A Picasso masterpiece is currently exhibited in Dubai in anticipation of an upcoming auction later this year, known as ‘Femme à la montre,’ this artwork is estimated to be worth $120M and is being showcased at DIFC. After its stint in Dubai, it will travel to Hong Kong and London.
Subsequently, it will make its way back to New York, where it is set to be auctioned in November, with an estimated value exceeding $120M.
Picasso’s masterpiece in Dubai
This presents a unique occasion for art aficionados and collectors to view one of the most significant artworks of the twentieth century.
Purchased by Emily Fisher Landau in 1968, this significant acquisition has adorned the wall above her New York fireplace for over half a century.
This masterpiece is widely recognized as one of Picasso’s most exceptional creations, with its historical significance, size, subject matter, vibrancy, and provenance all contributing to its exceptional status.
Depicting Marie-Thérèse Walter, the artist’s beloved muse who inspired many of his finest portraits, this artwork was created in 1932, a year of such significance that it merited an entire museum exhibition (Tate Modern & Musée Picasso Paris 2018).
Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, the Minister of Culture and Youth, expressed:
“Throughout the years, the UAE has established itself as a prominent global art destination, and this rare Picasso unveiling further elevates that status.
“Art enthusiasts and collectors in the UAE will have the exclusive opportunity to view this masterpiece before it embarks on a worldwide tour.”
“We commend Sotheby’s for choosing the UAE as the first stop for the Picasso masterpiece, which returns for exhibition outside of America after 50 years.”
“Dubai’s hosting of the rare Picasso underscores its importance in attracting the best of art and its role in furthering the global art movement.”
“We welcome such endeavours that boost the local communities’ engagement with the international art world and help foster a stronger cultural and creative ecosystem.”
“It is a way to inform and educate the upcoming generation of artists about the power of creativity and the value it holds.”
“The flourishing art community in the nation owes its success to a blend of local and international influences. We are committed to further enhancing the global art landscape by fostering a culture of collaboration and exchange.”
Dr Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash on Picasso’s Masterpiece in Dubai
Dr Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, said: “The presentation of Picasso’s extraordinary masterpiece in Dubai underscores the UAE’s global significance and amplifies our commitment to nurturing a thriving art ecosystem.
“This exhibition enriches our cultural landscape and demonstrates our dedication to providing world-class artistic experiences to our local and international audiences.
“It also cements Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity and a thriving hub for talent, fostering a vibrant cultural scene that resonates across borders and celebrates art’s transformative power.”
Sotheby’s has consistently upheld its dedication to bringing the very best of its global offerings to the region for several years.
In 2020, Sotheby’s Dubai showcased an exceedingly rare Renaissance painting by Botticelli, which later achieved a record-breaking sale of $92.2M.
At that time, it marked the highest-valued painting ever brought to the Middle East by an auction house, according to Arabian Business.
Since then, Sotheby’s Dubai Gallery has displayed exceptional works by renowned artists such as Boetti, Wassily Kandinsky, Andy Warhol, and more.
Sotheby’s Dubai: Record Ruby and Pink Diamond Sales
Earlier this year, Sotheby’s Dubai also presented the record-breaking Estrela de Fura: a 55.22-carat ruby and the Eternal Pink diamond, which were exhibited in Dubai and sold in New York this summer for $34.8M each.
The unveiling of this Picasso surpasses the record set by Botticelli and represents the first occasion a painting of this calibre by the globally renowned artist has been showcased in the UAE.
This marks its first exhibition outside of the US in over 50 years and serves as the initial stop on its worldwide tour before its auction at Sotheby’s New York in early November as part of the Emily Fisher Landau collection, a trailblazing patron.
