Art World Mourns Loss of Expert Howard Rehs at 66

The art community is in mourning following the passing of Howard Rehs, a leading authority on the work of French post-impressionist artist Edouard Cortès, who died on March 14, 2024, after a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). He was 66 years old. Rehs was recognized not only for his expertise in 19th and 20th-century European and American paintings but also for his dedication to ensuring that clients acquired artworks of the highest quality and provenance.

Rehs was a prominent figure in the art world, known for his meticulous research and keen eye. He often explored works that had not been seen for decades. In December 2018, for instance, he acquired and swiftly sold La Réception au Château, a stunning oil painting by Adrien Moreau that had been hidden from public view for 130 years. Rehs described the experience as a dream for any art dealer, emphasizing the joy of discovering exceptional pieces in pristine condition.

In April 2019, Rehs made headlines again with the discovery of Place de la République en Soir, a rare painting by Cortès that had not been on the market for 114 years. “The seller informed me that to their knowledge, the painting had never been on the market and was in perfect condition,” he stated. This find showcased Rehs’s exceptional ability to identify significant works that enrich the art historical narrative.

Rehs’s impact on the industry extended beyond mere transactions. He contributed to the study of other notable artists, including Antoine Blanchard, Julien Dupré, and Daniel Ridgway Knight, while compiling their catalogue raisonné. His gallery, Rehs Gallery, also promoted contemporary realist artists through its sister entity, Rehs Contemporary.

Legacy of Mentorship and Community Engagement

Rehs’s influence was felt not only through his work but also in his personal relationships within the art ecosystem. He was known for his generosity and mentorship. Hammond, an abstract artist represented by Rehs Contemporary, remarked, “Howard was an amazing friend and mentor. He made me feel like a rockstar and treated me like family.” This sentiment was echoed by many who interacted with him, highlighting his kindness and his commitment to nurturing emerging talents.

His family, including his wife Amy Rehs, daughter Alyssa Boggia, and son Lance Boggia, all integral to the gallery’s operations, remember him not only for his professional achievements but also for his unwavering support and love. He is survived by two grandchildren, Theadora “Teddy” Jane Boggia and Bennett Sawyer Boggia.

Rehs served on several notable panels, including one for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that reviewed and evaluated artworks. His leadership roles included board membership on the Antiques Council and presidency of the Fine Art Dealers Association (FADA). Throughout his career, he was a familiar presence at art fairs, where his passion for art and his engaging personality endeared him to many.

As the art world reflects on Rehs’s contributions, his legacy as a dedicated expert, mentor, and friend remains vivid. He demonstrated a unique ability to bridge the gap between high art and the appreciation of simpler times, a quality that resonated with colleagues and art lovers alike. Rehs’s commitment to his craft and the community he fostered will continue to inspire future generations in the art world.