For the 62nd edition of the Philadelphia Show—one of the nation’s leading art and design fairs rooted in American art—collectors and connoisseurs alike will find over 40 U.S. exhibitors presenting fine art, collectible design, antiques, Americana, folk art, ceramics, decorative arts and much more. As in years past, the show is hosted at the Philadelphia Museum of Art on the East Terrace.
Visitors explore the Dolan Maxwell booth at The Philadelphia Show. Huntley Platt, manager of the Philadelphia Show, adds that there is exciting programming both in advance of and during the run of the show. “There is a panel discussion with Antiques Roadshow senior producer, Sam Farrell, and Philadelphia Show dealers who are specialists on the show sharing their experiences,” says Platt. “[In addition], there’s various panel discussions and a book signing and lecture with Michael Diaz-Griffith author of The New Antiquarians who will discuss his new book on young collectors. Programming prior to the show, also includes a virtual discussion with a PMA curator on the upcoming Mary Cassatt exhibit opening at the museum on May 18.”
New to this year’s show, Platt notes that there is a treasure hunt that will focus on women artists and sitters. “The hunt will extend from the show into the American Galleries of PMA,” she explains. “Additionally, in the galleries, works from the museum collection that have been purchased at the Philadelphia Show over the years will be highlighted with special labels.”
Daniel Ridgway Knight (1839-1924), Coming Through the Rye, circa 1900. Oil on canvas, 32½ x 26 in., signed and inscribed: Paris. Courtesy of Rehs Galleries.
The 2024 show also welcomes six new exhibitors to its repertoire of longstanding and returning galleries, all of which showcase works ranging from the 16th to 21st centuries, with some specializing in underrepresented artists, and a sprinkling of international art as well.
Founder of Rehs Galleries, Howard Rehs, shares that “for decades, we’ve witnessed the continuous evolution of the Philadelphia Show and we’re always impressed at the consistently high caliber of artworks showcased by dealers. This year we were invited to participate, and our enthusiastic response was an immediate, yes!”
Kenneth Nunamaker (1890-1957), House in Center Bridge. Oil on canvas, 22 x 24 in., signed lower left: K. Nunamaker. Courtesy of Avery Galleries.
Rehs continues, “Our booth will showcase a captivating array of 20 to 30 works of art spanning the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, focusing on American and European artists. One standout piece will be Daniel Ridgway Knight’s Coming Through the Rye, a particularly intriguing and unique work by the artist. In his final three decades, Knight spent most of his time in Rolleboise, France, creating many renowned works portraying women in private gardens. However, Coming Through the Rye deviates from this theme. The painting dates from circa 1900, during the height of his artistic career, and captures his model Madeleine on a path through the town, offering a distinct perspective. The painting had been in a private family collection for decades, is in outstanding condition and beautifully framed. While it looks great in the photos, it is even better in person!”
Mary Cassatt (1844-1926), Under the Horse-Chestnut Tree, 1896-97. Drypoint and aquatint on paper, 195/8 x 153/8 in. Courtesy of Somerville Manning.
For returning gallery, Somerville Manning, this year will feature a total of around 40 works, most of which tie into the unique history of the arts in the Philadelphia area. “Works by N.C. Wyeth, Andrew Wyeth and Jamie Wyeth will be the anchor of our collection,” says gallery director Rebecca Moore. “They will be hung alongside esteemed contemporary artists like Bo Bartlett, Sarah McRae Morton and Peter Sculthorpe. In continuing our exploration of art history in Philadelphia, we hope to showcase a collection of works on paper by Mary Cassatt (1844-1926), to help celebrate the upcoming Mary Cassatt exhibition at PMA.”
Ultimately, Platt hopes that attendees at the show, running from April 25 to 28, will feel comfortable exploring the wide breadth of art that dealers have for sale. “The range of objects, medium and price points that the dealers bring to the show is vast. So, there’s something for everyone and it’s all top quality.”
Visit the show website for ticket prices, and for information surrounding the Preview Party on April 25.
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