Maryellen Washienko, a regular attendee of Grogan and Company’s auctions, noticed a difference in the tone of the audience.

“The auction was very quiet and respectful. Peter’s quiet persona was watching over the individuals purchasing,” she said. “I was so happy to be here and delighted to be in the company of the group.”

At the end of the estate sale nothing remained—an unusual occurrence at the Grogan and Company auction house.

“Most of our buyers are professionals, dealers, and collectors. This was different. Half of these people were brand new to the auction,” Grogan said. “From our perspective it brought a lot new people to the arena.”

The auction raised more than $350,000 dollars. The proceeds will go to Gomes’s alma mater, Bates College.

—Staff writer Matthew M. Beck can be reached at mbeck@college.harvard.edu.

—Staff writer Justin C. Worland can be reached at jworland@college.harvard.edu.