Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Sotheby's African and Oceanic Art Auction Preview

Hot off the heels of yesterday's Christie's sale in Paris, Sotheby's sale happens today. There are some interesting contrasts between the two sales from the top two auction houses in the world. Whereas Christie's had only two objects for sale above €100,000, Sotheby's is offering 12 of only a 65 lot sale (18%) above that price. In addition, 80% (or 52 lots) are for sale at an estimate above €10,000. But in the end it is the quality of the pieces and the interest in the room that will determine how well this sale goes. 

We'd like to highlight several pieces including Lot 87, a magnificent and rare Kwele 'altar' figure, Gabon. This lot is offered for sale between €450,000 and €600,000. It is an exceptionally fine piece and we believe there will be ample interest in it. 

Lot 89 is A fine and powerful Fang Mvai figure, Ntem Valley, Gabon. This object is estimated to fetch between €150,000 and €250,000.

Stay tuned for the results of the auction coming up. 

Dori Rootenberg

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