Preliminary identification

Signed and Numbered Architectural Watercolor Print of the Hampshire House, Boston

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a limited-edition, hand-signed architectural print depicting the historic Hampshire House on Beacon Street in Boston, famously known as the exterior location for the television show 'Cheers'. The print captures the classic red brick, arched windows, and distinctive awnings of this 1910 Georgian Revival mansion with delicate watercolor washes.

Story

Built in 1910 for Boston socialites, this grand mansion on Beacon Street later became a world-famous landmark. Its exterior was chosen to represent the iconic bar in the TV show 'Cheers', forever blending high society with pop culture.

Maker / Origin

While the signature is currently unidentified, the artist displays a strong mastery of architectural illustration, a specialized field that blends technical drafting precision with the fluid, atmospheric qualities of watercolor painting.

Condition & Value

The print appears to be in good condition, housed under glass in a custom double-mat and a gilt-trimmed wooden frame. There is no obvious fading, water damage, or foxing visible on the paper, though it has not been examined outside of the frame. The frame shows minor wear consistent with age.

Full Research

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

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.