Picasso's painting sells for $139 million at Sotheby's
What's the story
Pablo Picasso's artistic brilliance continues to captivate the world as his masterpiece, "Femme a la montre," depicting his muse Marie-Therese Walter, sold for a staggering $139 million at Sotheby's in New York.
This 1932 oil painting, a symbol of the artist's personal and creative liberation, has now become the second most valuable work by Picasso ever auctioned.
Story
A tale of love and liberation
In 1932, during Picasso's "annus mirabilis," the artist immortalized his lover, Marie-Therese Walter, in a canvas that reflects the joy of newfound freedom.
The painting, measuring 51¼ x 38 inches, emerged as a masterpiece, showcasing a harmonious blend of bold primary colors and intricate details.
The portrait is a poignant representation of Picasso's emotions and the end of his first marriage.
BTS
Behind the brushstrokes
Picasso's connection with Walter began in 1927, evolving into a profound muse for some of his most coveted artworks.
As their affair became increasingly difficult to conceal, Picasso's art became a canvas for his emotions.
"Femme a la montre" was painted in August 1932, just after a large-scale retrospective that marked the turning point in Picasso's personal and artistic life.
Legacy
The legacy of Fisher Landau's collection
The painting was part of the private collection of the late philanthropist Emily Fisher Landau, a renowned contemporary art collector who passed away at the age of 102 earlier this year.
Fisher Landau's collection, featuring around 120 artworks, is estimated to exceed $400 million in total.
The two-day auction at Sotheby's also includes pieces by Rothko, Warhol, de Kooning, and O'Keeffe.
Journey
A collector's journey
Fisher Landau's journey into art collecting began after an armed robbery in 1969.
Despite a devastating loss of jewelry, she turned her insurance payout into the seed money for a remarkable art collection.
Picasso's paintings, especially those of Walter, held a special place in her assemblage, reflecting the enduring allure of the artist's work.
Ongoing
Picasso's ongoing artistic triumphs
The sale of "Femme a la montre" adds another chapter to the ongoing saga of Picasso's auction successes.
His portraits of Walter have consistently commanded high prices, with other 1932 works achieving multimillion-dollar sales.
Picasso's influence on the art market and creative industry endures, with each auction reinforcing his status as an unrivaled master.