Lithographs of Thomas Hart Benton: The Elman Collection
February 2026
Circle Auction is proud to offer an exceptional collection of lithographs by artist Thomas Hart Benton, assembled by the late Dr. Arthur Elman, a Kansas City-based oncologist and former French consul to the Midwest. Arthur was a man of myriad interests, passions, and talents, so much so that Kansas City Magazine once deemed him the most interesting man in Kansas City. In 2014, Arthur and Carolyn Elman teamed with designer Kelee Katillac to rescue the historic Henry Blosser House in Malta Bend, Missouri, which had been declared the most endangered home in the state by Governor Jay Nixon. Through years of careful preservation, renovation, and care, the 1870s homestead was restored to its former glory, curated into a landmark of thoughtful interior design and a refuge for historical objects and fine art. Among the locally-minded art collection were dozens of lithographs by Missouri’s favorite son Thomas Hart Benton. In 2025, the Henry Blosser House was offered for sale, leaving this extensive collection of Benton imagery to find new quarters. We invite art enthusiasts everywhere to join us for this uncommon opportunity to add these outstanding American prints to your collection.
Free Delivery
Free home delivery is available to winning bidders in the KC area.
Within 20 miles and for items under 200lb.
First Time Bidders
If you have never bid in one of our auction before, welcome! We’ve put a brief Intro Guide to walk you through the process and answer any of your questions.
Questions?
If you are interested in consigning in the auction or have any questions, please reach out to us at:
913-403-0032
Modern + Contemporary: Art & Design
Circle Auction is now accepting consignments for Modern + Contemporary: Art & Design. We are seeking notable Midwest and national artists, plus modern furniture and design by makers like Eames, Knoll, Wegner, Chihuly, Aalto, Ken Ferguson, and Val Bertoia. Have something that fits? We’d love to review it.
Kansas City Collections
Circle Auction is accepting consignments for our upcoming 2026 Kansas City Collections. This signature sale features fine art and regionalist works, with a focus on leading Midwest artists like Benton, Sandzén, Curry, Grant Wood, and Bingham. We are also seeking rare coins, bullion, sterling, bronzes, fine jewelry, rare books, antiques, and other standout pieces. Have something exceptional? We’d love to review it.
The Lithographs of Thomas Hart Benton: The Decker Collection
A rare single-owner group of Thomas Hart Benton lithographs, collected by Dr. Clarence R. Decker (UKC president, 1938–1953). Many are personally inscribed to Clarence and Mary Decker, reflecting their documented personal connection with Benton in Kansas City. Highlights include Prayer Meeting, commissioned by Decker in 1949 and recorded in Creekmore Fath’s catalogue raisonné. Fresh to market from long-term family ownership.