What's Happening?
Larry Gagosian is exhibiting a $7 million painting by Peter Paul Rubens at Art Basel in Paris. The painting, 'The Virgin and Christ Child, with Saints Elizabeth and John the Baptist,' dates back to around 1611-14 and is displayed alongside works by modern
and contemporary artists. Gagosian, who has a long-standing appreciation for Old Masters, aims to create a dialogue between Rubens' work and that of artists like John Currin and Pablo Picasso. The exhibition is notable for Art Basel's exception to its usual 1900 cut-off for artworks.
Why It's Important?
This exhibition highlights the enduring influence of Old Masters like Rubens on contemporary art. By juxtaposing historical and modern works, Gagosian seeks to explore the cultural and artistic connections across centuries. The inclusion of a Rubens painting at a contemporary art fair like Art Basel underscores the market's evolving appreciation for historical art, potentially influencing collectors and art enthusiasts. It also reflects Gagosian's role in bridging different art periods, enhancing the cultural dialogue within the art community.
