Leroy Neiman Lady Liberty Tops Keeneland Sporting Art Auction

Keeneland‘s Sporting Art Auction Achieves $2.7 Million in Sales

The Sporting Art Auction, a partnership between Cross Gate Gallery of Lexington and Keeneland, reached $2.7 million in total sales during its 13th edition on November 13.

LeRoy Neiman’s “Lady Liberty,” a signed oil on board, topped the auction at $229,125.

The event, held at the Keeneland Sales Pavilion, attracted collectors from seven countries participating both in-person and remotely. The auction achieved a 90% sell-through rate from its catalog of 206 pieces spanning sporting art, American paintings, and sculpture.

“We are thrilled with the result of this year’s Sporting Art Auction,” said Catherine Ladd Kenneally of Cross Gate Gallery. “The international participation through the online platforms was incredible and really a first for us. As the Sporting Art Auction continues to flourish, we are grateful for our partnership with Keeneland and the community’s continued support.”

Polish-American artist Andre Pater’s works secured the second and third highest prices of the auction. His oil-on-canvas “Breeders’ Cup 1999” realized $141,000, while “Watermelon Jockey,” a vibrant pastel, brought $117,500.

Keeneland President and CEO Shannon Arvin noted the event’s significance as a capstone to the sales season.

“The vibrant energy at this year’s Sporting Art Auction made for a wonderful event,” said Arvin. “Seeing our Sales Pavilion filled with our community, collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate sporting art is a special way to close our 2025 sales season. We appreciate all of the work by the Ladds and Cross Gate Gallery to make this event happen, and we’re delighted to watch its reach and participation grow each year.”