Lost Norman Rockwell White House Sketches Hit Auction Block This Friday

A piece of American history goes under the hammer. These Rockwell sketches, tied to FDR’s presidency, could fetch millions—but who will claim them?

, and Administrator

2025 November 14 . 5:22 AM

1 min read

In this image we can see painting of a house, fence, road, vehicles, door, window, pole, and other... — In this image we can see painting of a house, fence, road, vehicles, door, window, pole, and other objects.

Lost Norman Rockwell White House Sketches Hit Auction Block This Friday

Four Norman Rockwell sketches, once displayed in the White House, are set to be auctioned this Friday. The Dallas-based auction house is expecting fierce competition for the pieces, titled 'So You Want to See the President!', which depict diverse individuals waiting to meet President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The White House Historical Association aims to reclaim these sketches to represent American history and culture in the White House collection.

The sketches, gifted to Stephen Early, Roosevelt's press secretary, by Rockwell, have a rich history. They were on display in the West Wing for over four decades before being returned to the family in 2022. A federal appeals court recently settled a family dispute, upholding a lower-court ruling in favor of the grandson who inherited the sketches. The opening bid is $2.5 million, with auction house clients lining up to compete for them. The association has previously paid up to $1.5 million for a painting, but the amount they are willing to spend on the Rockwell sketches is unclear.

The Rockwell sketches, which offer a unique glimpse into the Oval Office, are expected to draw significant interest from collectors and institutions alike. The White House Historical Association, among the bidders, hopes to secure these pieces to preserve and showcase American history and culture within the White House.