Enservio Select was recently asked to appraise an original oil painting by Ettore “Ted” DeGrazia (American, 1909-1982). Born in the mining town of Morenci, Ariz., Ted DeGrazia became one of Arizona's most prominent painters, illustrators and graphic artists, resulting in his studio gallery being listed on the National Register of Historic Places. He lived most of his life near Tucson, and worked in his studio, which he called “The Gallery of the Sun.” His signature work includes paintings and illustrations of 'angel-like' Southwestern children, many of Indian and Hispanic descent. His original paintings are iconic and sought after worldwide, ranging in price from $10,000-$20,000, depending on the size.

The painting by DeGrazia we were asked to value had been stolen from the premises and was not available to examine. However, a photograph was provided showing the canvas. It was titled Superstition Mountain and was said to have been inherited from family. The claimed value of the painting was $16,000.

When our specialists began researching the provenance for this painting as well as other paintings by DeGrazia depicting the Superstition Mountains, this exact painting was found on many websites celebrating the artist's work. Perhaps whomever the insured inherited it from was a buyer or collector of DeGrazia's work and the insured owned an important piece. Upon further research it was discovered that DeGrazia created only one rendition of the Superstition Mountain and the piece was part of the deceased artist's personal collection.