A René Magritte painting sold for $121.2 million at Christie's in New York, setting a new auction record for the artist and becoming the most expensive lot of the New York November sales season. The painting had a third-party guarantee of $95 million, ensuring its sale. Magritte's previous auction record was $79.5 million, set in March 2022 at Sotheby's in London.
René Magritte's painting 'L'empire des lumières' sold for over $121 million at a Christie's auction in New York, setting a new record for the Surrealist artist. The 1954 artwork, known for its juxtaposition of night and day, was part of the late Mica Ertegun's collection. The sale comes amid a slowdown in global art sales, highlighting the unique market dynamics when iconic works are auctioned. Other notable sales included works by Ed Ruscha, Max Ernst, and David Hockney.
Pattie Boyd, model and photographer, is selling a collection of letters, photos, and other items at Christie’s auction house, offering a glimpse into the heart of the 1960s and 70s counterculture. The collection includes affectionate letters from her rock icon husbands George Harrison and Eric Clapton, as well as clothing, jewelry, drawings, and photographs. The auction also features love letters from Clapton, original cover artwork for Derek and The Dominos’ album "Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs," and Harrison’s handwritten lyrics. Boyd, known as a musicians’ muse, hopes to share these items with others and the collection is on display at Christie’s until March 21, with online bidding closing on March 22.