36 inch tall bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku, swimmer, surfer, and Hawaiian ambassador of Aloha. Won five gold medals in the Olympics between 1912 and 1932
The original artist of the statue was R. Tait McKenzie, one of the great pioneers in physical education and one of the greatest sculptors of athletes. In 1912 he persuaded Duke Kahanamoku to sit for him after seeing him swimming at the University of Pennsylvania's Weightman Hall, and indoor pool next to his office. Many of McKenzie's works are featured on the University of Pennsylvania campus, and others in Scotland and Stockholm. McKenzie died while making the sculpture of the Duke. His protege, Joseph Brown, finished the sculpture. Joseph Brown was a schuptor-in-residence at Princeton University and a long time Tait Mckenzie protege. His work has been commissioned by prominent Universities, Including Yale, Princeton, Harvard, and US Naval Academy. The statue, was purchased and permanently moved to Honolulu Hawaii, and displayed at the Opening of the International Surf Museum, the First Day of Issue of the Duke Kahanamoku Stamp Unveiling (2002) and currently on display at the Outrigger Canoe Club, which is the main supporter of the Duke Kahanamoku Foundation. The sculpture is in perfect condition, however has some patina on it which some people feel indicates its authenticity. Statue is 36 inches tall.
Statue is 36 inches tall, with wooden base
Dealer or Gallery
Yes
Hi David,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
This sculpture appeals to several audiences: collectors of American sculpture will appreciate the work of both McKenzie and Brown, while sports fans, and more specifically surfing aficionados, would want this as a remembrance of Duke Kahanamoku's legacy.
McKenzie's figures range in price at auction, from $50,000 for full-size sculptures to $400 for small - less than 6 inch) bronze. Brown's range for single figure pieces are a bit less: beginning around $150 and going up to $15,000.
As you can imagine, collaborative works by Robert Tait McKenzie and Joseph Brown are comparatively scarce. I would expect this to sell well at auction with an estimate of $20,000-30,000; I would not be surprised if it sold for more, particularly if the auction house had clients of sporting memorabilia.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
Robert Tait McKenzie (American, 1867-1938), with Joseph Brown (American, 1909-1985)
"Duke Kahanamoku, 'Ambassador of Aloha'"
Sculpted in 1938, cast in bronze in 1972
36 inches tall
CONDITION: This sculpture appears to be in good condition; it retains its original pleasing patina.
PROVENANCE: Displayed at the Opening of the International Surf Museum, the First Day of Issue of the Duke Kahanamoku Stamp Unveiling (2002) and currently on display at the Outrigger Canoe Club
$20,000-30,000*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia
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Delia, my insurance company has received your appraisal. They are asking for the "background" on Delia and your expertise in appraising such items as this statue. Please send my your background and expertise in appraisals and also any background in Art from University or understanding of this specific type of art. More the better. Thank you!