Phillips Hosts Historic Auction in Hong Kong to Celebrate 10th Anniversary in Asia
Phillips, a leading international auction house, recently celebrated its 10th anniversary in Asia with a major modern and contemporary art auction in Hong Kong. This event, taking place on September 27 and 28, 2023, highlighted Phillips’ expanding presence in the area, showcasing a wide range of works by esteemed artists from around the world.
The auction achieved a remarkable $28 million in sales, featuring masterpieces from both Western and Asian art scenes. Among the notable works was Yoshitomo Nara’s “Pinky,” an acrylic painting from 2000 that sold for $7.2 million, just shy of its estimate but still securing the highest sale price of the auction. This piece, distinguished by its portrayal of an androgynous child against a soft pink backdrop, represents Nara’s distinct style and was a focal point of the sale.
Another major highlight was Zao Wou-Ki’s “27.01.86,” which garnered considerable attention and achieved the second highest sale price of $3.83 million. Celebrated for his vibrant abstract canvases, Zao Wou-Ki mesmerized collectors with a rare work that had resided in a private collection for over 75 years.
The auction also included creations by pop art icon Andy Warhol, whose work “Hearts Pink” explored universal symbols, and Tom Wesselman’s “Smoker #17,” which reached a sale price of $1.8 million. Wesselman’s canvas is a classic example of pop art, illustrating a stylized and whimsical silhouette through its vivid representations of everyday objects.
Other featured artists at the auction included Yayoi Kusama, known for her striking and colorful installations, and Takashi Murakami, who showcased the captivating painting “I stare into your eye.” This eclectic array underscores Phillips’ dedication to presenting both established and emerging artists from across the globe.
Prior to the auction, the public had the chance to view these artworks during a preview event at Phillips’ West Kowloon galleries from September 22 to 28. The exhibition displayed a selection of enthralling works, including Loie Hollowell’s stirring painting “Hung (down)” and Ruth Asawa’s detailed copper wire sculptures, further showcasing the variety of artistic expression on display at the event.
Phillips’ recent auction in Hong Kong illustrates the company’s successful foray into the Asian market over the last decade. With numerous significant sales and an expanding list of prominent artists, Phillips is establishing itself as a preeminent player in the global art auction landscape. For additional information about Phillips and their auctions, interested individuals can visit their official website or engage with their activities on social media.