What's Happening?
Sotheby's in New York is set to auction Van Gogh's 'Sower in a Wheatfield with setting Sun' on November 18, with an estimated price between $8 million and $10 million. This drawing, owned by the late Leonard
Lauder, could surpass the previous record for a Van Gogh drawing if it exceeds the $8.8 million hammer price of 'La Mousmé,' sold in 2021. The drawing was originally made for Van Gogh's friend Emile Bernard and is a copy of a painting currently held by the Kröller-Müller Museum in the Netherlands. The auction will also feature other significant works from Lauder's collection, including pieces by Gustav Klimt, expected to fetch over $400 million.
Why It's Important?
The auction of Van Gogh's 'Sower' is significant as it highlights the enduring value and appeal of Van Gogh's work in the art market. A new record price for a Van Gogh drawing would underscore the artist's continued influence and the high demand for his works among collectors. The sale also reflects the broader trend of high-value art transactions, which can impact the art market by setting new benchmarks for pricing. Additionally, the auction of Lauder's collection, including major works by Klimt, could influence future sales and valuations of similar artworks.
What's Next?
Following the auction of 'Sower in a Wheatfield with setting Sun,' Sotheby's will offer additional Van Gogh works from the Pritzker collection, including 'Parisian Novels' and 'Public Garden with Benches.' The outcome of these sales could further impact the valuation of Van Gogh's works and the art market at large. Collectors and investors will be closely watching the auction results, which may influence future bidding strategies and the acquisition of high-value art pieces.
Beyond the Headlines
The sale of Van Gogh's 'Sower' drawing not only highlights the financial aspects of art collecting but also raises questions about the cultural and historical significance of such works. As art pieces change hands, their provenance and the stories they carry become part of the broader narrative of art history. The auction also reflects the role of major collectors like Leonard Lauder in preserving and promoting art, as well as the impact of their collections on public institutions through donations and sales.
