


( Brand: Sothebys ), ( Model: SOTHEBYS CH7703 ), ( Origin: France ), ( Publisher: Christies ), ( Publication Year: 2001 ), ( Type: Catalog ), ( Format: Booklet ), ( Language: English ), ( Personalized: No ), ( Features: Illustrated ), ( Topic: Auction ), ( Season: Autumn ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: CH7703 )
Sotheby's CH-7703 catalog marked a pivotal moment in the art market, showcasing an exceptional array of works by renowned Chicago Imagists and Abstract Expressionists, taking place on October 15-17, 2001. This three-day auction at Sotheby's New York was not only a testament to the significant contributions made by these American artists but also represented the evolving artistic dialogue between the East and Midwest art scenes during the mid-20th century.
The first evening of the sale commenced with an array of Abstract Expressionist works, highlighting iconic artists such as Willem de Kooning, Jackson Pollock, and Mark Rothko. A remarkable Pollock drip painting, "Number 1, 1951" (Lot 21), led the category, estimating at $10 to $15 million. The painting was a quintessential example of Pollock's groundbreaking "drip" technique, which revolutionized the way art was produced and perceived.
Day two was devoted to the Chicago Imagists, a group of artists who emerged in the late 1950s and 1960s, influenced by Surrealism and Pop Art. Among the most coveted lots was Jim Nutt's "Untitled (Three Women)" (Lot 148), a 1965 work in oil on fiberboard. Known for his figural paintings filled with exaggerated detail, Nutt's energetic brushstrokes brought the Crowning-Heads--a reoccurring motif in this work--to life. This essential piece was estimated to sell for $350,000 to $550,000.
The sale concluded on the final day with a selection of works encapsulating various Chicago Imagist artists. One of the most noteworthy pieces was Ed Paschke's "Portrait of Roy Lichtenstein" (Lot 212), a striking example of the artist's signature style. Paschke's use of bold colors, vivid hues, and expressive line-work highlights the pop culture influences that heavily impacted the Chicago art scene. This captivating work was valued at $150,000 to $250,000, a testament to Paschke's enduring relevance and influence within the contemporary art world.
The Sotheby's CH-7703 catalog sale represented a turning point in the auction realm, demonstrating the critical role that Midwestern artists and their artistic developments played in the broader context of post-war American art. Through its incorporation of groundbreaking works by both the Chicago Imagists and Abstract Expressionists, this sale stood out as a significant milestone in the art market's recognition and exploration of the rich artistic dialogues taking place across the United States.
Buying a catalog from an auction such as Sotheby's CH-7703, which focused on Chinese art, held in Chicago on October 15-17, 2001, could be a valuable resource for collectors, scholars, and those interested in the Chinese art market. In evaluating the decision to purchase this catalog, it's essential to consider its potential benefits and potential drawbacks.
Pros:1. Expert Appraisals: The catalog includes detailed descriptions, provenance information, and critical evaluations from renowned Sotheby's experts and external scholars, providing invaluable insight into the pieces on offer.
2. Market Research: The catalog serves as a comprehensive record of the Chinese art market at the time, reflecting the prices and trends of the period.
3. Education: The catalog offers opportunities to learn about different Chinese art periods, styles, and techniques through fascinating background information and stunning images.
4. Networking: Owning a Sotheby's catalog can lead to networking opportunities with other collectors, scholars, or dealers, expanding one's understanding of the Chinese art world.
Cons:1. Cost: The catalog comes with a significant price tag, which can be a deterrent for those on a tight budget.
2. Limited Access: While valuable research material, a catalog doesn't replace a firsthand experience of the auction or the ability to inspect the pieces in person.
3. Availability: Over time, catalogs like these can become hard to find if they're not in stock or secondhand copies in good condition are hard to locate.
4. Date of Reference: This catalog reflects the prices and market trends of the year 2001, which may not be representative of the current state of the Chinese art market.
Conclusion:Sotheby's CH-7703 catalog offers collectors, scholars, and Chinese art enthusiasts valuable insights into the world of fine Chinese art. Its detailed descriptions and expert appraisals can provide significant benefits, including educational opportunities, market research, and networking possibilities. However, potential buyers should consider the catalog's cost, limited access, potential scarcity, and its dated reference when deciding whether to invest in it.
Recommendation:If your budget allows, purchasing the CH-7703 catalog is a worthwhile investment for anyone interested in Chinese art or the history of the Chinese art market. It will provide a glimpse into the fascinating and intriguing world of Chinese art, opening doors to further education and networking opportunities. However, if budget constraints are a concern or if the availability of secondhand copies is an option, it may be advantageous to look for alternative sources for obtaining the information contained within the catalog.
Paperback,368 pages, like new.