John Hinckley Jr.’s Courtroom Sketches to Be Auctioned,Offering a Rare Glimpse into a Historic Case
A collection of courtroom sketches depicting John Hinckley Jr., the man who attempted to assassinate President Ronald Reagan, is heading to auction this week. These unique pieces, created by the late artist Freda Reiter, provide a compelling visual record of a pivotal moment in American history.
Reiter, known for her work documenting significant legal proceedings, captured Hinckley’s demeanor throughout his trial.You’ll find sketches revealing a range of emotions, from attempts to conceal his face to moments of visible distress.
A career Documenting Landmark Trials
Freda Reiter wasn’t just present for the Hinckley trial.Her portfolio boasts sketches from some of the most talked-about cases of the 20th century, including:
The Patty Hearst trial
The Gary Gilmore execution
The Chicago 7 trial
The Watergate trials
Supreme Court hearings
Tricia Nixon Cox’s wedding
Her work offers a fascinating, firsthand perspective on these events.
What’s Included in the Auction?
Alexander Past Auctions, a renowned auction house specializing in historical artifacts, is handling the sale. The auction package includes a substantial collection:
22 full sketches
6 partial studies
Detailed depictions of Hinckley, including images of him covering his face, reviewing documents, and reacting to the jury’s verdict.
Studies showing a suicide attempt and moments of despair within St. Elizabeths Mental Hospital.
These sketches aren’t just artwork; they’re historical documents. They offer a unique window into the psychological state of a man who profoundly impacted the nation.
Hinckley’s Life After the attempt
Hinckley was found not guilty by reason of insanity and spent decades in a psychiatric hospital.His unconditional release in 2016 sparked considerable debate. Since then, he has pursued a struggling musical career, attempting to reinvent himself after years of confinement.
How You Can Acquire These Historical Pieces
The auction is scheduled to take place on Friday as part of a three-day event beginning Wednesday. If you’re a collector of historical memorabilia, or simply fascinated by this case, this is a rare opportunity to own a piece of history. You can find more information and view the full catalog at
