A stunning watercolour by the renowned British artist JMW Turner is poised to capture the attention of art collectors and enthusiasts alike, with an expected auction price of up to £600,000 at Christie’s this July. This piece, created during Turner’s final tours of Switzerland, represents not only the artist’s extraordinary talent but also a rare opportunity to acquire one of his most celebrated works still held in private ownership.
A Rare Gem in the Art World
The watercolour, titled “The Lauerzersee With The Ruins Of Schwanau And The Mythen,” will be the highlight of Christie’s upcoming sale, “Lines Of Vision: Celebrating 20 Years of Stephen Ongpin Fine Art.” This auction forms part of the gallery’s Classic Week, showcasing an array of works that span centuries. The piece is estimated to achieve a price between £400,000 and £600,000, reflecting its significant value in the art market.
Turner, who passed away in 1851, is famed for his evocative depictions of landscape, and this work stands out among the many created during his time in Switzerland. Unlike many of his larger commissioned pieces, which are now housed in prestigious museums, this watercolour is a rare find, having remained in private hands for years. The auction house describes the artwork as “luminous” and “exceptionally well preserved,” a testament to its quality and significance.
The Landscape of Turner’s Imagination
This particular watercolour showcases the breathtaking scenery beneath the eastern slopes of the Rigi, a mountain beloved by 19th-century tourists and the backdrop for several of Turner’s works. Notably, a previous piece depicting the Blue Rigi fetched a staggering £5.8 million at Christie’s in 2006, setting a world record for a work on paper by Turner—a record that still stands.
The provenance of “The Lauerzersee” is impeccable, tracing directly back to Turner himself, which adds to its allure for collectors. Its well-documented history enhances its desirability, making it a must-have for serious art aficionados.
Celebrating 20 Years of Artistic Legacy
The upcoming auction will feature around 100 drawings and works on paper, with estimates ranging from £700 to £600,000, showcasing a remarkable breadth of styles and periods. Alongside Turner, the auction will include works by luminaries such as Tiepolo, Guercino, and Boucher, as well as modern masters like Picasso, Klee, Matisse, and Frankenthaler.
Stephen Ongpin, whose gallery has been instrumental in promoting works on paper, expressed his enthusiasm for this milestone auction. He shared, “I think it is because I have always been drawn (forgive the pun) to the very intimacy of works on paper.” Ongpin believes that these pieces offer a unique glimpse into the creative process, akin to witnessing an artist’s thoughts as they unfold onto the page.
As he reflects on the significance of the upcoming auction, Ongpin highlighted his desire to introduce his passion for drawings to a broader audience, particularly to a new generation of collectors eager to engage with the art world.
Anticipation Builds
Keith Gill, Christie’s head of sales, echoed these sentiments, calling the auction a “celebration” of Ongpin’s contributions to the field. He remarked on the diverse array of artworks that will be available, each reflecting Ongpin’s discerning eye and commitment to championing exceptional artistry.
Art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to view the works on offer during a pre-sale exhibition from June 26 to July 2, allowing them to immerse themselves in this extraordinary collection before the auction takes place.
Why it Matters
The sale of Turner’s watercolour not only represents a significant financial event in the art market but also underscores the enduring legacy of one of Britain’s most influential artists. As collectors vie for this rare piece, it highlights the intersection of history, culture, and commerce, reminding us of the intrinsic value of art in our lives. Each brushstroke carries the weight of its creator’s vision, and as these works change hands, they continue to tell stories that transcend time and place.
