During the 1950s and 60s, the Bassetts began to acquire the fine art prints from notable 20th century artists reflected in our collection today. During this era, many of the pioneers of modern art such as Georges Braque, Joan Miró, Pierre Bonnard, and Pablo Picasso created limited edition lithographs of their work, often signed, numbered and dated. This production of prints contributed to the new burgeoning collector economy, simultaneously allowing further access to their work at accessible prices. 

At this time, antique shops, auction houses and art fairs multiplied across Los Angeles, encouraging the middle class to take part in the activity of collecting. For the first time, the position of the collector was not merely relegated to the elite. Instead, everyday Americans could become connoisseurs in their own right, learning about the world through objects, while simultaneously honing in on their own tastes and aesthetic leanings. Coinciding with the emergence of lifestyle magazines such as House Beautiful, it became popular to reflect one's own interests, style, and culture through the design of your home and the acquisition of cherished objects.

We would like to extend our gratitude to the Bassett family, and especially their granddaughter Heather Lake, for bringing this collection our way.