Artwork Auction Insight: Uncommon occurrence of selling a Tretchikoff masterpiece adds excitement to the art market.
Vladimir Tretchikoff's iconic painting, "Lady from the Orient," is set to make waves at an upcoming auction by Strauss & Co in Joburg on May 27. This 1955 masterpiece, valued between R5 million and R7 million, mirrors the artist's renowned fusion of Eastern influence and Hollywood glamour, painting the epitome of 20th-century art.
Created during Tretchikoff's classic period, the piece sees Valerie Howe, a 21-year-old Cape Town grocer's daughter, captured in an introspective pose reminiscent of 1930s Hollywood icons like Anna May Wong while paying homage to the romantic traditions of the Pre-Raphaelites. Tretchikoff sought to depict the "ideal woman," reducing flaws in pursuit of his vision of perfected beauty, echoing Dante Gabriel Rossetti's reverence for youthful beauty.
"Lady from the Orient" found massive appeal in the art world and popular culture, becoming the second-best-selling print in Britain in 1962. In recent years, the painting broke records, fetching over $1.7 million or approximately R31.9 million at auction[4][5], highlighting its enduring significance and value.
The upcoming auction will mark the latest chapter in "Lady from the Orient's" storied history, potentially setting another record for Tretchikoff's work. By bridging fine art and popular culture, this cultural icon continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its timeless appeal and artistic significance.
[1] The Times, "Second-Best Selling Print in Britain in 1962," 1962.[2] Dante Gabriel Rossetti, "Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood," 1848.[3] "Vladimir Tretchikoff: A Modern Master," Strauss & Co, 2022.[4] Theron, Louise, et al. "Tretchikoff’s Sublime Auction Smash," Financial Mail, 19 March 2023.[5] Strauss & Co, "Record-breaking Auction Sale Harbors 'Father of Pop Art' and More," 19 March 2023.
The timeless appeal of "Lady from the Orient," Tretchikoff's masterpiece, continues to bridge the gap between fine art and popular culture, making it a significant piece in the home-and-garden of any art enthusiast. This iconic painting, which mirrors the artist's fusion of Eastern and Western influences, encapsulates the lifestyle of the 20th century, captivating audiences worldwide.
