In a remarkable event for art enthusiasts in India, AstaGuru is set to host an extraordinary auction featuring renowned masterpieces by some of the world’s greatest artists. From Pablo Picasso to Salvador Dali, Joan Miro to Henri Matisse, and Andy Warhol to Bernard Buffet, this auction offers a unique opportunity to experience the works of these iconic artists up close. With a selection spanning influential movements of the early 20th century to contemporary art, this collection of 30 lots promises to be an impressive showcase of the evolution of modern art.
Highlights of AstaGuru’s International Iconic Masterpieces & Editions Auction
The star attraction of the auction is a 1969 pencil drawing on paper by the Spanish master Pablo Picasso, titled “Nu Couche” (Reclining Nude). Estimated to fetch between Rs 3.94 crore and Rs 4.98 crore, this late career work represents a period when Picasso became more daring and prolific in his exploration of various mediums. Even to the untrained eye, the unmistakable Picasso signature style shines through in this exquisite piece.
The second most valuable lots include works by two legendary artists: Salvador Dali and Marc Chagall. Dali’s bronze sculpture from 1980, “Horse Saddled With Time,” portrays a glistening horse carrying the weight of time, depicted through a melting clock—an iconic Dali motif. Measuring 70.1 x 18.9 x 54.3 inches, this remarkable sculpture is estimated to fetch between Rs 3.68 crore and Rs 4.98 crore. Chagall’s dreamlike painting from 1959, titled “Profile,” known for its vibrant reds, purples, greens, blues, and yellows, is also estimated in the same price range.
HORSE SADDLED WITH TIME (Ed : 1/8)
70.1 x 18.9 x 54.3 in (178 x 48 x 138 cm) Bronze
1980
INR 3, 68,52,000 – INR 4, 98, 00,000 | $ 444,000 – 600,000. Courtesy: Astaguru
Another notable artwork at the auction is Andy Warhol’s silkscreen ink on synthetic fabric piece from 1980, titled “Portrait Of Joseph Beuys.” Estimated at Rs 1.41 crore – Rs 1.60 crore, this work captures the multiple photographic portrait of German artist Joseph Beuys, taken by Warhol during their meeting in Germany in 1979. Warhol, a leading figure of the global Pop Art movement, utilised the photograph as inspiration for several artworks.
Rounding off the top five is yet another masterpiece by Chagall, a gouache and ink on paper piece titled “Double Profile,” created around 1938-1939. Estimated at Rs 82 lakh – Rs 92 lakh, this artwork showcases Chagall’s ability to capture the deepest realities of the human mind through his distinctive use of colours and symbolism.
Contemporary Giants in the Auction
In addition to the masters of the past, AstaGuru’s auction also features works by three contemporary giants: Jeff Koons, Damien Hirst, and Kaws. Jeff Koons, known for his instantly recognisable sculptures, presents three porcelain sculptures: “Balloon Rabbit Violet,” “Balloon Monkey Orange,” and “Balloon Dog Yellow.” Inspired by inflatable characters, Koons’ sculptures are a testament to his artistic vision and technical skill.
Damien Hirst, renowned for pushing the boundaries of art, presents “Skull Spin Painting.” This kaleidoscopic artwork, created in 2009 using acrylic on paper, showcases Hirst’s penchant for exploring themes of life and death in his thought-provoking creations.
SKULL SPIN PAINTING
28 x 20.1 in (71 x 51 cm) Acrylic on paper
2009. Courtesy: Astaguru
Fernando Botero, the celebrated Colombian artist known for his distinctive portrayal of plump figures, presents “Couple,” a pencil and watercolour drawing on paper. Estimated between Rs 64.4 lakh and Rs 74.7 lakh, this artwork captures Botero’s signature style and unique perspective.
Conclusion
The AstaGuru International Iconic Masterpieces & Editions auction in India offers a rare and captivating opportunity to witness the evolution of modern art through works by iconic artists such as Picasso, Dali, Chagall, Matisse, Renoir, and many more. With a collection that encompasses influential movements of the past century and includes contemporary art giants, this auction promises to be an unforgettable experience for art enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether it’s the surrealism of Dali, the vibrant dreamscapes of Chagall, or the contemporary brilliance of Koons, Hirst, and Kaws, this auction offers a unique chance to immerse oneself in the timeless beauty and profound artistic expressions of these masters.
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