A highly anticipated auction is set to showcase a remarkable nude portrait by Lucian Freud, titled Sleeping by the Lion Carpet. This piece is projected to achieve a staggering price between £25 million and £35 million ($33.4 million to $46.8 million) when it goes under the hammer on June 24 at Sotheby's in London. The model, Sue Tilley, expressed her surprise at the auction buzz, stating, "I can't quite believe it's happening," in a conversation with BBC Radio Sussex.
Tilley's introduction to Freud came in 1993 through a mutual friend, fashion designer Leigh Bowery, who was also one of Freud's most notable subjects. Known for his meticulous painting sessions, Freud often required sitters to remain still for extended periods, resulting in many of his subjects being depicted in relaxed poses. Tilley, who worked night shifts, often found herself dozing during these lengthy sessions.
Reflecting on her time with Freud, Tilley described the experience as "very pleasant," albeit with a touch of humor regarding her comfort with nudity. She admitted that embracing her portrayal took time, noting, "I think I've gotten used to it now. I am what I am." Freud, known for his profound appreciation of the human form, once remarked, "Skin is not inanimate. It's a living material."
Sotheby's has characterized Sleeping by the Lion Carpet as the final and most ambitious piece in Freud's renowned series of portraits featuring Tilley. Its auction is particularly noteworthy, as the last piece from this collection fetched a record £35.9 million in 2015, marking a significant milestone for living artists. Until now, this quartet has largely remained in private collections, including that of the prominent Russian collector Roman Abramovich.
Tilley expressed her hope that the future owner of Lion would appreciate it for its artistic value rather than its monetary worth, suggesting that it would be ideal if it could be displayed in a gallery for public enjoyment.