In a captivating display of artistry and immense value, Gustav Klimt’s renowned masterpiece, “Insel Im Attersee,” commanded a staggering $53.2 million at a recent Sotheby’s auction in New York.
This remarkable achievement stands as one of the highest prices ever achieved for the artist at auction, firmly solidifying his status as an icon in the art world. The bidding frenzy lasted for an intense 7 minutes, ultimately leading to the artwork’s acquisition by a Japanese private collector represented by Yasuaki Ishizaka, Chairman & Managing Director for Sotheby’s Japan.
The significance of this auction extends beyond its extraordinary monetary value. It marks a momentous 83 years since “Insel Im Attersee” played a pivotal role in elevating Klimt’s global reputation, serving as his first exhibited work in America.
Originally part of the esteemed collection of art historian and gallerist Otto Kallir, this masterpiece was among a select few showcased at Kallir’s gallery, Galerie St. Etienne, in 1940, as part of the groundbreaking exhibition titled “Saved from Europe.” This exhibition not only propelled Klimt’s career forward but also introduced Austrian Expressionism to an audience largely unfamiliar with it in the United States at that time.
Crafted between 1901 and 1902, “Insel Im Attersee” exemplifies Klimt’s audacity and unrestrained artistic freedom, which he readily embraced within the landscape genre, unburdened by the constraints of commissioned works.
The early Attersee paintings epitomize Klimt’s distinctive approach to composition, with “Insel Im Attersee” standing out as one of the most radical and visually striking examples. Notably, the painting captivates viewers with its unique perspective, featuring a deliberately high horizon and the island’s upper edge extending beyond the frame.
This bold cropping technique employed by Klimt bears resemblance to Monet’s adoption of the square canvas for his renowned “Nymphéas” series, produced around the same period.
Helena Newman, Sotheby’s Worldwide Head of Impressionist & Modern Art, aptly describes “Insel Im Attersee” as one of Gustav Klimt’s most daring landscapes. It showcases the artist’s uninhibited exploration of light and colour, a departure from his customary style, rarely seen in his body of work.
Celebrating the painting’s presence in New York holds special significance, as over 80 years ago, it was among the first pieces by Klimt ever exhibited in America. This historic event not only cements Klimt’s legacy as a Modern master but also demonstrates the enduring allure and impact of his artistic vision.
“Insel Im Attersee” took centre stage as part of the Modern Evening Auction, following the highly successful sale of the Mo Ostin Collection, which amassed an impressive total of $123.7 million. This collection included the sale of René Magritte’s “L’Empire des lumières” for an astounding $42.3 million, further emphasizing the magnitude of the evening’s art sales.
In conclusion, the resounding success of Gustav Klimt’s “Insel Im Attersee” at the Sotheby’s Modern Art Evening Auction not only attests to its artistic brilliance but also reaffirms Klimt’s enduring influence and prominence in the art market. With its record-breaking price and rich historical
Images: Sotheby’s