Following a remarkable £197.5 million ($265 million) in its recent modern and contemporary evening sale, Christie's London is gearing up for its modern British and Irish art auction on March 18. This event will prominently feature works by renowned artists Frank Auerbach, Lynn Chadwick, and Barbara Hepworth, showcasing a carefully selected collection of 26 pieces.
A standout piece in the auction is Auerbach's Christmas Tree at Mornington Crescent (2004-05), which carries a high estimate of £2 million ($2.6 million). The painting, characterized by Auerbach's signature thick application of paint, exemplifies his unique approach to landscape art. The location, Mornington Crescent, is significant as it is close to Auerbach's studio in Camden and has been a recurring subject in his work over the years.
Another highlight is Chadwick's bronze sculpture Back to Venice (1988), which is being auctioned for the first time and comes from the esteemed collection of Dr. Robert Holton. This piece, created more than three decades after Chadwick received the International Prize for Sculpture at the 1956 Venice Biennale, reflects his enduring connection to the city that played a pivotal role in his artistic journey. Christie's hopes that this work will achieve a strong response, especially following the recent sale of a Henry Moore bronze for £26.3 million ($35.2 million).
Alice Murray, Christie's head of modern British and Irish art, noted that Chadwick's sculpture encapsulates a significant moment in his later career. "It represents a culmination of Chadwick's journey," she explained, emphasizing its monumental scale and the excitement surrounding its connection to the upcoming Biennale.
The auction will also present two notable works by Hepworth: Curved Form (1960), carved from a single piece of walnut, and Solitary Form (1971), crafted in white marble, with high estimates of £1 million ($1.3 million) and £700,000 ($900,000), respectively.
Postwar paintings are well-represented, including Recollection (1986) by the 94-year-old Bridget Riley, estimated at £1.2 million ($1.6 million). This work marks a pivotal point in Riley's career, influenced by her vibrant experiences in Egypt.
British Pop artist Peter Phillips will also feature with Motorpsycho/Ace (1962), a piece that has never been auctioned before and is sourced from the collection of Italian curator Enrico Crispolti. Additionally, Glyn Philpot's luminous portrait Balthazar (1929) is highlighted as one of the strongest works by the artist to enter the market.
Murray expressed confidence in the auction estimates, stating, "We believe we've priced the works reasonably and are eager to see the market's response." She also noted the growing global interest in modern British and Irish art, particularly from the United States.