Christie’s, the renowned auction house, recently unveiled its much-anticipated September online Prints & Multiples sale, featuring a stellar collection of editions by prominent 19th and 20th-century masters.
This auction boasts an impressive array of Post-War American prints, showcasing the genius of artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Rauschenberg, and David Hockney. Additionally, it presents Abstract Expressionism through the works of Joan Mitchell, Helen Frankenthaler, and Brice Marden, along with the minimalist artistry of Sol Lewitt.
Exploring the Iconic Prints of Andy Warhol
One of the standout highlights of this sale is a significant collection of prints by the legendary Andy Warhol. Notable pieces include “Moonwalk” (1981, estimated at £250,000-350,000), “Marilyn Monroe” (1967, estimated at £100,000-150,000), “Shoes” (1981, estimated at £70,000-100,000), “Superman” (1981, estimated at £150,000-250,000), and “The Shadow” (1981, estimated at £30,000-50,000). Of particular interest, “The Shadow” showcases Warhol’s playful exploration of himself as the enigmatic comic superhero.
A Rare Glimpse of Vincent Van Gogh’s Etching
A true gem of this auction is a rare impression of Vincent Van Gogh’s only etching, “L’Homme à la Pipe: Portrait du Docteur Gachet” (1890, estimated at £70,000-100,000). This masterpiece portrays Dr. Paul Gachet, who mentored Van Gogh in the art of etching during the artist’s final weeks. It’s a poignant glimpse into the last chapter of Van Gogh’s life.
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec’s Fascinating Lithographic Masterpiece
Another remarkable piece in the collection is Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec’s “La Grande Loge” (1897, estimated at £200,000-300,000). This lithographic masterpiece offers a captivating view of the queer subculture of fin-de-siècle Paris. It portrays Madame Armande Brazier, the proprietor of Au Hanneton, a popular lesbian bar in the Rue Pigalle, alongside the dancer Émilienne d’Alençon.
Contemporary Editions: A Glimpse into Cutting-Edge Artistry
Christie’s Contemporary Edition section celebrates the avant-garde in printmaking, featuring established artists and emerging talents from the late-20th century to the present day. This season’s online-only sale places a strong emphasis on works by distinguished British artists. Among the highlights are groundbreaking pieces published by The Paragon Press, including Grayson Perry’s monumental “The American Dream (Pink and Mauve)” (2021, estimated at £30,000-50,000) and “The Map of Nowhere (Blue)” (2008, estimated at £20,000-30,000) – both presented in never-before-seen colour variations.
The auction also showcases Christopher Wool’s complete set of “My House” (2000, estimated at £40,000-60,000), Yayoi Kusama’s “Citrouille (I)” (2000, estimated at £30,000-50,000), multiple colour variants of Banksy’s “Choose Your Weapon,” and a diverse selection of works by STIK, including colour variants of “Piggyback (Onbu),” “Walk,” and “Liberty.” Furthermore, the sale features recent editions by contemporary artists like INVADER, Pejac, KAWS, Caroline Walker, David Shrigley, and Jadé Fadojutimi.
In conclusion, Christie’s September online Prints & Multiples auction is a treasure trove of artistic excellence, spanning centuries and genres. It offers collectors and art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to acquire iconic works that have left an indelible mark on the world of art. Don’t miss the chance to explore and bid on these exceptional pieces that bear witness to the rich tapestry of artistic history.
Images: Christie’s
