Preliminary identification

Lee N. Smith III Artist's Proof Lithograph, 'Dance for the Hunt'

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A captivating artist's proof lithograph titled 'Dance for the Hunt' by renowned Texas artist Lee N. Smith III. The work features his signature narrative style, depicting figures in a snowy, wooded landscape rendered with a dense, pointillist-like texture and a vibrant, dreamlike color palette.

Story

In the 1980s, Texas artist Lee N. Smith III began translating his vivid childhood memories of the American South into haunting, cinematic landscapes. This print captures a mysterious ritual in a frozen forest, blending folklore with personal mythology.

Maker / Origin

Lee N. Smith III is a highly regarded Dallas-born artist whose paintings and prints are celebrated for their narrative depth and psychological tension. His work has been exhibited in major institutions, including the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Dallas Museum of Art, making him a key figure in contemporary Texas art.

Condition & Value

The lithograph appears to be in excellent condition, housed under glass in a professional frame. The paper shows no obvious signs of foxing, waving, or water damage, and the pencil signatures and numbering are crisp and unfaded. Excellent preservation of the paper and frame preserves maximum market value.

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

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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.