Potter & Potter Auctions
Live Auction

Art & Design

Thu, May 28, 2026 11:00AM EDT
  2026-05-28 11:00:00 2026-05-28 11:00:00 America/New_York Potter & Potter Auctions Potter & Potter Auctions : Art & Design https://auction.potterauctions.com/auctions/potter-potter/art-design-22614
This is an auction replete with standouts. Works by Magritte, Tamayo, Paschke, Wirsum and multiple mixed media collages and prints from the celebrated Tony Fitzpatrick will cross the block. A significant work by Bill Traylor leads the Outsider Art session, alongside major works by Finster, Yoakum, Dial, Sparrow, and Dawson. Folk art includes a carved grotto Jesus and Devil train set sculpture from Wisconsin, and three oversize leaves by Ivan Albright lead the fine art session. Design collectors can settle in to a Bouloum Chair by Oliver Mourge for Airbourne International.
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Lot 7

WATERS, Percy (American, 1888-1952). Blueprint Tattoo Flash with Female Figures and Faces. Circa 1920s.

Estimate: $1,000 - $2,000
Starting Bid
$500

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$30 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $200
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$50,000 $5,000
$100,000 $10,000

WATERS, Percy (American, 1888-1952). Blueprint Tattoo Flash with Female Figures and Faces. Circa 1920s. Signed. Inscribed: B-1-8. 24 x 18".

 

Percy Waters was a key figure in modern tattooing. In 1929, he invented the adjustable two-coil electromagnetic tattoo machine, still in use today. Waters offered "Tattoo Starter Packs," which influenced early tattoo culture in the U.S., and ran a successful supply business. He was known for his traditional tattoos, particularly those featuring sailing ships and animals, and gained fame for his innovative bodysuits for circus performers. 

Condition

Marked with ink in areas. Margins with creasing and tearing. Minor surface dirt and staining. Pinholes to corners.

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