A self-portrait by renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo is poised to make history at auction this November, with estimates suggesting it could sell for as much as $60 million. The painting, titled “El sueño (La cama),” is expected to surpass the current record for the highest price paid for a work by a female artist, which stands at $44.4 million for Georgia O’Keeffe’s “Jimson Weed/White Flower No. 1.”
The auction is scheduled for November 20, 2023, at Sotheby’s in London. Created in 1940, the piece features Kahlo reclining in a four-poster bed, a skeleton lying atop it, illustrating the artist’s unique approach to self-portraiture and her exploration of identity, mortality, and dreams. According to Julian Dawes, a Sotheby’s expert, the painting represents a psychological self-portrait from an artist operating at the height of her creative powers.
Rising Interest in Surrealism
The sale of Kahlo’s work is part of a larger auction event showcasing over 100 surrealist pieces, reflecting a growing interest in the surrealism genre. In recent years, the market share for surrealist art has seen significant increases, attracting collectors and investors alike. This trend underscores a broader resurgence in the appreciation for artists like Kahlo, who have left an indelible mark on the art world.
Kahlo’s influence continues to resonate, not only for her artistic talent but also for her powerful narrative surrounding personal struggles and cultural identity. As the auction approaches, anticipation builds not only for the potential record-breaking sale but also for the continued recognition of female artists in a historically male-dominated field.
With its estimated sale price, “El sueño (La cama)” is not just a piece of art but a testament to the evolving landscape of the art market and the enduring legacy of Frida Kahlo. Collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide are expected to closely monitor the auction, eager to see how this significant piece of art will perform on the global stage.
