Sotheby's to Offer Major Painting by Titian - 27 January 2011
A monumental work by the Renaissance master Titian will be offered early next year in Sotheby’s sale of Important Old Master Paintings in New York on 27 January 2011. A Sacra Conversazione: The Madonna and Child with Saints Luke and Catherine of Alexandria is one of only a handful of multi-figured compositions by the 16th century artist remaining in private hands, and the most important to appear at auction since 1991. Painted circa 1560, it is a mature work executed when Titian was at the height of his powers. The artist had established his reputation as the leading artist of his time and was courted by monarchs and emperors over the course of his long career. His profound use of color and innovation of both technique and subject matter have made him one of the most influential figures in the history of Western art.
A Sacra Conversazione: The Madonna and Child with Saints Luke and Catherine of Alexandria will be shown the public for the first time in more than 30 years beginning today in New York. Later this autumn, it will also be exhibited in Sotheby’s Paris, Amsterdam and London galleries. Demonstrating many of the hallmarks of Titian’s later works, the painting is estimated to sell for $15/20 million.
