Stories
Eroticon by Celebrated Greek Artist Yiannis Moralis Sells for Over Half a Million Euros
BY MARK ANDERSON
Yiannis Moralis’ renowned artwork, Eroticon, achieved a remarkable milestone at Bonhams Greek Sale in Paris, fetching €559,200 and doubling its pre-sale estimate. The sale, which took place this April, was a resounding success, showcasing the enduring appeal of Greek art and the immense talent of its artists.
The Greek Sale, a collaborative effort between Bonhams in London and Paris and Art Expertise in Athens, featured a diverse collection of Greek artworks that drew significant attention from collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide. Terpsichore Angelopoulou, Director of Art Expertise, expressed her satisfaction with the sale’s outcomes, highlighting the fierce bidding battles both in the saleroom and online. “I am not surprised that the bidding was so intense, especially for Moralis’ and Tsarouchis’ masterpieces, which sold for such impressive prices,” she said.
Yiannis Moralis, a master of geometric abstraction, has long been celebrated for his contributions to modern Greek art. Born on April 23, 1916, in Arta, Greece, Moralis developed an early passion for painting. His journey began with Sunday classes at the Athens School of Fine Arts, guided by his father, and continued under the tutelage of renowned painters such as Yiannis Yeorgopoulos and Dimitris Yeraniotis.
Moralis’ talent was evident from a young age, and his dedication to his craft earned him numerous accolades. In 1932, he gained critical acclaim at the Athens School of Fine Arts Students Exhibition. His education continued at the École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris, where he studied painting and fresco techniques. However, the outbreak of World War II forced him to return to Athens, where he continued to develop his distinctive style.
Throughout his career, Moralis was involved in various artistic collaborations and exhibitions. In 1940, he participated in the last pre-war Panhellenic Exhibition, showcasing works such as “Nude” and “Portrait of Th. Ch.” During the years of the occupation, he focused on portraiture to sustain himself, while continuously striving for artistic growth.
The post-war years marked significant milestones for Moralis. In 1949, he co-founded the Armos group of artists, which included notable figures such as Yannis Tsarouchis and Nikos Nikolaou. His participation in exhibitions, both in Greece and internationally, further solidified his reputation as a leading figure in Greek art.
In 1958, Moralis’ work received international recognition when he participated in the Venice Biennale, impressing critics and the public alike. His compositions, characterized by their geometric abstraction and emotional depth, became highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts.
Eroticon, the top-selling lot at the recent Bonhams Greek Sale, exemplifies Moralis’ mastery of form and composition. The artwork’s sale at €559,200 underscores the enduring appeal and value of his work in the art market. As a testament to his legacy, Moralis’ contributions to modern Greek art continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Also Read
Francis Newton Souza’s Painting Sells for €1.47 Million
Story submitted by Bonhams. The World Art News (WAN) is not liable for the content of this publication. All statements and views expressed herein are opinions only. Act at your own risk. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. © The World Art News
The post Eroticon by Celebrated Greek Artist Yiannis Moralis Sells for Over Half a Million Euros appeared first on World Art News.