Abstract expressionist Willem de Kooning's Untitled VI is expected to bring $10m-15m in an upcoming contemporary art sale in New York on May 10, 2012.

Willem de Kooning's Untitled I will feature in Christie's sale

The 1975 piece represents the essence of de Kooning's work, displaying bold forms and mastery of colour. The auction house has described the painting as "one of the artist's greatest achievements of this period".

The auction house can expect strong results from the artist as de Kooning's work continually inspires excellent results at auction. In 2006, his Untitled XXV of 1977 brought $27.1m to a Christie's sale, becoming the most expensive post-war painting ever sold at auction.

In January 2012, de Kooning's masterful career was honoured with a retrospective containing nearly 200 of his finest works at the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Also in the sale is a fiercely expressive, possible self-portrait from Jean-Michel Basquiat. Painted in 1981, the artist's most productive year, the work bears all the characteristic traits of Basquiat's trademark style. The piece is estimated to bring $8m-12m.

The New York auction will be closely preceded by Christie's Post-War and Contemporary Art sale on May 8, which will host a further three Willem de Kooning works. 1980's Untitled I will feature in the Christie's auction with a pre-sale estimate of $8m-12m.

Contemporary art auctions have experienced an influx of buyers from more traditional art areas recently. Christies and Sotheby's contemporary art sales were up by 35% in 2011 according to a Bloomberg report.

For more advice on improving your contemporary art collection, Paul Fraser Collectibles' experts give you the best inside knowledge here.