Gustav Klimt’s iconic painting, “Dame mit Fächer” (Lady with a Fan), has achieved a historic milestone in the art world. The masterpiece became the most expensive painting ever to sell at auction in Europe, fetching a staggering £74 million ($94.3 million) at the Sotheby’s London Modern and Contemporary Evening Auction. This is Gustav Klimt’s most beloved work
Including fees, the total price reached an impressive £85.3 million ($108 million), surpassing the previous European auction record held by Alberto Giacometti’s “Walking Man I,” which sold for $104.3 million at Sotheby’s London in 2010.
Initially, “Lady with a Fan” was expected to fetch around $80 million, but the final bid far exceeded those projections. Notably, this painting had previously been auctioned at Sotheby’s New York in 1994, where it sold for a mere $11.6 million. The current record-breaking price represents a monumental increase in value over the years.
According to Sotheby’s, “Lady with a Fan” was still positioned on an easel in Klimt’s studio when the artist tragically passed away from a stroke in early 1918. While this painting may not be as widely recognized as his famous works like “The Kiss” (1907–08) or “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I” (1907), it exudes the spontaneity and artistic brilliance that characterize Klimt’s most beloved creations.
The painting showcases Klimt’s signature style, combining delicate brushwork, vibrant colors, and intricate patterns to portray a captivating female figure holding a fan. The subject’s enigmatic expression and the meticulous attention to detail are characteristic of Klimt’s distinctive approach to portraiture.
The significant sale of “Lady with a Fan” highlights the enduring appeal and appreciation for Klimt’s masterpieces. The artist’s oeuvre continues to captivate collectors and art enthusiasts around the world, as demonstrated by the remarkable bidding competition that drove the painting’s price to unprecedented heights.
The record-breaking auction not only underscores the enduring value of Klimt’s work but also reinforces the thriving art market in Europe. London, renowned for its vibrant art scene, has once again proven itself as a hub for prestigious auctions and remarkable acquisitions.
As the gavel fell and the final bid was announced, “Dame mit Fächer” solidified its place in history as a testament to Klimt’s artistic legacy and achieved a remarkable feat in the realm of European auctions. The painting’s immense value serves as a reminder of the enduring power of art to inspire and enthrall generations of viewers and collectors alike.