In this feature, we hear from Jon Felz, expert appraiser and owner of RZM Fine Arts & Antiques, as he helps readers uncover the stories and value behind treasured family heirlooms and unexpected discoveries. Have an item you've always wondered about? Reach out to Jon for a chance to have it featured in a future Ask the Appraiser column.
Note to Appraiser
This oil painting has been in my family for many years and originally belonged to my grandfather. Throughout the years, we've always been told it may be quite valuable, but we've never known much about its history.
The painting measures approximately 28 by 28 inches, and one detail has always made identifying it difficult: it isn't signed by the artist.
I've seen your column help identify unsigned works of art before, so I'm hoping you can determine the artist, confirm its authenticity and provide an estimate of its current value.
Please let me know if additional photographs or an in-person examination would be helpful.
Thank you for your time and expertise.
Appraisal Response
If this beautiful unsigned painting could speak, it might ask, "Who needs a signature when you look this good?"
While the artist chose not to sign this exceptional work, the quality of the painting immediately stood out. As I've often said, great art doesn't always need a signature to reveal its importance.
Fortunately, this mystery didn't take long to solve.
The moment I examined your photographs, I recognized the artist. I've actually owned one of his Rockport paintings in the past, making the identification even more familiar.
Your painting was created by Anthony Thieme (1888-1954), the celebrated Dutch American artist best known for his vibrant coastal scenes of Rockport, Massachusetts.
After immigrating to the United States in 1917, Thieme became a prominent figure in American art. He eventually settled in Rockport, where he founded the Thieme School of Art at Cape Ann and taught aspiring artists through the 1940s.
His work is admired for its bold color palette, expressive brushwork and masterful use of light. Your painting beautifully captures many of the characteristics collectors seek, including Rockport's bustling harbor, weathered fishing shacks and rugged coastline. Boats gently drift across the water while sunlight reflects across the sea, creating movement and atmosphere throughout the composition.
Even more importantly, your painting depicts one of Thieme's most desirable and collectible subject matters.
His style blends the loose brushwork and luminous color of European Impressionism with an unmistakably American appreciation for everyday coastal life. Like many artists of his era, Thieme frequently painted en plein air, allowing him to capture the changing light and natural beauty that made Rockport one of New England's most beloved artistic communities.
Today, Anthony Thieme's paintings remain highly sought after by collectors and are represented in museums and distinguished private collections across the country. His reputation as a master of color, light and maritime landscapes continues to grow.
The painting you've inherited is an excellent example of his work and carries a current market value of approximately $20,000.
More importantly, you've inherited a wonderful family heirloom with both artistic and historical significance. Continue to care for it well, and it should remain a treasured piece for generations while continuing to appreciate in value.
Jon Felz - Senior Appraiser
RZM Fine Arts & Antiques, Inc.
Address: 132 Dexter Avenue, Pearl River, NY
Phone: 845-735-1313
Email: rzmantique@aol.com