Works by Renoir, Rodin and Braques will lead an upcoming sale of Impressionist and Modern art at Bonhams next week.
"The turn of the 20th century was one of the most exciting periods in art history," said India Phillips, Bonhams Director of Impressionist and Modern Art. "In this sale we are offering high quality works illuminating the movements and stylistic developments of that time which resonate to this day."
Leading the sale is the still life ‘Le compotier’, by French artist Georges Braque, one of the most influential figures of his day who played a major role in the development of both Fauvism and Cubism.
Painted in 1942, at the height of WWII, the simple work betrays a darker scene, as food rationing began to hit hard across the country. Featuring just half a pear, three cherries and an empty wine glass, the work depicts a time in which food was in people’s thoughts but not on their tables.
Described as "a vibrant example of his singular vision", Braque’s painting is expected to sell for £350,000 – £550,000 ($495,000 – $776,500).
Another leading lot is Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s pastoral landscape Paysage bord de mer. Having moved to the Côte d’Azur in the early 20th century on medical advice, Renoir fell back in love with landscape painting and began capturing the beautiful light and colour of his new surroundings.
This example, painted in 1912, is estimated at £150,000 – £200,000 ($211,750 – $282,350).
Further highlights from the sale will include Villa Demière, Madame Lebasque et Marthe à la fontaine by Henri Lebasque, estimated at £180,000 – £250,000 ($254,100 – $352,900); Nature morte by Henri Hayden, estimated at £100,000 – £150,000 ($141,170 – $211,750); and Tête de torero by Bernard Buffet, valued at £150,000 – £200,000 ($211,750 – $282,350).
They will join the previously announced La Jeunesse triomphante, a major sculpture by August Rodin, which is expected to sell for £120,000 – £180,000 ($172,700 – $273,400).
Bonhams Impressionist and Modern sale takes place in London on June 23.
