Templars

Artist: Irwin D. Hoffman (Attributed)
Category: Paintings
Medium: Oil on Canvas (framed in wood)
Size: 38 1/2" Wide X 26" High
Condition: Fair (visible aging, wear on frame)
Distinguishing Marks:

• Signature: "Irwin D. Hoffman" visible on the front
• Label: Associated American Artists (AAA) on the back

Background & Analysis

About the Artist – Irwin D. Hoffman (1901–1989)

Irwin Hoffman was a well-known American realist painter and printmaker, recognized for portraits, urban scenes, and rural American life. His works often reflected social realism, focusing on working-class subjects rather than medieval or Crusader themes.

Your concern is valid: Hoffman was not known for painting medieval or religious subjects, and his connection to this piece is unusual. While it bears his signature and an AAA label, further authentication is needed to determine if it is:

1. An authentic Hoffman piece in an uncommon subject matter.
2. A misattributed or unsigned work that was later labeled with his name.
3. A AAA reproduction or commission-based artwork.

About Associated American Artists (AAA)

AAA was founded in 1934 to provide affordable fine art prints to American households, primarily selling lithographs, etchings, and engravings. They rarely sold original paintings, which raises doubts about whether this piece was originally distributed through AAA. However, AAA occasionally collaborated with living artists, so it's possible this was a special commission.

Valuation & Market Considerations

Factors Affecting Value

• Authenticity: If proven to be an original Hoffman, it could hold significant value.
• Subject Matter: While Hoffman is valued for realism, this Crusader theme does not align with his known works.
• Condition: The fair condition affects resale value.
• AAA Label: If this is an officially licensed AAA work, it could have niche collector appeal.

Estimated Value Range

• If an authentic, verified Hoffman original: $2,000 - $5,000, depending on market interest.
• If a misattributed or later reproduction: $200 - $800, as it lacks a direct connection to Hoffman's recognized body of work.
• If an AAA-commissioned or printed piece: $300 - $1,500, depending on rarity and desirability.

Recommendations

1. Professional Authentication
   • Contact an art expert, auction house, or gallery specializing in Hoffman’s works.
   • Verify if the signature is genuine or a later addition.
   • Compare it with Hoffman's known painting style and brushwork.
2. Research AAA's Role
   • Contact art historians or specialists in Associated American Artists to confirm whether they ever sold paintings.
   • Review any serial numbers, labels, or documentation on the back.
3. Conservation & Preservation
   • If it is valuable, consider cleaning and frame restoration to maintain its market worth.

Here is a list of art galleries and platforms where you can find works by Irwin D. Hoffman: They may be a good resource for authenticating your piece or possibly connect you with someone who can.

1. Childs Gallery
   • Description: Offers a selection of Hoffman's paintings, watercolors, and etchings, including works like "Drilling in Ore" and "Pulling the Ore."
   • Link: Irwin D. Hoffman at Childs Gallery
2. The Old Print Shop
   • Description: Features various works by Hoffman, such as "Market Place" and "The Rabbi," highlighting his printmaking skills.
   • Link: Irwin D. Hoffman at The Old Print Shop
3. Kiechel Fine Art
   • Description: Provides insights into Hoffman's life and showcases his artworks, reflecting his travels and experiences.
   • Link: Irwin D. Hoffman at Kiechel Fine Art
4. MutualArt
   • Description: Offers information on Hoffman's artworks available at auctions, including past auction results and upcoming sales.
   • Link: Irwin Hoffman on MutualArt