A remarkable collection of modern and contemporary art, amassed by the Belgian couple Roger and Josette Vanthournout, has sold for a staggering €56 million (approximately £48.2 million) at a Christie’s auction in London. The sale, which concluded on Friday, showcased works by renowned artists including René Magritte, Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró, captivating collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide. The Vanthournouts, known for their understated lifestyle despite owning the successful furniture company Vanthournout, reportedly never prioritized profit from their collection, instead focusing on a deep personal appreciation for the art itself.
The auction, titled “Modern Visionaries – The Roger and Josette Vanthournout Collection,” featured over 100 pieces, representing a carefully curated selection spanning several decades. The total realized amount significantly exceeded pre-sale estimates, which ranged between €38 million and €50 million, demonstrating the exceptional quality and desirability of the works. The success of the auction underscores the continued strength of the art market and the enduring appeal of modern masters. According to Christie’s, the sale attracted bidders from over 30 countries.
A Lifetime of Collecting
Roger and Josette Vanthournout built their collection over several decades, beginning in the 1960s. Their approach was characterized by a discerning eye and a commitment to acquiring pieces that resonated with them personally. The couple, who founded the Vanthournout furniture company in Izegem, Belgium, were not driven by investment motives, but rather by a genuine passion for art. “Profit was never their intention,” a source close to the family stated, emphasizing the couple’s dedication to the aesthetic and cultural value of the works.
The collection is particularly notable for its strong representation of Belgian Surrealism, with several important works by René Magritte taking center stage. Magritte’s painting, “Le Paysage,” sold for £6.1 million (approximately €7.2 million), becoming a highlight of the auction. Other notable sales included works by Picasso, Miró, and Belgian artist Paul Delvaux. The diversity of the collection reflects the Vanthournouts’ broad artistic interests and their willingness to explore different styles and movements.
Key Sales from the Auction
The auction saw fierce bidding on several key pieces, driving prices well above estimates. Here’s a snapshot of some of the top-selling works:
- René Magritte, “Le Paysage”: £6.1 million (€7.2 million)
- Joan Miró, “Peinture”: £3.8 million (€4.5 million)
- Paul Delvaux, “Les Musiciens”: £2.5 million (€2.9 million)
The strong performance of these works demonstrates the enduring appeal of these artists and the quality of the Vanthournout collection. Christie’s specialists noted the exceptional provenance of the pieces, adding to their value and desirability. The auction house described the collection as “a testament to the discerning eye and passionate collecting of Roger and Josette Vanthournout.”
Impact and Legacy
The sale of the Vanthournout collection marks a significant moment for the Belgian art world. The proceeds from the auction will be used to benefit the couple’s estate, and the dispersal of these important works will allow them to be enjoyed by collectors and institutions around the globe. The auction also highlights the growing international interest in Belgian art and the country’s rich cultural heritage. The Vanthournouts’ legacy as passionate collectors and patrons of the arts will undoubtedly endure.
Looking ahead, the dispersal of the Vanthournout collection is expected to influence the market for modern and contemporary art, particularly works by Belgian artists. Collectors will be closely watching for opportunities to acquire similar pieces, and museums may seek to expand their holdings of Belgian Surrealism and other movements represented in the collection. The auction serves as a reminder of the power of art to inspire, enrich, and endure.
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