|
Return to Artist's page
Question: Scott Jacobs Biography
Answer: From Gallery Owner to Global Icon
Scott Jacobs (born 1958) is a New Jersey native whose "no-smoke" training began in the back of a van. At 19, he purchased his first art gallery below market value and worked as a successful dealer for 25 years. He didn't begin painting professionally until 1989, when his wife, Sharon, gave him an easel and paints for Christmas. To get honest feedback, he initially displayed his work in his own galleries under the pseudonym Escotete. His breakthrough came in 1993 when his hyper-realistic motorcycle paintings caught the attention of Harley-Davidson, leading to a historic worldwide license. His portfolio quickly expanded to include Chevrolet (Corvette), Ford, Mattel (Hot Wheels), and the estates of Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley. Beyond the "chrome," Jacobs is equally famous for his Wine and Spirits series, which he began after wanting to paint a still life for his own dining room. Today, his work is held in 40 museums, including the Petersen Automotive Museum and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.
At Herndon Fine Art, we have been a primary source for Scott Jacobs for over 30 years, tracing his path from the first "Fat Boy" paintings to his modern vineyard masterpieces. Our collection features Vetted Consignments (RH code) and Vetted Dealer Networks, focusing on his low-edition Artist Proofs (AP) and hand-embellished canvases. Because Jacobs’ style relies on "perfection in reflection," our vetting process ensures that the high-gloss finishes and deep blacks have not suffered from surface scratching or "clouding." We stand behind every signature with our A+ BBB commitment. |
| |
|
| |
Question: Why did he use the name "Escotete"?
Answer: In the early days (1989–1993), Jacobs didn't want his gallery clients to buy his work just because they liked him as a dealer. He used the pseudonym Escotete to get "no-smoke," honest feedback. At Herndon Fine Art, we verify these early pieces in your database, as they represent the foundation of his hyper-photorealism style. |
| |
|
| |
Question: How can a painting be "Mistaken for a Photograph"?
Answer: Jacobs uses a technical layering process that involves taping and masking sections to maintain razor-sharp edges. By using a 000 size brush, he can paint reflections within reflections—down to the tiny writing on a motorcycle engine or the vintage label on a wine bottle. His market remains robust; while major original canvases can realize between $40,000 and $150,000, his hand-signed Giclees consistently realize between $1,500 and $4,500 on the secondary market. |
| |
|
| |
Question: What should I look for on the "Verso" of a canvas?
Answer: Jacobs often "signs twice." While the signature on the front is a hallmark, many of his premium canvas editions (like Members Only) are also signed, titled, and dated on the verso (the back). We check for these double-signatures in your records to verify the piece's provenance and value. |
| |
|
| |
Question: How did his "Harley-Davidson" license change his market?
Answer: In 1993, Jacobs became the first officially licensed Harley-Davidson artist. This created a massive "crossover" market between art collectors and motorcycle enthusiasts. Pieces featuring specific vintage models, like the Knucklehead or Panhead, are the "blue chips" of his portfolio. |
| |
|
| |
Question: What is "Photorealistic" technique vs. a photograph?
Answer: Jacobs uses brushes as small as a single hair to achieve his detail. Collectors should look for the "chrome reflection" areas; his ability to paint a reflection within a reflection is his technical hallmark. This detail is what separates his work from lower-quality motor-art. |
| |
|
| |
Question: Does the "Wine" series hold the same value as the "Biker" art?
Answer: His Cuvee and Estate series (wine bottles) appeal to a different demographic but are equally technically proficient. However, his "Motorcycle" works generally have a more active secondary market and higher liquidity due to the dedicated Harley-Davidson fan base. |
| |
|
| |
Question: How do "Vetted Consignment" and "Vetted Dealer Network" listings differ?
Answer: At Herndon Fine Art, we value talking to people over "shopping carts." Vetted Consignments (RH code) are pieces sourced from private estates—often long-term motorcycle collectors—that we have physically inspected. Vetted Dealer Network (TAC or AE) listings come from our trusted partners like Park West Gallery. Regardless of the source, our 40-year reputation stands behind every signature. |
| |
|
| |
Question: Why should I consult with Herndon Fine Art for a Scott Jacobs purchase?
Answer: Because Jacobs is so prolific, there are many "promotional" prints and merchandise items in the market. We use our experience to distinguish between a Hand-Signed limited edition giclee and an open-edition poster. We also check for "UV fading" in the red pigments—common in his wine and motorcycle works—to ensure the vibrancy is perfectly preserved. We don't do "shopping cart" sales; we want to talk with you directly to ensure the piece meets your investment standards. |
| |
|
| |
Return to Artist's page
1. EVERY piece of art receives my personal verification of condition and authentication.
2. I WILL NOT ship artwork that isn't in a condition I would accept into my own collection.
3. An A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau
***** ALL PRICES are set by each Seller based on their Unique Motivation to Sell ***** We have a low commission structure of only
25% above each Seller's asking price or a $minimum commission. This allows us to provide buyers with the best price, sellers a better opportunity to sell, and still keep the lights on. In almost all cases, artwork is shipped unframed (UNLESS The ARTWORK IS ON CANVAS or 3-DIMENSIONAL), as I need to personally verify the artworks' authenticity and condition. Artwork that is shipped Framed is shipped framed to protect the work during shipping. Framing is considered USED
NOTE: Inventory is continuously changing so view your favorite artists pages often. For information on having your inventory added to our Website, contact us at the address below.
Click on the Link below and Join us as a Friend for ongoing featured information
Every client has different motivations for selling and as such we don't offer pricing on the pieces clients sell
If you are looking for the value of your limited edition artwork -- we have a $50 charge for certificates of value if you provide the title, the number of your piece, and an image of your artwork. Original one-of-a-kind pieces require a formal appraisal. Please see our Appraisal Services page.
All information contained in these web pages is trademarked and copyrighted by Herndon Fine Art (c). All visual copyrights belong to the artists. All rights reserved. |
