Engraving by Albrecht Durer, Saint Jerome in His Study, circa 1514
Bartsch 60,illustrated on page 63 of the catalog
The print measures 7.5 inches x 9.5 inches in a frame 18 inches by 20.5 inches

Davids notes: This appears to be an early genuine Durer engraving from the 16th century. From the Estate of Daniel W Collins, who passed away in Moorestown NJ recently. Collins was born into real estate wealth, and attended Harvard University.

When I asked the lawyer representing the Estate of Daniel Collins what he did for a living, the response was "he gave away money"(philanthropist).Collins led a private life, never had to have a full time job, and collected rare prints and etchings as a passion. When we cleared out the house he lived in on Main street in Moorestown, it was full of etchings, engravings and prints as well as rare objects of all kinds.

In our last auction Sept 26, a rare Chinese vase that was in front of the Collins fireplace sold for 28,000 to everyone's surprise. Collins obviously liked Durer. The present lot, "St Jerome in His Study" is a well known work by Durer, reproduced again and again over the centuries. In most cases, the work is not from the 16th century, but this time it appears to be. Collins had a lengthy insurance appraisal policy for his art, furniture, paintings and objects, and the top item listed in his policy is the Durer etching, for 40,000.00 with the notes: "Trimmed between the platemark and the borderline.9 and 5/8ths inches by 7 and 3/8ths inches." Numerous important prints by Rembrandt, Degas and others are in the current Oct 24th sale, all from the Estate of Daniel Collins. Please see other lots in this Oct 24th sale for other prints and engravings from this rare and fine collection. The insurance document will be uploaded over the weekend for viewing along with other photos of this lot. Remember, this is a man born into wealth, highly educated, who could buy anything he wanted for himself, and this engraving was his most cherished possession, valued highest amongst his hundreds of belongings.

Overall condition appears to be good, richly inked. The print is affixed to the mat board in several places (See photos). See notes above about trimming. This lot is available for viewing every day up until and including the day of the auction at 110 West 25th street, NYC. Call the auction house at 646 590 2788 for hours and details.