masterpieces and editions: artists whose works are featuring for the first time in astaguru auction
AstaGuru is pleased to present the second edition of its international art auction. Titled 'Masterpieces and Editions,' AstaGuru's upcoming auction is set to unveil a medley of works by global masters from varied periods of modern art. This finely curated selection will traverse the rich tapestry of artistic evolution, from the early 20th-century movements to the groundbreaking artistic expressions in the contemporary era. Among these spectacular ensembles are creations by four artists whose works are featured in an AstaGuru auction for the first time. Here is a glimpse into these works and artists making their debut appearance in an AstaGuru auction scheduled for July 20-21, 2023.
JOCONDE (Ed : 109 / 250) by Rene´ Magritte's
One of the defining characteristics of Rene´ Magritte's art was his fascination with ordinary objects, which he would visually reinterpret and transform, imbuing them with new and unexpected meanings. With his thought-provoking and enigmatic works, the Belgian artist carved a unique niche for himself in the art world, becoming one of the most influential figures in the history of Surrealism. In 1967, the last year of his life, René Magritte decided to produce sculptures inspired by some of his paintings. The resulting sculptures, such as the presented lot, became instantly recognisable due to carrying the legacy of his unique and distinct visual iconography. Titled - Joconde (the happy one), the presented lot is a bronze sculpture inspired by his painting executed in 1960. The theme of the painting recurred in Magritte's works in different iterations. In this sculpture, three closed curtains stand upright with a large pebble resting at their side. Depicted sans the customary context of a window, the curtains hint at a hidden realm beyond them. At the same time, conceal nothing in actuality.
L’OUSTACHI (Ed : 41/50) by Joan Miro´
Born in 1893 in Barcelona, Spain, Joan Miro´ was a prominent figure of 20th-century art, celebrated for his groundbreaking formal innovations, which emerged during the avant-garde movements of Dadaism and Surrealism. Desiring to portray both the visions within his mind and the sights before his eyes, Joan Miró sought to showcase the transformative power of imagination in shaping reality. He delved into memory, fantasy and the irrational, crafting artworks that served as visual metaphors. These paintings, often referred to as 'Peinture - Poésie,' presented dreamlike visions adorned with gestural abstract signs, symbols and written words.
One of the most influential British artists of the 20th century, David Hockney, has left an indelible mark on the art world with his ability to reinvent himself and push the boundaries of his artistic expression. Central to his vision is a profound exploration of human perception as he delves into the multifaceted ways in which we observe and interpret images and spaces. In 1963, he made his first journey to Southern California in the US. Falling in love with the radiant sunshine and laidback lifestyle, he decided to relocate to Los Angeles. His portrayal of the city in highly evocative paintings of modernist architecture, rolling hills, and swimming pools became one of the most recognisable themes in his work. Often depicting leisurely moments of life around swimming pools, these colourful paintings are imbued with a web of cultural connotations.
THE NEWS (Ed : AP 6/20) by KAWS
Famous for his signature limited-edition toys, paintings, sculptures and prints using a variety of media, Brian Donnelly, or KAWS as he is professionally known, is a celebrated artist and designer in the Western contemporary art world. KAWS' art prominently exhibits a distinct Pop Culture influence, evident in his whimsical cast of characters and motifs, notably recognised by their crossed-out eyes. Among these characters, some are original creations, while others are reimagined iterations of beloved pop culture figures like the Michelin Man, The Simpsons and Mickey Mouse. This fusion of iconic references with his unique artistic style contributes to the unmistakable essence of KAWS' work.
Titled ‘Masterpieces and Editions,’ AstaGuru’s upcoming auction will present an exquisite medley of works from different periods and movements of modern art. The collection puts a spotlight on the emergence and impact of modern art in the 19th and 20th centuries with creations by masters, including Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Bernard Buffet, Marc Chagall, René Magritte, Joan Miro´, and David Hockney among others. The finely curated selection also showcases creations by Surrealist master Salvador Dalí as well as works in three different mediums by Andy Warhol, the icon of Pop Art. Also on offer is a range of signature style creations by globally renowned contemporary artists, including Jeff Koons, Damien Hirst, Fernando Botero, Anthony James, and KAWS.
About AstaGuru
AstaGuru was conceptualised in the year 2008 with the sole purpose of creating a safe and secure platform to conduct online auctions for Indian, Contemporary & Modern Art. The word AstaGuru is a thoughtful conjugation of ‘Asta’, of Italian origin, which translates to auction and ‘Guru’, Sanskrit connotation for ‘master’ that indicates our distinguished finesse at being the leaders of auctioneering art and artefacts in India as well as globally. With the world melting into one harmonious digital cosmos, AstaGuru has strived to successfully bridge the gap between prospective buyers and consignors by transcending the limitations of live auctions. AstaGuru imparts effortless transparency to the process of acquiring and selling art and rare collectables. Our diverse portfolio includes categories such as Jewellery & Fine Silver, Timepieces, Textiles, Celebrity Memorabilia, Rare Books, Numismatic, Philately and Vintage Cars. AstaGuru’s mobile app enables our esteemed bidders to follow and participate in our auctions seamlessly, and in real-time.
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