Preliminary identification

Margaret Keane 'Big Eyes' Vintage Lithograph, c. 1960s

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic vintage lithograph featuring the iconic 'Big Eyes' style, depicting two melancholic children and a small white dog in a dark alleyway.

Story

The 1960s art world was rocked by the 'Big Eyes' phenomenon, a style that was sold by the millions while hiding one of the greatest scandals in art history.

Maker / Origin

Margaret Keane (1927–2022) was the true hand behind the 'Big Eyes' movement, though her husband Walter famously stole the credit for over a decade.

Condition & Value

The print shows some minor surface wear and possible slight fading consistent with age. The original frame and linen liner appear intact but show typical scuffing on the wood. Original vintage framing generally adds to the appeal for mid-century enthusiasts.

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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

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD