Sotheby’s Modern and Contemporary African Art auction
Sotheby’s held their biannual Modern and Contemporary African Art auction in September. The top lot was Lady of the Harem by Irma Stern (1946) estimated at £600 000 to £800 000. Visit: https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2024/modern-contemporary-african-art-2?locale=en
This past September, Sotheby’s held their Modern & Contemporary African Art Auction at the New Bond Street galleries. It showcased a diverse range of exemplary works. The event featured trailblazing masterpieces by renowned pioneers and dynamic creations by rising stars. Spanning a century of artistic production, the auction offered remarkable pieces. Notable artists included Ben Enwonwu, Cheri Samba, Gerard Sekoto, and James Barnor. Additionally, works by Zanele Muholi, Ibou Diouf, Lisa Brice, and Cinthia Sifa Mulanga were highlighted. Many more acclaimed artists were also represented. It was an exceptional event.
Leading this season’s sale was Irma Stern’s Lady of the Harem (estimated at £600 000 to £800 000). Stern explored the effects of slavery in Zanzibar and the limited lives of the women of the local harems. Stern’s striking portrait of a member of a Zanzibari harem captures her constrained history, giving her agency at a time when she had none.