THE PIERRE ET CLAUDE VERITE AUCTION

PRICES SKYROCKET!

NEW RECORDS SET FOR MOST EVERY TYPE OF OBJECT!

As might be expected, there were scores of "runners" at the Verite preview as well as outside the auction during session breaks.  Some of their selling tactics were very direct and aggressive to say the least.  

THE OCEANIC

The obvious question is will Oceanic Masterpieces, which are actually more scarce, ever command the same prices as classic iconic African Art?  Well, the good news is it now appears that oceanic is catching up.  A rare Solomon Island Skull Shrine in the shape of a Bonito fish sold for $877,000 USD.  A New Ireland Malangan Figure standing on one foot with arms outstretched sold for $442,260 USD.  New Guinea art certainly earned some respect too.  An undisputed masterpiece lower Sepik "stone carved" figure brought $413,280 USD.    The New Guinea Abelam house lintel measuring 129.75" was "preempted" by the Quai Branly Museum at a hammer price of 48,000 euros.

Superb 25.5" Lower Sepik Figure, price w/ commission $413,280 usd

Lot 253, New Ireland Malangan 45.5", Final Price w/ commission $442,260 usd

Lot 262, New Pigment Dish 23.75", Final Price w/ commission $53,524 usd

Lot 269, Vanuatu Rom Mask 26", Final Price w/ commission $118,944 usd

Lot 286, Admiralty Island Male Figure 43", Final Price w/ commission $148,680 usd

Lot 287, New Guinea Shield 69.25", Final Price w/ commission $47,578 usd

When the hammer fell at 30,000 euros (44,600 USD) for this New Britain Toali Dance Ornament (lot 308) with virtually no pigment, no provenance or publication history, several were surprised.  Its estimate was 10,000-12,000.  Perhaps two collectors of modern art were bidding against each other??

Lot 322, Solomon Is. Skull Shrine 78", Final Price w/ commission $877,000 usd.  The human skull in the midsection obviously completed this piece, however, few people actually believed the skull was old or Indigenous.

Seated:  Alain de Monbrison, Standing: John Friede (Red Shirt) 

                   Left to Right:   Wayne Heathcote, Jack Sadovnic, and Bruce Frank

A word to collectors.   If you're looking for a good deal buy from your favorite dealers and establish "personal relationships".  In the end you'll be getting much more value for your money and likely be offered great pieces when available.  If status is more important to you, by all means go to these big auctions, be seen, and proudly keep your paddle high in the air until the hammer falls...

Tribalmania