A stunning portrait by the renowned artist Lucian Freud has sold for an astonishing £25 million at Sotheby’s, with the final hammer price reaching an impressive £29.26 million after including the buyer’s premium. The artwork, entitled *Sleeping by the Lion Carpet*, features Sue Tilley, a woman from Sussex, who spent nearly nine months posing for the piece in Freud’s eclectic studio located in Holland Park, London.
A Glimpse into the Artist’s World
Tilley’s experience sitting for Freud was anything but conventional. Describing the artist’s studio as “really shabby”, she recalled the chaotic environment filled with “all sorts of rubbish on the floor” and even a Rodin sculpture repurposed as a doorstop. Despite the disarray, Tilley noted that her time with Freud was often punctuated by leisurely lunches, complete with champagne, which turned the lengthy sittings into a more enjoyable affair.
Reflecting on her portrayal, Tilley remarked, “It shows me in my glorious naked bigness squashed into a chair with a lion carpet behind me.” This candid description highlights not only the intimate nature of the artwork but also Tilley’s comfort with her own body, a theme that resonates throughout Freud’s oeuvre.
The Auction and Its Aftermath
The auction itself was a spectacle, drawing considerable attention from collectors and art enthusiasts alike. Although the painting had an estimated sale price ranging from £25 million to £30 million, it ultimately exceeded expectations, selling for £29.26 million. However, Tilley revealed a stark reality: despite her integral role in the creation of the portrait, she has not received any financial share from the sale. “I’ve never got actually paid any money from the portrait selling,” she stated, although she acknowledged having earned money through various smaller jobs and some generous gestures from Sotheby’s.
Her reluctance to be dubbed Freud’s “muse” speaks volumes about her perception of the artist-sitter dynamic. “I hate that word,” Tilley clarified, expressing her discomfort with the romanticised notion of a muse as a delicate figure draped in chiffon. Instead, she insists that her relationship with Freud was much more grounded and pragmatic.
Life Beyond the Canvas
Despite the global acclaim of the portrait, Tilley’s life in St Leonards remains largely unchanged. She describes her daily routine as “very mundane”, filled with simple pleasures like watching television, spending time at the beach, and socialising with friends. “Then out of the blue suddenly something really bizarre happens,” she remarked, alluding to the whirlwind of media attention following the auction.
Interestingly, the sale coincided with a new exhibition at Hastings Contemporary, featuring works by both Henry Moore and Lucian Freud, including an etching of Tilley herself, titled *Woman with an Arm Tattoo*. This exhibition, running until 13 September, underscores the enduring relevance of both artists and their connections to the local community.
Why it Matters
The staggering sale of *Sleeping by the Lion Carpet* not only reflects the soaring value of contemporary art but also raises poignant questions about the financial recognition of artists’ sitters. Tilley’s experience shines a light on the often-overlooked contributions of individuals who sit for portraits, challenging the traditional narratives around art and its creators. While a £25 million auction may signify success in the art world, it also highlights the disparities in recognition and remuneration—a conversation that deserves to be had as the art market continues to evolve.
