Christie’s is set to auction Paul and Jacqueline Duchein’s remarkable Surrealist art collection in Paris, featuring works by Toyen, Tanguy, and Dalí.
In a captivating event that promises to enthral art enthusiasts and collectors alike, Christie’s is set to present a truly extraordinary auction this September.
The sale, entitled “Le théâtre de l’imaginaire, Collection Paul et Jacqueline Duchein”, will showcase a remarkable assemblage of Surrealist masterpieces and eclectic artworks.
This auction not only represents a significant moment in the art world but also pays homage to the passionate collectors who curated this unique collection.
A Theatre of the Imagination: The Duchein Collection
At the heart of this upcoming auction lies the Paul and Jacqueline Duchein collection, a testament to the couple’s lifelong dedication to the arts. The Ducheins, residents of Montauban, France, spent decades amassing a diverse array of artworks that reflect their deep appreciation for Surrealism, folk art, Art Brut, and tribal art.
Their home, often referred to as a “cabinet of curiosities”, became renowned as Montauban’s second major museum, rivalling the esteemed Musée Ingres Bourdelle.
The collection’s significance was further cemented when it was featured in the “Passions privées” exhibition at the Musée d’art Moderne de Paris in 1995. This inclusion underscored the Ducheins’ discerning eye and the exceptional quality of their acquisitions.
Paul Duchein, a pharmacist by profession, and Jacqueline, a biologist, shared an unwavering passion for art that transcended their scientific backgrounds.
Their collection, spanning approximately 150 works, offers a unique glimpse into the realm of Surrealism and beyond, showcasing pieces by renowned artists such as Marie Toyen, Yves Tanguy, Max Ernst, Wolfgang Paalen, André Breton, Salvador Dalí, Victor Brauner, and Man Ray.
Auction Details and Highlights
The auction is scheduled to take place on 24 September 2024 at Christie’s France, located at 9 Avenue Matignon in Paris. Art enthusiasts and potential buyers will have the opportunity to view the collection from 18 to 24 September, allowing ample time to appreciate the breadth and depth of the Duchein collection.
One of the standout pieces in the auction is a painting by Marie Toyen (also known as Marie Cermínová) titled “Flux et reflux de la nuit” (1955). This masterpiece carries an impressive estimate of €800,000-1,200,000, highlighting its significance within the Surrealist movement and the art market at large.
The entire collection is expected to fetch between €4.6 million and €7 million, a testament to its exceptional quality and historical importance. This estimate reflects not only the individual value of each piece but also the cohesive narrative of Surrealism that the collection presents.
A Celebration of Surrealism
The timing of this auction is particularly significant as it coincides with the centenary celebration of Surrealism. This avant-garde movement, officially launched by André Breton’s seminal “Manifesto of Surrealism” in 1924, has left an indelible mark on the art world. Christie’s is proud to participate in a series of events commemorating this milestone throughout the autumn.
In addition to the Duchein collection auction, Christie’s will host a selling exhibition titled “Images du labyrinthe, l’atelier Surréaliste: carte blanche à Audrey Guttman” from 12 September to 2 October 2024.
This exhibition will offer visitors another perspective on Surrealism, complementing the Duchein collection and providing a comprehensive look at the movement’s enduring influence.
The Legacy of Paul and Jacqueline Duchein
The story of Paul and Jacqueline Duchein is one of dedication, passion, and a shared love for the arts. Meeting in 1938 in Montauban, the couple’s journey as collectors began shortly after, evolving into a lifelong pursuit that would ultimately shape the cultural landscape of their hometown.
Their collection, described as “moving and eclectic”, represents more than just an assemblage of valuable artworks. It is a reflection of their intellectual curiosity, their appreciation for the unconventional, and their ability to see connections between disparate artistic movements.
The Ducheins’ home, transformed into a veritable museum, became a destination for art lovers and a source of pride for Montauban.
The decision to bring this collection to auction allows a new generation of collectors and institutions to engage with these carefully curated works. It also ensures that the Ducheins’ legacy as patrons of the arts will continue to inspire and educate.
The Importance of Surrealism in Art History
Surrealism, with its emphasis on the subconscious mind and dream-like imagery, revolutionised the art world in the early 20th century. The movement, spearheaded by André Breton, sought to unleash the creative potential of the unconscious mind, free from the constraints of rationality and reason.
The artists represented in the Duchein collection, including Toyen, Tanguy, Ernst, and Dalí, were key figures in shaping the visual language of Surrealism. Their works often feature unexpected juxtapositions, distorted forms, and symbolic imagery that challenge viewers’ perceptions and invite multiple interpretations.
The enduring influence of Surrealism can be seen in various aspects of contemporary culture, from advertising and film to literature and fashion. The Duchein collection offers a comprehensive look at this influential movement, providing insight into its development and lasting impact.
Christie’s Commitment to Surrealism
Christie’s dedication to celebrating Surrealism extends beyond this single auction. The auction house has planned a series of events throughout the autumn, recognising the movement’s centenary and its continued relevance in the art world.
By hosting both the Duchein collection auction and the “Images du labyrinthe” exhibition, Christie’s is providing art enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to engage with Surrealism on multiple levels. These events not only showcase important works but also contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the movement’s place in art history.
The Art Market and Surrealism
The auction of the Duchein collection comes at a time when interest in Surrealist works remains strong in the global art market. Collectors and institutions continue to seek out significant pieces from this period, recognising their historical importance and aesthetic value.
The estimated value of the Duchein collection reflects this ongoing interest, with individual works like Toyen’s “Flux et reflux de la nuit” commanding particularly high estimates. This auction is likely to attract attention from serious collectors and museums worldwide, potentially setting new benchmarks for Surrealist art at auction.
Conclusion: A Unique Opportunity for Collectors and Art Enthusiasts
The upcoming auction of the Paul and Jacqueline Duchein collection represents a rare opportunity to acquire pieces from one of the most comprehensive private collections of Surrealist art.
Beyond the individual value of each work, the collection offers insight into the vision and passion of two remarkable collectors who dedicated their lives to the appreciation and preservation of avant-garde art.
As Christie’s prepares to bring this “theatre of the imagination” to the public, art enthusiasts around the world eagerly anticipate the chance to view and potentially acquire pieces from this extraordinary collection. The auction not only celebrates the legacy of Paul and Jacqueline Duchein but also reaffirms the enduring appeal and importance of Surrealism in the canon of art history.
For those unable to attend the auction in person, Christie’s offers online bidding options, ensuring that collectors from around the globe can participate in this momentous event.
As the art world turns its attention to Paris this September, the Duchein collection stands as a testament to the power of art to inspire, challenge, and transform our understanding of the world around us.
Images: Christie’s
