In a moment that has captured the art world’s attention, a compelling portrait by the illustrious Lucian Freud, titled *Sleeping by the Lion Carpet*, has sold for an astonishing £25 million at a Sotheby’s auction. The sitter, Sue Tilley, a resident of St Leonards, shared her experiences of posing for the renowned artist, reflecting on the complexities of her relationship with the artwork that has now achieved international acclaim.
The Portrait and Its Sale
The auction event, which transpired recently, saw the final bid reach an impressive £25 million, with the total sale amounting to £29,260,000 when including the buyer’s premium. Tilley, who sat for the painting over the course of nine months, described the piece as a portrayal of her “glorious naked bigness squashed into a chair with a lion carpet behind me.” The artwork had been expected to sell for somewhere between £25 million and £30 million, and it comfortably exceeded expectations.
Tilley recounted her time spent in Freud’s studio, a space she described as “really shabby,” cluttered with various items and even featuring a Rodin sculpture being used as a doorstop. Her sittings typically stretched from early morning to mid-afternoon, punctuated by extended lunches filled with champagne—a testament to Freud’s relaxed yet dedicated approach to his craft.
An Unconventional Muse
Despite the monumental sale of the portrait, Tilley made it clear that she has not financially benefited from the painting’s auction price. “I’ve never got actually paid any money from the portrait selling,” she lamented. While she has received smaller jobs and some generosity from Sotheby’s for her assistance, the compensation pales in comparison to the sum achieved at auction.
Moreover, Tilley expressed her disdain for being labelled as Freud’s “muse.” She firmly stated, “I hate that word because I imagine a very thin little person… all in love and wafting around in chiffon dresses, pining for the artist which wasn’t me, I have to say.” Her candidness reveals a desire to distance herself from the romanticised notions often attached to artists and their subjects.
Life After the Spotlight
Though the portrait has gained significant attention, Tilley’s life continues along a largely unremarkable path. She described her daily routine as “very mundane,” filled with simple pleasures such as watching television, enjoying the beach, and chatting with friends. However, the occasional whirlwind of activity, triggered by the sudden fame associated with the painting, can disrupt her tranquil existence. “Out of the blue suddenly something really bizarre happens, and I’m all busy for about a week and it’s all over,” she reflected.
This juxtaposition of an ordinary life against the backdrop of extraordinary art highlights the often-overlooked reality of those behind the canvas. Tilley’s story serves as a reminder that while the artwork may achieve fame and financial success, the lives of its subjects may remain grounded and unchanged.
An Exhibition and Continuing Legacy
Coinciding with this high-profile sale, Hastings Contemporary has launched a new exhibition featuring works by both Henry Moore and Lucian Freud. This exhibition includes *Woman with an Arm Tattoo*, an etching that also features Sue Tilley, and will remain open until 13 September. This connection to the contemporary art scene allows Tilley to remain part of the ongoing dialogue surrounding Freud’s legacy, albeit in a somewhat peripheral manner.
Why it Matters
The sale of Freud’s portrait not only underscores the astronomical values that can be placed on contemporary art but also raises important questions about the relationship between artists and their subjects. Tilley’s candid insights challenge the romantic narratives often associated with artistic muses, inviting us to consider the real stories and lives that exist beyond the canvas. As the art world continues to evolve, so too must our understanding of the individuals who help shape it, reminding us that their contributions—both personal and professional—deserve recognition and respect.
