A Historic Auction for Scottish Art
A remarkable milestone was achieved recently in the world of Scottish art when a painting by Agnes Miller Parker, a Glasgow School of Art-trained artist from Ayrshire, sold for a staggering £176,600 at auction. This sale marks a new world record for the artist, whose works span from her birth in 1895 until her passing in 1980. The price fetched for “The Horse Fair” is believed to be tenfold the previous highest price realized for her artwork in an auction setting.
The Unique Nature of Miller Parker’s Work
Created in 1928, the painting is not just significant due to its record-breaking price but also because it is one of only a handful of similar pieces by Miller Parker. Known more for her talents in wood engraving and illustration, this particular painting showcases her artistic versatility and the evolving nature of her style. The rarity and originality of Miller Parker’s work are likely key factors contributing to the heightened interest and bidding frenzy seen at Lyon & Turnbull’s auction.
Spotlight on S.J. Peploe’s “Iceland Poppies”
In a noteworthy display of talent, a stunning still life painting titled “Iceland Poppies” by the renowned Scottish Colourist, S.J. Peploe, also garnered significant attention during the auction. Selling for £302,600, this piece found a new home after a competitive bidding process. Alice Strang, Senior Specialist at Lyon & Turnbull, shared that the painting, which was included in Peploe’s last lifetime solo exhibition in London in 1934, was consigned from a distinguished private American collector.
Auction Highlights
The auction achieved an impressive total of £1.64 million over two sessions, held both at Lyon & Turnbull’s Edinburgh showroom and online. Other notable highlights included John Duncan Fergusson’s “Place de L’Observatoire,” which sold for £75,800. Originally purchased for £40 in 1957, this Parisian street scene has certainly appreciated remarkably over the decades, reflecting the growing interest in Scottish art.
The Growing Interest in Scottish Art
Alice Strang commented on the increasing international interest in Scottish art, emphasizing the excitement around the auction results. The significant prices fetched for these works highlight a growing recognition of Scottish artists and their contributions to the art world. Strang noted the thrilling bidding war over Peploe’s piece, indicating a robust market for high-quality Scottish art.
A Nod to Other Artists
In addition to Miller Parker’s and Peploe’s works, the auction also featured key pieces from other notable artists. The Orcadian artist Stanley Cursiter’s painting “The Mirror,” a portrait of a female nude that was first offered for £40 in 1913, sold for an impressive £53,120. Each of these sales adds to the rich tapestry of Scottish art history, showcasing the diverse talents and artistic expressions found within the region.
Unprecedented Times for Art Auctions
The recent auction signals not just a moment in history for the individual artists but also a broader movement in the appreciation of Scottish art. As collectors and enthusiasts continue to explore and invest in these masterpieces, it is evident that the legacy of these artists will endure, influencing future generations of art lovers and creators alike.