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Jean-Etienne Liotard and a 20-year breakfast
From 16 November 2023 to 3 March 2024, the National Gallery of London presents “Discover Liotard’s ‘The Lavergne Family Breakfast’”, an exhibition that reunites the pastel masterpiece by Swiss artist Jean-Etienne Liotard (1702–1789), painted in Lyon in 1754, with the painted version in oil he completed in London almost 20 years later.
Source: The National Gallery · Image: Jean-Etienne Liotard, ‘The Lavergne Family Breakfast’, 1754
The exhibition will introduce viewers to the delicate medium of pastel, showcasing both the raw materials and a selection of Liotard’s highly finished works in pastel. The reunion of the pastel and oil works by Liotard will also allow visitors to appreciate and compare the different techniques and effects of both mediums.
Long regarded as his masterpiece both by art historians and by Liotard himself, The Lavergne Family Breakfast entered the National Gallery’s collection in 2019 from the estate of George Pinto (1929–2018), art collector and patron of the Gallery, under the Acceptance-in-Lieu scheme. Last exhibited when Liotard brought the pastel from Lyon to London in 1754, it had not been seen in public since.
Executed across more than nine sheets of paper, ‘The Lavergne Family Breakfast’ is Liotard’s largest and most ambitious pastel. It depicts a breakfast between an elegantly dressed woman and a young girl, whose hair is still in paper curlers. Between the two lies a luxurious breakfast still life. Although not strictly a portrait, the sitters have long been associated with relatives of Liotard’s, the Lavergne family, who lived in Lyon.
The exhibition will also focus on Liotard’s place within the 18th-century. Liotard travelled widely, crossing Europe several times throughout his career. He spent four formative years in Constantinople, after which he donned Turkish clothes, grew a knee-length beard and presented himself as ‘the Turkish painter’. A group of black and red chalk drawings made on his travels will illustrate these journeys, while a selection of self portraits in different media will bring this quirkiest of 18th-century artists to life. Alongside Liotard’s own travels, the journeys implicit in the enjoyment of coffee, sugar and Japanese porcelain seen in the picture will also be examined.
Exploring the pastel medium, Liotard’s itinerant career, and the stories behind the objects he depicts, this exhibition seeks to put Liotard and The Lavergne Family Breakfast in the spotlight.
BY MARK ANDERSON
For many the allure of the contemporary art is unparalleled. The moment you acquire your first piece, you step into a world brimming with cutting-edge creativity, modern expressions, and a vibrant pulse on the current artistic landscape. One notable example is the sale of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s “Untitled” in 2017, which fetched a staggering $110.5 million at Sotheby’s auction, highlighting the growing recognition and value of contemporary artists.
Embarking on your exploration of high-end contemporary art necessitates a comprehensive immersion into this sophisticated realm. Commence your journey by dedicating time to rigorous research, delving into the multifaceted layers of the contemporary art landscape. Leverage online platforms of distinction, exemplified by acclaimed resources like Artsy, to access a reservoir of knowledge pertaining to emerging artists, prevailing artistic trends, and insightful market analyses. These digital repositories serve as invaluable tools, offering a nuanced understanding of the ever-evolving dynamics within the contemporary art scene.
Simultaneously, consider engaging with esteemed institutions and reputable galleries that epitomize excellence in the curation and promotion of high-end contemporary art. Establishments of note, exemplified by entities like Eden Gallery, transcend conventional exhibition spaces to function as discerning mentors. Enlist their expertise as a guiding force, providing you with an in-depth comprehension of the intricacies inherent to the art world. Navigating through the diverse array of artistic expressions and conceptual frameworks demands a curated approach, and these venerable galleries stand poised to illuminate your path with refined insights and profound knowledge.
The Power of Personal Connection
While online resources are invaluable, there’s no substitute for personal experience. Visit galleries, art fairs, and exhibitions focused on high-end contemporary art. Engage with artists, curators, and fellow enthusiasts to enhance your understanding and develop a profound connection to the art you’re passionate about. The annual Art Basel fair serves as a global hub for contemporary art, where personal interactions with artists and industry insiders can significantly enrich your perspective.
Master the Art of Negotiation
Negotiation is an art in itself. Galleries specializing in high-end contemporary art often have flexibility in pricing. Don’t shy away from haggling, but approach it respectfully. An illustrative example is the negotiation process involved in the acquisition of Yayoi Kusama’s “Infinity Mirrored Room” installations, where collectors often engage in intricate negotiations due to the high demand for these immersive contemporary artworks.
Fostering Lasting Relationships
Building relationships within the high-end contemporary art community is invaluable. Art advisers, curators, and fellow collectors can offer insights, recommend emerging artists, and help you make informed decisions. A noteworthy example is the collaboration between the artist Damien Hirst and his long-time gallerist Larry Gagosian, showcasing how enduring relationships contribute to the success and recognition of contemporary artists.
Embrace the Digital Revolution
In today’s interconnected world, digital platforms are revolutionizing the high-end contemporary art market. Online marketplaces offer an extensive selection, breaking down geographical barriers. A cautionary example is the proliferation of NFT (Non-Fungible Token) art sales, such as Beeple’s “Everydays: The First 5000 Days,” which sold for $69 million, showcasing the transformative impact of digital platforms on the valuation and sale of contemporary artworks.
The Significance of Authenticity and Condition
Authenticity remains the cornerstone of any high-end contemporary art purchase. Insist on a certificate of authenticity, a guarantee that the artwork is genuine and has a documented history. Two relevant instances underscore the challenges in this realm. The first involves the controversy surrounding the authenticity and condition of Leonardo da Vinci’s “Salvator Mundi.” The attribution and restoration of this masterpiece sparked debates among art historians and collectors, highlighting the complexity of ensuring transparency and preservation in high-profile contemporary art acquisitions. The second instance revolves around the authentication of works by artist Keith Haring, where disputes among experts and legal battles underscore the importance of clear provenance in contemporary art. These examples illuminate the intricate nature of navigating authenticity concerns within the realm of high-end contemporary art.
The Art of Valuation
Determining the value of high-end contemporary art is a nuanced process. Consider factors such as the artist’s reputation, the relevance of the artwork to contemporary discourse, and the use of cutting-edge techniques or materials. An exemplary case is the valuation of Jeff Koons’ “Balloon Dog,” which sold for $58.4 million, reflecting the market’s recognition of the artist’s impact on contemporary art.
Art Investment Strategies in Contemporary Art
Touch upon the concept of contemporary art as an investment, providing a brief overview of different investment strategies within this dynamic market. A pertinent example is the rise of art investment funds like The Fine Art Group, showcasing how investors strategically navigate the contemporary art market for financial returns.
Navigating the Pitfalls
The world of high-end contemporary art, dynamic as it is, has its share of pitfalls. Understanding provenance is crucial. A gallery’s reluctance to provide provenance or a certificate of authenticity should raise red flags. An infamous case involves the Knoedler Gallery scandal, where forged contemporary artworks were sold, underscoring the importance of due diligence in the art-buying process.
Diversity in Contemporary Art Movements
Acknowledge the diversity in contemporary art movements and styles. Encourage readers to explore different forms of contemporary art, from conceptual installations to digital media. An illustrative example is Olafur Eliasson’s “The Weather Project” at Tate Modern, emphasizing the immersive and experiential nature of contemporary art installations.
Contemporary Art Education Programs
Recommend contemporary art education programs or workshops where enthusiasts can deepen their understanding of current artistic trends, techniques, and critical discourse. Continuous learning is essential to staying attuned to the ever-evolving landscape of high-end contemporary art. Notable institutions like the Saatchi Gallery often host educational events, fostering a deeper appreciation for contemporary artistic practices.
By arming yourself with knowledge, embracing personal experiences, and fostering genuine connections, you can confidently navigate the intricate world of high-end contemporary art. Reputable galleries like Eden serve as your trusted companions, ensuring that your art-buying journey is not only successful but also deeply fulfilling. As you embark on this odyssey, remember: the masterpiece you seek is not just a piece of art; it’s a narrative waiting to unfold, and you are the fortunate storyteller. Happy collecting!
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