estateRUTH.

Identification

Original Pastel Dog Portrait "Max" by Susan Hand, 1998

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

The artwork is clearly signed 'Susan Hand' and dated '98, which is visible in the provided images. The visual evidence strongly supports the seller's description of an original pastel pet portrait.

Story

This is an original pastel created in 1998 by Susan Hand. The presence of a custom-engraved nameplate indicates it was originally a commissioned, cherished family piece. Based on current market evidence, Susan Hand operates as an independent or regional artist without a major listed auction presence. The secondary market for late-20th-century pet portraits is driven primarily by decorative appeal rather than artist listed value, unless the artist has a strong auction record.

Maker / Origin

Susan Hand

Condition & Value

Based on the provided description, the artwork appears to be professionally matted and framed, which is crucial for protecting the delicate pastel surface from smudging. Pending confirmation of the exact dimensions and a verso inspection, the visible condition presents well as a ready-to-hang decorative piece.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

The secondary market for late-20th-century pet portraits is driven primarily by decorative appeal rather than artist listed value, unless the artist has a strong auction record. Portraits of specific, named mixed-breed pets appeal to buyers looking for charming, eclectic wall art rather than breed-specific collectors. Consequently, prices are generally capped by the cost of commissioning a new, custom portrait of a buyer's own pet.

Value Drivers

▲ Original pastel medium with visible artist signature and 1998 date confirms authenticity as a unique work.

▲ Professional matting and framing enhance the piece's immediate decorative readiness.

▲ Strong expressive quality typical of well-executed custom pet commissions.

Concerns

▼ Unverified dimensions — a very small size (e. g., under 8x10 inches) would push value toward the lower end of the range.

▼ Subject specificity — portraits of specific, named mixed-breed pets have a narrower secondary market than generic or purebred subjects.

▼ Unlisted artist status limits the piece to decorative rather than fine-art collector value.

Best Venue

List on a broad online marketplace like eBay or Etsy, or offer it through a local consignment shop specializing in decorative interiors. Market the piece by highlighting its original medium, professional framing, and the charming, expressive quality of the dog, appealing to eclectic art buyers and interior decorators.

Upside Potential

If verso evidence (such as gallery labels or exhibition tags) reveals Susan Hand to be a recognized regional artist with a documented exhibition history, the value could push toward the $250-$350 range seen in higher-end vintage regional sales.

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Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 1 comp

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • Maxsold
    Pastel Dog Portrait in Antique Gilt Carved Frame
    Link could not be verified.
    $23