Preliminary identification

Framed Print of St. Augustine Lighthouse by John Nelson, 2001

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A detailed realist rendering of Florida's iconic St. Augustine Lighthouse, featuring its famous black-and-white spiral daymark.

Story

The St. Augustine Lighthouse was completed in 1874 to replace a tower that was literally falling into the ocean due to shoreline erosion. Its distinctive 'candy cane' spiral wasn't just for aesthetics; it functioned as a unique visual fingerprint called a…

Maker / Origin

John Nelson is a recognized regional artist known for his meticulous architectural and nature illustrations, particularly those focused on Florida's historical landmarks.

Condition & Value

The print appears to be in excellent condition with no visible signs of foxing, fading, or moisture damage. The frame is intact with only minor surface scuffing consistent with age. The tight seal of the framing has likely protected the paper from the humid Florida environment. Excellent condition for a 20-year-old print.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

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

Build on this identification

Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.

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