Explore masterpieces from the pioneers of Modernism, including Oskar Kokoschka, Willi Baumeister, Kurt Schwitters, and Alexej von Jawlensky. Active in a time of profound artistic transformation, these artists explored bold approaches, laying the foundation for a new visual language in the 20th century.

Explore masterpieces from the Modern period

Modern Highlights

Experience standout works by leading contemporary artists whose visions and innovative approaches reflect the dynamic landscape of today’s art world. From bold visual statements to conceptual depth, these pieces capture the spirit of our time and push the boundaries of artistic expression.

Contemporary Highlights

Delve into intimate expressions of identity, emotion, and the human condition by modern and contemporary masters.

Uncover the power of the human gaze in portraits that capture character, emotion, and timeless presence.

The Art of Portraiture

Discover vibrant interpretations of nature through floral and botanical motifs, where artists capture the beauty, fragility, and symbolism of the natural world in modern and contemporary works.

A closer look at floral, botanic and natural motifs in modern and contemporary art.

Botanics in Focus

Photography is increasingly sought after by a new generation of collectors, drawn to its immediacy and narrative power. This selection brings together compelling works by contemporary photographers whose perspectives reflect the landscape of image-making today. From architectural compositions to portraits, these pieces offer accessible entry points into one of the most dynamic fields of contemporary art.

Discover striking perspectives through the lens of contemporary photography.

Photographic Expression 

Abstraction opens up new ways of seeing and feeling beyond the figurative. This compilation brings together striking works that explore colour, shape, and composition by significant artists such as Ulrich Erben, Antonio Corpora, and Max Ackermann.

A celebration of form, colour, and composition.

The Power of Abstraction

This chapter presents highlights from acclaimed artists such as Damian Hirst, Imi Knoebel, and Gerhard Marcks, showcasing a range of contemporary and modern works. With variety across categories, it offers an excellent opportunity for young collectors to acquire significant pieces and build their collections.

Discover a curated selection of 10 artworks, each under €10,000.

10 below 10

Cologne

Head of Sales | Modern & Contemporary Art

Valentin Woltmann

Pre-Sale Manager | Modern & Contemporary Art

Katrin Mundy

Pre-Sale Coordinator | Modern & Contemporary Art

Valérie Lienhart

Meet our Specialists

Sotheby’s Cologne offices, located in the Palais Oppenheim on the Bel Étage, offer the perfect backdrop for exhibitions of art and luxury goods from across the entire auction spectrum, as well as hosting Buy Now and Private sales.

For assistance with bidding and registration, please contact: DE +49 (0) 221 207 170 UK +44 (0)207 293 5283 
 
 <a class="Link" href="mailto:bids.germany@sothebys.com">bids.germany@sothebys.com</a>

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As the highlight of the spring/summer online season in Cologne, the Modern and Contemporary Discoveries sale presents a dynamic selection of works by celebrated national and international artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Showcasing a mix of paintings, photographs, works on paper and sculptures, the auction offers an exceptional opportunity to acquire pieces by some of today’s most sought-after modern and contemporary names. We warmly invite you to explore and participate in this sale. The sale opens for Bidding on 28 May at 14:00 CET and will close on 5 June from 14:00 CET.