T his November, Sotheby’s is delighted to present a superb selection of Irish art across two sale categories, our Modern British & Irish Art live sale and our Irish Art online sale. The Irish works are highlighted by an important group of 17 paintings from The Collection of Sir Michael Smurfit. Across both sales, over 70 Irish lots will be offered spanning the 19th century to the present day. Ireland’s most famous painters are featured, including Jack B. Yeats, John Lavery, William Orpen, Paul Henry, Louis le Brocquy and Gerard Dillon, alongside a diverse selection of works by exciting contemporary artists, many making their auction debut.
Jack B. Yeats holds a place within the Irish collective conscience unrivalled by any other artist. His poetic visions of Ireland – of places and people – played a critical role in shaping Ireland’s cultural identity through the 20th century, and which continues to be felt. His remarkable output, which only increased and intensified as the years progressed, has resulted in an extraordinary body of work. 2021 is the 150th anniversary of Yeats’ birth and to celebrate the occasion, the National Gallery of Ireland are currently staging a major exhibition of his paintings. Alongside this, our sales include a rich variety of works across Yeats' career, from early illustrations to late oils, which further pay tribute to this singular artist.
Our sale features a rich selection of works by leading contemporary artists in Ireland. Across paintings, sculpture, ceramics and pottery, the works show the dynamic landscape among Irish artists today.
Dublin Thursday 11 November 12 noon – 5pm By appointment only. | London Thursday 18 November 9am – 4.30pm |
