Successful Resolution of Federal Court Dispute Over Sam Francis Painting

Hughes Hubbard represented Anne White on a pro bono basis in resolving a commercial dispute brought by Hollis Taggart Galleries concerning White’s sale of an oil painting by noted abstract expressionist artist Sam Francis.

In January, Hollis Taggart filed the action in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, alleging that White falsely represented that she was the sole legal owner of, and had the right to convey, the painting. The gallery further alleged that White jointly owned the work with her husband, who had not consented to the sale. White maintained that she disclosed to the gallery that she was selling only her half-interest in the work. She also maintained that the gallery paid less than one-half of the painting’s appraised value.

In March, Judge Jed S. Rakoff directed the clerk of court to seek pro bono counsel for White for the limited purposes of answering the complaint, conducting discovery and engaging in settlement discussions.

Hughes Hubbard stepped in, working with the parties over several months to negotiate a confidential settlement. The gallery ultimately dismissed its lawsuit against White with prejudice.

Dan Weiner led the Hughes Hubbard team, which included Mana Ameri.