifacts.
Anna Hicks, Head of US Private & Iconic Collections at Bonhams, revealed that Hackman was a “prolific artist” who took his painting seriously, especially after retiring from acting. The online auctions featured many of his own artworks, with portraits and other pieces attracting significant attention. Some of Hackman’s paintings sold for as much as $28,160, demonstrating the actor’s talent extended well beyond the silver screen.
Among the personal items, a bronze bust of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, titled simply “Betsy,” sold for $7,680. His Best Actor Golden Globes commanded high prices, with two awards selling for $43,520 and $51,200 respectively. The Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award also drew strong bids, ultimately selling for $33,280.
Upcoming Auction and Remaining Treasures
The family is continuing to auction off Hackman’s belongings, with one final online auction scheduled to start soon. This upcoming sale will include more personal effects such as additional scripts, photographs, two of Hackman’s pianos, a pinball machine, and two full-size video game cabinets. These items provide a unique window into the private life and hobbies of the enigmatic actor.
Collectors and fans alike are encouraged to keep an eye on the remaining auction, as it offers a rare chance to own a piece of Hollywood history and the personal legacy of one of cinema’s most respected figures.
Conclusion
Gene Hackman’s massive art collection and personal memorabilia have captivated collectors worldwide, selling for nearly $2 million and revealing the hidden treasures of a reclusive star’s life. From priceless paintings by renowned modernists to Hackman’s own artistic creations and cherished awards, the auction provides a fascinating glimpse into the actor’s multifaceted passions. Don’t miss the chance to explore the remaining items in the upcoming auction—whether you’re an art lover, movie buff, or collector, these pieces offer a unique connection to Gene Hackman’s extraordinary legacy. Stay tuned and participate in the final auction to own a remarkable piece of history.
