Divine Comedy Opens at Sotheby's in New York - On View Until 19 October 2010
Today at Sotheby’s in New York, Divine Comedy, an exhibition that investigates the comedic side of art from ancient times to today through the lens of Dante’s epic poem, opens to the public. Drawing on Sotheby’s expertise across many different collecting categories and time periods, the exhibition of approximately 80 works places Contemporary art in dialogue with Antiquities, African Art, Old Master paintings, 19th Century European art, Modern and Surrealist works, Latin American paintings and 20th Century Design.
Following the journey Dante takes in the Divine Comedy, visitors to the exhibition will travel through Inferno, Purgatory and Paradise, exploring how for centuries artists have harnessed the power of humor in their work. An undercurrent of wit and satire, often tinged with irreverence, will be the hallmark of the art that is presented. The Inferno will highlight the darker, more horrific side of humor. The exhibition includes works both on loan and for sale, which have been drawn from a community of private collectors, foundations, artists, and dealers and will be open to the public through 19 October.