The first-ever sale by an international auction house dedicated exclusively to a celebration of the male form in art takes place at Bonhams in London on June 16. It ranges from Antiquities and Old Master painting to sculpture and decorative arts, from contemporary art to photography.
The sale is curated by Bonhams Greek Art Specialist Anastasia Orfanidou and Bonhams Head of Books and Manuscripts, Matthew Haley, who said: “This exciting new concept challenges a market that has traditionally been centred around the western concept of the male gaze. It will explore how women look at men and how men look at other men, introducing a fresh context and platform that will spark new discussions on an historically unspoken market.”
Among the highlights is Atlas Beach by Patrick Hennessy (Irish, 1915-1980) which depicts the terrace of well-known gay bar The Charles Atlas Beach Bar, which overlooks Tangier City Beach, Morocco. It is estimated at £5,000-£7,000.
