Alexander Calder's Unseen Sculpture to be Auctioned in Paris, Expected to Fetch Up to $141,000

What's Happening?

A never-before-seen mobile sculpture by American artist Alexander Calder is set to be auctioned in Paris on May 22 by the Oger – Blanchet auction house. The piece, known as a Stabile-mobile, was created in 1974, just two years before Calder's death. It is expected to sell for between €80,000 and €120,000 ($94,000 to $141,000). This sculpture combines elements of Calder's famous stabiles and mobiles, featuring a red-lacquered sheet metal base and a rotating wire appendage with white-lacquered discs. The piece has been privately held by the family of an anonymous art enthusiast, referred to as 'Mrs. H,' who was an archivist at the French National Museum of Modern Art. The auction coincides with a retrospective of Calder's work at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris.

Why It's Important?

The auction of this previously unseen Calder sculpture highlights the enduring appeal and market value of Calder's work, particularly his mobiles, which are highly sought after in the art world. Calder's mobiles are considered iconic, and his works consistently achieve high prices at auction. The sale of this piece not only underscores Calder's lasting influence on modern art but also reflects the strong demand for unique and historically significant artworks. Collectors and art institutions may see this auction as an opportunity to acquire a rare piece from a pivotal artist whose work continues to shape contemporary art discourse.

What's Next?

Following the auction, the outcome could influence the market for Calder's other works, potentially increasing interest and value in his lesser-known pieces. Art collectors and museums may closely watch the sale to gauge the current market appetite for Calder's art. Additionally, the retrospective at the Fondation Louis Vuitton may further elevate Calder's profile, attracting new audiences and collectors to his work. The auction could also prompt discussions about the preservation and exhibition of privately held artworks, especially those with significant historical and artistic value.