A rare painting by David Hockney depicting one of his beloved dachshunds is heading to auction for the first time, with an estimated value of up to £2.5 million.
The British artist’s affection for his two dachshunds, Stanley and Boodgie, inspired him to make them the focus of a series of works during the mid-1990s.
Just months after Hockney’s death at the age of 88, one of the portraits from that period is due to go under the hammer at Christie’s, according to the Guardian.
‘Exceptional’ rarity
“This painting is incredibly exciting for us,” said Tessa Lord, head of Christie’s Post-War and Contemporary Art department.
“Its rarity is really exceptional,” she added.
The work, entitled Dog Painting 17, shows Stanley curled up on a cushion and fast asleep.
It is estimated to fetch between £1.5 million and £2.5 million.
The painting was one of more than 40 works Hockney created in 1994 and 1995 for his Dog Series.
Stanley became Hockney’s constant companion
Stanley, who was named after comedian Stan Laurel, was chosen by Hockney as a puppy in 1987 and subsequently accompanied the artist almost everywhere.
According to Christie’s, only six paintings from the Dog Series remain in private collections, with the remainder belonging to the David Hockney Foundation.
Auction set for Frieze Week
Dog Painting 17 will be auctioned on 14 October as part of Frieze Week, London’s major annual art event.
Ahead of the sale, the painting will go on public display at Christie’s in London from 8 October, with admission free of charge.
Source: ANA-MPA
