Christie’s to auction pioneering art dealers Mary and Alan Hobart’s private collection, showcasing Modern Irish and British masterpieces.
Christie’s is set to offer the private collection of Mary and Alan Hobart, the visionary founders of Pyms Gallery and influential champions of Irish art in Britain.
This extraordinary auction, scheduled for 19 November 2024 at Christie’s London, promises to be a watershed moment in the realm of modern art, offering collectors and enthusiasts alike a rare glimpse into the discerning taste and pioneering spirit of two of the industry’s most respected figures.
A Legacy of Artistic Discovery and Promotion
For nearly five decades, Mary and Alan Hobart have been at the vanguard of shaping the international art market, leaving an indelible impression on both public and private collections internationally.
Their tireless efforts to promote Modern Irish art and elevate the profiles of lesser-known and female artists have not only transformed the landscape of the art world but have also challenged long-held perceptions and biases within the industry.
The Hobarts’ journey began in 1974 with the establishment of Pyms Gallery in London, a space that would become synonymous with the rediscovery and promotion of Irish artists who had previously been overshadowed by their British or Scottish counterparts.
The Hobarts secured their legitimate position in the annals of art history by reclaiming these artists for Ireland and demonstrating their unwavering commitment to artistic excellence and a keen eye for talent.
Working closely with esteemed institutions such as the National Gallery of Ireland, the Hobarts have been instrumental in shaping public collections and influencing private collectors’ tastes. Their expertise and passion have not only enriched the cultural heritage of Ireland but have also contributed significantly to the global appreciation of Modern Irish art.
A Collection Reflecting Connoisseurship and Vision
The Hobarts’ private collection, which is meticulously cultivated over decades and is located in their residences in Mayfair, London, and Cap Ferrat, France, is a testament to their discerning taste and remarkable legacy.
This assemblage of works represents a harmonious dialogue between leading Modern Irish artists and their British contemporaries, offering a unique perspective on the artistic movements that shaped the 20th century.
Among the highlights of the collection are works by Sir William Orpen, Jack Butler Yeats, and Mary Swanzy, three pillars of Modern Irish art whose contributions have been instrumental in defining the nation’s artistic identity.
These masterpieces are complemented by works from renowned British artists such as Bridget Riley, Augustus John, and Patrick Heron, creating a rich tapestry of visual expression that spans diverse styles and movements.
The collection’s breadth extends beyond painting, encompassing carefully selected pieces of furniture, decorative arts, and design. This holistic approach to collecting reflects the Hobarts’ deep appreciation for the interplay between different forms of artistic expression and their understanding of art as an integral part of daily life.
Championing the Underrepresented
One of the most defining aspects of the Hobarts’ legacy has been their unwavering commitment to championing female artists who have been historically underrepresented in the art world.
Their collection proudly features works by trailblazing women artists such as Dod Procter, Eileen Agar, Mary Swanzy, and Rita Duffy, whose contributions to the development of Modern art have often been overlooked.
By seeking out these artists and showcasing their works at Pyms Gallery, the Hobarts have played a crucial role in bringing these talented women into the spotlight. Their efforts have not only enriched the discourse surrounding Modern art but have also helped to redress the gender imbalance that has long plagued the art world.
A Unique Opportunity for Collectors and Institutions
The auction of the Hobarts’ private collection presents a rare opportunity for collectors and institutions to acquire works of exceptional quality and historical significance. Many of the pieces in the collection have not been publicly displayed for years, adding an element of excitement and discovery to the event.
Elizabeth Comba, Head of Sale and Specialist in Private & Iconic Collections at Christie’s London, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming auction, stating: “It is a great honour for Christie’s to be entrusted with the sale of Mary and Alan Hobart’s private collection.
Mary and Alan Hobart played a pivotal role in the art market, effectively establishing a new canon of Modern Irish art, with landmark exhibitions showcasing artists such as Sir William Orpen, Mary Swanzy and Jack Butler Yeats.
Their extraordinary personal collection demonstrates how the Hobarts’ sharp and instinctive eye also championed the work of so many other great modern artists and designers. We look forward to welcoming visitors to our London and Dublin views”.
The Art of Curation: Insights into the Hobarts’ Approach
The Hobarts’ approach to collecting was not merely about acquiring valuable works of art; it was a deeply personal and intellectually rigorous process that reflected their commitment to advancing the understanding and appreciation of Modern art.
Their collection is distinguished by a forward-thinking vision that anticipates future trends in the art market, aesthetic harmony, and an acute sense of historical context.
One of the most striking aspects of the Hobarts’ collection is its emphasis on artists who were ahead of their time or who challenged conventional artistic norms. By championing these innovative voices, the Hobarts not only enriched their own collection but also played a crucial role in shaping the broader narrative of 20th-century art.
The couple’s dedication to research and scholarship is evident in the inclusion of their modern art reference library as part of the auction. This extensive collection of books, catalogues, and archival materials offers invaluable insights into the Hobarts’ curatorial process and serves as a testament to their commitment to advancing art historical knowledge.
The Impact on Public Collections
While many of the paintings handled by the Hobarts over the years have found their way into prominent public collections, the works retained for their private collection offer a unique glimpse into their personal tastes and curatorial vision.
The auction provides public institutions with the opportunity to acquire pieces that complement and enhance their current collections of Modern Irish and British art.
The Hobarts’ influence on public collections extends beyond the works they have sold or donated. Their exhibitions and scholarly contributions have played a crucial role in shaping curatorial approaches to Modern Irish art, encouraging a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of the period.
The ripple effects of their work can be seen in the increased prominence of Irish artists in major museums and the growing recognition of Ireland’s unique contribution to the narrative of Modern art.
Bridging Cultures: Irish Art in a Global Context
One of the most significant achievements of the Hobarts has been their ability to position Modern Irish art within a broader international context. By exhibiting Irish artists alongside their British and European contemporaries, they have highlighted the interconnectedness of artistic movements across borders and challenged the notion of a insular national artistic tradition.
This approach is reflected in the diversity of their private collection, which seamlessly blends works by Irish, British, and international artists. The juxtaposition of these diverse voices creates a rich dialogue that illuminates the shared concerns and influences that shaped Modern art in the 20th century.
The Future of the Market for Modern Irish Art
The auction of the Hobarts’ private collection is likely to have a significant impact on the market for Modern Irish art. As collectors and institutions vie for these exceptional works, it is expected that prices for key Irish artists will see a substantial increase, further cementing their place in the canon of Modern art.
Moreover, the attention generated by this high-profile sale is likely to spark renewed interest in the field of Modern Irish art, potentially leading to new scholarship, exhibitions, and collecting trends. The Hobarts’ legacy, as embodied in their collection, will continue to shape the discourse surrounding Irish art for generations to come.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
As the art world eagerly anticipates the auction of Mary and Alan Hobart’s private collection, it is clear that their impact extends far beyond the realm of commerce.
Through their visionary approach to collecting and promoting art, the Hobarts have reshaped our understanding of Modern Irish and British art, championed underrepresented voices, and set new standards for connoisseurship and scholarship in the field.
The sale of their collection at Christie’s represents not just the dispersal of exceptional works of art, but the continuation of a legacy that has enriched the cultural landscape for decades.
As these pieces find new homes in public and private collections around the world, they will carry with them the spirit of discovery, inclusivity, and passion for art that defined the Hobarts’ remarkable career.
For collectors, institutions, and art enthusiasts alike, this auction offers a unique opportunity to be part of this enduring legacy and to play a role in shaping the future of Modern art appreciation and scholarship. As the hammer falls on each lot, a new chapter begins – not just for these individual works of art, but for the ongoing story of Modern Irish and British art that the Hobarts have so profoundly influenced.
Images: Christie’s
