Roseberys’ November Old Master, British & European Pictures Auction demonstrated the appetite for Old Master pictures outside the UK, with the top lots from the sale going to international private buyers.
The sale was led by an early 17th-century depiction of Christ as Salvator Mundi, realising a price of £39,240, over six times its high estimate. The work attracted competitive bidding online and over the phones, ultimately selling to a private buyer in Greece. Dramatically lit from one side, the subject's face is cast in atmospheric relief. The painting shows the unmistakable influence of Caravaggio and his circle of artists working in Rome at the beginning of the 17th century. The intimate scale suggests it may have once hung in a private house or chapel.
Lot 1: Roman School, early 17th century- Salvator Mundi - Price realised: £39,240
Nineteenth-century artists similarly received great interest from bidders: Philip de László’s elegant Portrait of Lady Wadia and a sketch of a seated lady in classical dress by Art Nouveau pioneer Alphonse Mucha both realised prices of £17,056. A touching double portrait by British artist George Chinnery realised a price of £9,840, above its high estimate of £4,500. The works went to private buyers in Scotland, the USA and India, respectively.
Finally, a picturesque depiction of the Lake District by renowned British-Australian landscape artist John Glover realised a price of £18,368 over a high estimate of £15,000. Glover frequently visited the Lake District, embarking on sketching and painting tours to Cumberland and Westmorland from 1793. The expanse of Ullswater and its winding tributary, Gold Rill Beck, are prominently featured in many of his paintings and drawings.
Lot 115: John Glover, British 1767-1849- Gold Rill Beck, Ullswater - Price realised: £18,368
“This sale highlights the enduring appeal of high-quality works, from renowned artists and with strong provenance. We hope to continue to see international growth in the middle market for works by the Old Masters,” said Lara Lara L’vov-Basirov, Head of Sale and Specialist.
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