In times of economic uncertainty, buyers turn to art
Bukowskis’ Classic Sale in Helsinki offered several lots of exceptional interest. Both Finnish and Russian art and handicraft were in high demand and the excitement in the auction room was palpable, an excitement which was also reflected in the high prices.
Many buyers chose to place their bids online through Bukowskis’ live bidding service.
A sensational Schjerfbeck
The big sensation of the auction was a captivating portrait in oil and mixed media by Helene Schjerfbeck. Here, the artist has painted one of her favorite models, her little maid, Katri. At the time Katri was only eight years old and we can feel how proud she was of her role as a model. The work was sold for € 366 000 after intense bidding, tripling its estimate of € 120 000. “ It was a great honour and a pleasure to handle the sale of such a unique work of art” said Christian Boman, CEO of Bukowskis Finland.
Finnish art attracts buyers
The Finnish masters are in high demand. One of the most sought-after artists at the sale was Oscar Kleineh whose idyllic painting “View of Eteläsatama” sold for 97 000 € (estimate € 50 000), Pekka Halonen’s beatiful “Winter landscape” from 1917 went for € 53 000 (estimate € 22 000) and Akseli Gallen-Kallela’s humorous portrait “After the party” changed owners for € 51 000 (estimate € 25 000). Ellen Thesleff’s sensitve painting “Reflections” from 1942, sold for € 63 000 (estimate € 20 000) and Maria Wiik’s exotic “Dancer” rose to € 45 000, (estimate € 20 000).
Russian art and handicraft in great demand
The Russian art market is strong and very much alive, with works by Russian masters reaching high prices. Ivan Aivazovski’s magnificent “Ships near the coast” sold for € 80 000 (estimate € 40 000). Nikolay Krymov’s small but captivating painting “On the bridge” rose to € 35 000 (estimate € 12 000).
Silver is hot and a tea and coffee service by Fabergé reached € 34 000 (estimate € 15 000).
A brooch, also signed Fabergé, that was designed for the 40th anniversary of Nobel’s mechanical works sold for € 17 000 (estimate € 6 000).
The wars medals of a legendary Mannerheim knight
The collection of 18 war medals that Colonel Auno Kuiri had been awarded during an exceptionally distinguished career were sold for € 30 000.
The legendary Colonel Auno Kuiri (1897-1978) was one of Finland’s greatest war heroes during WWII. Kuiri and his men fought in almost all of the important battles in Finland during the war. At the battle of Viborg, Kuiri’s batallion destroyed more ennemy tanks than the rest of the regiment’s batalions together.
In 1944, Colonel Kuiri was awarded the Mannerheim Cross no 128. The medal was awarded to soldiers who had shown exceptional bravery and presence of mind during battle. Only 191 soldiers have been award this high distinction.
New technology leads to high prices
Bukowskis offer arange of online services that are unique in Finland. Apart from Bukowskis Market’s daily online auctions, it is also possible to participate in the traditional hammer sales online, a service that many buyers find extremely appealing. You can place a bid in real time,in the comfort of your home or from your office anywhere in the world, while sharing in the excitement of the sale on your screen.
“We are very pleased that so many buyers have enjoy this service. Today, placing a bid is easier than ever, the number of prospecive buyers has grown immensely which is also reflected in the high prices” says Johan Engström, COO of Bukowskis Finland.
(sales prices include buyer’s premium)