Leonora Carrington's Surrealist Masterpiece Sells for Record $28M

A painting by the British surrealist artist Leonora Carrington has set a new auction record, selling for $28.5 million at Sotheby’s in New York. The artwork, titled "Les Distractions de Dagobert," was created in 1945 and was expected to fetch between $12 million and $18 million. However, after a competitive 10-minute bidding war, it far exceeded those estimates, marking a significant moment in the recognition of Carrington's contributions to art and the surrealist movement.

Carrington, who spent much of her life in Mexico, is now celebrated as the most valuable British-born female artist at auction. The recent sale underscores a growing appreciation for women artists who were historically overlooked, particularly those associated with the surrealist movement. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the publication of the Surrealist Manifesto, a foundational text that helped define the movement, which sought to explore the interplay between dreams and reality.

The winning bidder, Eduardo F. Costantini, a prominent Argentine businessman and founder of a museum dedicated to Latin American art, described the painting as “one of the most admired works in the history of surrealism and an unparalleled masterpiece of Latin American art.” He plans to include it in a collection that features works by other notable artists, including Frida Kahlo.

"Les Distractions de Dagobert" is recognized as a defining masterpiece of Carrington's career, showcasing her unique visual language that blends rich surreal imagery with vibrant colors. The painting is said to reflect the four elements—earth, air, fire, and water—through a series of meticulously crafted vignettes. The title references Dagobert, a Merovingian king known for his indulgent lifestyle, which aligns with the painting's themes of excess and fantasy.

Carrington's journey as an artist began in England, where she was born in 1917 to a wealthy family. Her rebellious spirit led her to pursue art in Florence and later to Paris, where she became involved with the surrealist movement. She was initially celebrated as a muse by prominent surrealists but quickly established her own identity as a masterful artist. Her life took a tumultuous turn during World War II, leading to her relocation to Mexico, where she became part of a vibrant community of exiled surrealists.

The recent auction reflects a broader cultural shift towards recognizing the contributions of women artists in a field historically dominated by men. Allegra Bettini, head of Sotheby’s modern art evening sale, noted that the surge in interest in Carrington and her contemporaries signifies a significant change in how art history is perceived and valued. This trend has been echoed in recent exhibitions and auctions, where works by female surrealists have garnered unprecedented attention and prices.

Carrington's legacy continues to resonate, not only through her art but also through her advocacy for women's rights and empowerment. She once stated, “I didn’t have time to be anyone’s muse. I was too busy rebelling against my family and learning to be an artist.” Her works, which often explore themes of femininity and the subconscious, have become increasingly relevant in contemporary discussions about gender and representation in the arts.

As the art world celebrates this record-breaking sale, it also highlights the ongoing journey of rediscovering and valuing the contributions of women artists, particularly those who have shaped the surrealist movement. The auction of "Les Distractions de Dagobert" serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of artistic expression that continues to evolve and inspire future generations.