Press release : Arts Passion auction on April 20th 2025 - Press release
Arts Passion auction on April 20th 2025 - Press release
- 3/31/25
- Paintings
- XX° century
L'oiseau bleu
Since 1989, the traditional prestige auction held at the Hôtel Martinez in Cannes has become a not-to-be-missed event for lovers of art and exceptional collections. This 37th edition, to be held on Easter April Sunday, 20th 2025, promises to reveal previously unseen and prestigious collections of modern and post-war art, contemporary art and design.
Among the treasures up for auction are iconic paintings and sculptures by leading modern and post-war artists.
A rare and sought-after sculpture by François-Xavier Lalanne, entitled "L'Oiseau Bleu", estimated at 180000/200000€
A BIRD FROM LALANNE'S POETIC BESTIARY
Enthusiast of modern art and close friend of François Xavier Lalanne, the current owner's father acquired this bronze print of "Oiseau Bleu" directly from the artist. From 1945, François-Xavier Lalanne studied at the Julian Academy in Paris, where he trained in drawing, painting and sculpture. Moving to a studio in Montparnasse, he rubbed shoulders with his neighbours Brancusi, Magritte and Dali. These encounters had a significant influence on his creations and his work. But it was his meeting in 1956 with Claude Lalanne, an artist of the same name, that gave a new impetus to his career. They married and worked together under the same name. In 1962, an exhibition entitled "Zoophytes" was organised at the Jeanine Restany gallery and presented their joint works.
Thanks to their shared influences and a strong taste for drawing, the couple created an infinite variety of bestiary, plants and branches. They draw on all areas of literature and the visual arts, with references ranging from Upper Egypt to Art Nouveau, via the Pre-Raphaelites and Surrealism. The result is fish and hippos that look as if they've escaped from an Egyptian mastaba, hilarious antics that look as if they've emerged from rococo woodwork, an owl or a BEAR in the animal tradition of POMPON. Insanely funny, their work became the darling of Paris, including the Rothschilds, the Noailles and Yves Saint Laurent, whom he met when he decorated the Dior boutique on Avenue Montaigne.
Antique blue/green patina bronze, the ball in the steel beak signed with the monogram "XL", dated 76 and bearing the proof of issue HC 00/00 under the end of the tail.
Height : 17 cm - Length : 30.5 cm - Width : 12.2 cm
Created in 1972, this one made in 1976.
The pieces bearing the HC 00/00 proof (our model) are works attributed directly to the artist or his entourage.
Provenance : Private collection / The current owner's father, an art lover and close friend of François-Xavier LALANNE, acquired it directly from the artist, and it has remained in the family to this day.
Enclosed is an engraving of a bird, signed in pencil and numbered 23/24 (13x16.5 cm) forming a greetings card with the dedication "Happy New Year to you both, my love Claude and François".
Estimate : 180000€ / 200000€
An exceptional Art Deco statue by Egyptian sculptor Mahmoud Mokhtar, "On the banks of the Nile", estimated at 150000/200000€
Mahmoud MOKHTAR 1891-1934
ON THE BANKS OF THE NILE (AL A SHAT ELNIL)
Bronze with black brown patina signed "Mouktar" - Inscribed on the edge of the terrace "Susse Fres. Edts. Paris" and “cire perdue”. Foundry stamp "Susse Frère Editeurs Paris".
Height : 119,4 cm
Provenance : Private collection
Bibliography: Pierre Cadet, Susse Frères, 150 ans de sculpture, 1837-1987, 1992, similar model described p.330 and reproduced on plate 22 as Femme d'Eilethyas / Ahmed Rassim, Shadow: A Page From Modern Art, Cairo, 1936 / Badr Eldin Abou Ghazi, The Sculptor: Mokhtar, Cairo, 1964 / Mohamed Sedki Al-Gabakhangy, The History of the Egyptian Art Movement to 1945, Cairo, 1986 / Badr Eldin Abou Ghazi, Mokhtar : His Life and His Art, Cairo, 1988 / Mahmoud AlNabawai Alshaal and Maha Mahmoud AlNabawai Alshaal, Mahmoud Mokthar: Pioneer in Modern Egyptian Sculpture, monograph, Cairo, May 2005.
Estimate : 80000/ 120000€
Between 1931 and 1939, six works of this size were produced. This important sculpture illustrates the emancipation of Egyptian women at the beginning of the 20th century, combining the aesthetics of ancient Egypt with the Art Deco style.
Mokhtar moved to Cairo in 1902, and was one of the first artists to enrol at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, where he studied with Professor Laplagne. Thanks to a grant, he was able to go to Paris and study at the Beaux-Arts. But a revolutionary movement had begun in Egypt, and Mokhtar joined a group of intellectuals. He took part in the movements that led to Egypt's independence in 1922.
This sculpture of a tall, hieratic Egyptian peasant woman carrying the nourishing water of the Nile became the symbol of the revolutionary movement.
Mokhtar was the first sculptor to take his inspiration from Pharaonic Egypt, and this young peasant woman has all the nobility of the queens of ancient Egypt. Mokhtar fused Pharaonic heritage with European modernist influences to create a unique sculptural style rooted in Egyptian identity.
A marble version of "Au bord du Nil" adorns the entrance to the Mokhtar Museum in Cairo.
"Au bord du Nil" is a major work, a sculptural testimony to emancipation and culture.
"On the banks of the Nile" and Its Importance
Mokhtar continues his exploration of female peasant figures, who symbolise both the tradition and the strength of the Egyptian people. His sculptures exude great emotional power, highlighting the simplicity and dignity of the subjects depicted.
This work illustrates his commitment to paying tribute to the working classes, who were often forgotten by the academic art of his time. It is a continuation of his work on the representation of Egyptian women, whom he depicts as a central element in the country's national identity and emancipation.
Expert : Linda NATAF-GOLDMANN, Paris - Tél. : 06 87 24 59 33 - Expert auprès de l'UFE Union française des experts en objets d'art - membre N° 503
Hans Hartung 1904-1989
In his book Self-Portrait (1976), Hans Hartung said: "I love black, it's probably my favourite colour". The use of blue-black backgrounds in his works of the 1980s provided a striking contrast to the splashes and luminous strokes he applied to the surface. This period was marked by an increased freedom of gesture, where the artist, freed from convention, explored the limits of abstraction and colour. The paintings from this period reflect a raw energy and emotional depth, capturing the essence of his artistic expression.
Hans HARTUNG 1904-1989
T1980-H42, 1980
Acrylic on canvas monogrammed and dated top right
On the back on the stretcher :
T1980-H42
Ph of 1.10.80
R 172 and R 209 of 20.11.80
73 x 100 cm
Provenance: Private collection / Given by H. Hartung to the current owner, a close friend of the artist / This work is referenced in the archives of the Hartung - Bergman Foundation and will be included in the Catalogue Raisonné of Hans Hartung's work.
Estimate : 90000/ 110000€
Tsuguharu FOUJITA 1886-1968
Tsuguharu FOUJITA 1886-1968
LE PETIT CHIEN PÉKINOIS DEBOUT ÉTONNÉ, 1924
Graphite drawing on paper signed on the left "Tsuguharu" in Japanese and "Foujita".
23.5 x 28 cm
Provenance : Private collection
Bibliography: This work is listed and numbered in the ACRB artistic archives; it is included in volume 5 of the Catalogue Général Raisonné of the works of Tsuguharu FOUJITA. A certificate from Madame Sylvie Buisson will be given to the buyer (n°E24.225.D)
Estimate : 15000/ 20000€
Copyright : © Fondation Foujita / Adagp, Paris, 2025
Andy WARHOL 1928-1987
Andy WARHOL 1928-1987
QUEEN MARGRETHE II OF DENMARK, from the "Reigning Queen" series of 1985
Silkscreen in colour on Lenox Museum Board, image and full sheet signed and numbered in pencil "3/40 Andy Warhol" lower left
100 x 80 cm
Published in 1985 by George C.P.Mulder, Amsterdam, and printed by Rupert Jason Smith, New York (printer's stamp), in an edition of 40 plus 30 trial proofs in unique colour combinations and stamped with the artist's copyright on the verso
Bibliography: Feldman, J.Schellmann, ‘Andy Warhol. Prints. A Catalogue Raisonné 1962-1987’, 2003, p.144., cat.no. II. 344
Estimate : 30000/40000€
Copyright: © The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by ADAGP, Paris [2025]
Robert COMBAS, born in 1957
Robert Combas, one of the leading lights of the Figuration Libre movement, takes an expressive pictorial approach, combining influences from pop art, comic strips and art brut. This 1987 work is a perfect example.
Robert COMBAS, born in 1957
THE LITTLE GIRL WITH THE CALF'S HEAD, 1987
Acrylic on canvas signed and dated lower right
118 x 63 cm
Provenance : Galerie Yvon Lambert / Loudmer sale of 13.04.92 reproduced on page 33 of the catalogue / Collection La Colombe d'or, Saint Paul de Vence / Private Collection
Bibliography : This work is listed in the Robert Combas Archives
Estimate : 50000/ 60000€
Pablo PICASSO 1881-1973
Pablo PICASSO 1881-1973 Madoura Edition
HEAD OF A GOAT IN PROFILE, 1952
Oblong dish - White earthenware, engobe decoration under partial glaze with a red, grey, green, grey brush, patina - Stamped "Madoura Plein Feu" and "empreinte originale Picasso" - Edition of 250
Height : 31 cm - Length : 51 cm
Provenance: Private collection
Bibliography: Alain Ramie, Picasso, catalogue de Oeuvre céramique éditée 1947.1971, Editions Galerie Madoura, Vallauris, 1988, n° 146 p. 81.
Estimate : 18000/ 22000€
Antoniucci VOLTI 1915-1989
Antoniucci VOLTI 1915-1989
ARROGANCE also known as LA FEMME ATHLÈTE
Sculpture in bronze with black shaded patina, signed on the back on the left hip "Volti" marked underneath "Epreuve d'Atelier" and under the right buttock "Susse Fonderie Paris".
Height : 64 cm - Width : 45 cm - Depth : 35 cm (Some wear and rubbing to the patina)
Provenance : Private collection
We would like to thank Mr Nicolas Antoniucci, the artist's son, for kindly confirming the authenticity of this work.
Estimate : 15000/ 20000€
An exceptional collection of Italian and Scandinavian design, including pieces by Gio Ponti
Gio PONTI 1891-1979
Pair of armchairs model 516
Walnut frame, openwork slatted backrest, all resting on four tapered legs, sprung seat. Seat and back cushions covered in beige fabric.
Height : 78 cm - Width : 62 cm - Depth : 79.50 cm
Provenance: François EPIN - Art & Design Consulting
Estimate : 20000/ 30000€
Gio PONTI 1891-1979
Pair of "Garzanti" armchairs, circa 1953
Sheathed legs, structure and sloping armrests in varnished ash, seat and back upholstered in ecru velvet
Height : 94 cm - Width : 56 cm - Depth : 80 cm
Provenance : Artcurial sale 4240 of 30/11/2022
Bibliography : F. Bertoni, Gio Ponti: "Idee" d'arte e di architettura a Imola e in Romagna, Imola, Edizioni La Mandragora, 2012. A similar copy is reproduced on p. 195. A certificate from the Gio Ponti archive will be given to the buyer.
Estimate : 40000/ 60000€
And a collection of rare and sought-after lamp sculptures by French designer Lionel Yonel Lebovici
YONEL LEBOVICI : Designer & Sculptor - Poet of matter
We have the privilege to present a unique collection of six remarkable works by Yonel Lebovici (1937-1998), an emblematic figure of twentieth-century French design. These pieces, rare on the market, bear witness to the artist's creative genius, combining art, functionality and technical innovation. From a renowned private collection, these works were acquired with care and passion, for the most part directly from the Lebovici family, reinforcing their authenticity and historical importance. Through this selection, we find the essence of Lebovici's work : a sculptural approach to design, bold materials such as chromed metal and Plexiglas, and a futuristic vision that continues to influence the world of art and design.
Yonel LEBOVICI 1937-1998
"Soucoupe" lamp
Rare sculptural table lamp, Soucoupe model, circa 1978
Composed of an aluminium disc with a central sphere and four lateral spheres, two of which are luminous, arranged on three triangular steel strips resting on a black lacquered steel base, signed "Lebovici Y", numbered 20 on the base.
Height : 50 cm - Diameter : 45 cm
Provenance : Large and renowned private collection / The current owner and collector has a large collection. The current owner and collector acquired this lamp directly from the Lebovici family.
Bibliography : Catalogue of the exhibition Yonel Lebovici 1937-1998, 15 Square de Vergennes, 2003, similar model reproduced p. 87 / M. Chartier, Yonel Lebovici Sculpteur de haut niveau, Stein Ouaki, 1995, similar model reproduced p. 58 / Anne Bony, Yonel Lebovici, Du Regard, 2022, similar model reproduced p.78
Commenting on this model, Lebovici said: "The expanse of the air or the universe of time symbolised by this saucer presumed to belong to a planetary world".
This lamp, made around 1978, is contemporary with the year of its creation.
Estimate : 25000/ 30000€
Yonel LEBOVICI 1937-1998
"Les yeux sans visage" floor lamp, 1981
Two light-diffusing eyes in polished aluminium and chromed steel are linked to the slender shaft by a tubular arch in black-lacquered steel, like a fragile mobile. The whole rests on a black lacquered steel base. Signed in point on the base "Lebovici Y" and numbered 10. Limited edition of 10 pieces + 2 artist's proofs.
Height : 200 cm - Width : 80 cm - Depth : 50 cm
Provenance : Large and renowned private collection
The current owner and collector acquired this lamp directly from the Lebovici family.
Bibliography: "Yonel Lebovici, sculpteur de haut niveau", Michèle Chartier, Ed Stein Ouaki, Paris, 1995 p.67 / "Yonel Lebovici 1937-1998", D. et Y. Lebovici, Ed YP Art Expo, Paris, 2003, pp. 104-105. / "Les décorateurs des années 60-70", P. Favardin and G. Bloch-Champfort, Ed Norma, Paris, 2007, p. 238.
This floor lamp, "Les yeux sans visage", is considered to be one of Lebovici's most iconic works. His innovative design and ability to transform everyday objects into luminous sculptures left their mark on the design world of the 1980s.
Estimate : 20000/ 30000€
An auction under the banner of exception... and justice
As a prelude to the Easter Sunday art auction on April 20, an exceptional sale of confiscated goods, ordered at the request of AGRASC (Agence de gestion et de recouvrement des avoirs saisis et confisqués), will be held. Exceptional items will be auctioned, including the refined interior of a sumptuous residence on the Cannes coast and several prestigious cars.
These include a rare Steinway & Sons model 0-180 piano with a black finish, estimated at 3000/5000€, a prestigious and important cutlery set from the "Elysée" collection by Puiforcat Paris, Haute Orfèvrerie Classique, estimated at 12000/15000€, and an exceptional "Savonnerie" rug, estimated at 5000/10000€. Not to mention the luxury cars, including an AUDI R8 SPYDER V10 5.2 L, estimated at 40000/50000€, a PORSCHE 911 T, estimated at 55000/62000€, and a PORSCHE 993, estimated at 38000/43000€, and an elegant 1964 MERCEDES PAGODE 230 SL, estimated at 45000/55000€. All items from this sale will benefit the French government.
STEINWAY & SONS STEINWAY & SONS - MODEL 0-180 BLACK FINISH
This model is the largest grand piano in the intermediate sizes. The Steinway 0-180 differs from parlor and concert pianos only by its shorter body length and meets all the expectations of advanced and professional musicians.
Serial number on the plate : 514 589, which would indicate a probable date of manufacture in 1990.
Length : 180 cm - Width : 146.5 cm - Weight : approximately 286 kg
It includes a stool (good overall condition, some scratches on the varnish).
Estimate : 3000/ 5000€
PUIFORCAT Paris - Classic Fine Silversmithing
PRESTIGIOUS AND IMPORTANT "ELYSÉE" CUTLERY COLLECTION
297 solid silver pieces / Total weight : approximately 15.350 kg
Estimate : 12000/ 15000€
Important and exceptional "SAVONNERIE" rug, approximately 9.30 m long by 5.38 m wide.
Decorated with a central ivory and old gold medallion, a wreath of garlands, acanthus, foliage scrolls, and vine branches on a wine-red background, framed by a gadrooned border with four numbered spandrels AN - Circa 1957
Fabulous provenance : Specially commissioned in 1957 for the Château de la Garoupe in Antibes by Anthony Norman, grandson of Sir Charles Benjamin Bright MC Laren, who built the property in 1907. The Norman family, notably Sir Henry Norman and their son Sir Anthony Norman, were closely associated with the Château de la Garoupe, contributing to its development and history throughout the 20th century.
Estimate : 5000/ 10000€
Audi R8 SPYDER
Estimate : 40000/ 50000€
MERCEDES 230 SL PAGODE
Estimate : 45000/ 55000€
PORSCHE 911 T CARRERA TYPE 991
Estimate : 55000/ 62000€
PORSCHE 911 CARRERA TYPE 993
Estimate : 38000/ 43000€
Auction Program
Sunday, April 20 : 2:30 p.m. Auction at the request of the AGRASC - Tableware, Luxury Objects and Furnishings from a sumptuous property on the Côte d'Azur - Collectible and Prestige Cars
Sunday, April 20: 3:30 p.m. ARTS PASSION - Modern and Post-War Art - Contemporary Art & Design - From private collections and various collectors
Public Exhibitions in the lounges of the Hôtel Martinez in Cannes: Friday, April 18, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. / Saturday, April 19, from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. / Sunday, April 20, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Vehicle Showcases : Saturday, April 19th from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 20th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - 06250 Mougins
Expert Consultant: David Mizzaro - Tel: +33 6 71 70 73 88
For more information about this exceptional auction, please contact Maître Besch at +33 4 93 99 33 49 or by email at besch@cannesauction.com
