Bonhams is hoping to continue the recent success seen by old master works tomorrow (July 11), with 17 etchings from Rembrandt offered at its Prints auction in London.
 Bonhams hopes to continue old master success with its Rembrandt prints |
Rembrandt is undoubtedly the most important artist in Dutch history and is considered one of the world's greatest painters and printmakers. He produced his distinctive etchings for the majority of his career and is said to have printed many of the works himself.
The top lot of the Rembrandt works on offer is expected to be provided by an etching of Faust, created circa 1652. A magnificent depiction of the legendary German character making his deal with the devil, the print is rendered with a startling amount of detail and displays Rembrandt's characteristic mastery of light. A good impression of the second state of three, it is estimated to make £6,000-8,000 ($9,302-12,403).
Following this will be Self Portrait Drawing at a Window, with the print an impression of the fourth state of the eight known. Created in 1648, the portrait is a subtler, more understated effort compared to Rembrandt's other portraits, showing the artist in middle age staring sadly out of the picture. A captivating piece, it is expected to bring £4,000-6,000.
Now is a good time for old master works, with Christie's record-breaking sale of The Lock by John Constable among several key recent sales across the major auction houses. The respected Mei Moses Index reported a 5.4% increase in value for old master and 19th century artworks in the first half of 2012 - the highest of any major art sector.
Check back with us soon for the results from this sale and more of the latest from world of collecting.
