A bronze sculpture of a young Princess Macha – which was part of an extensive collection by the late music legend David Bowie – has gone under the hammer.
It was one of three works by the renowned Banbridge born sculptor Frederick Edward McWilliam which caused a stir when they went before leading London auction house Sotheby’s recently.
The sale of the artworks was of interest not just to those in the the art world, but also the world of music and pop culture, as the pieces in question formed part of a collection owned by the sadly-missed Bowie.
The iconic performer, who died in January aged 69, was renowned for having an ear for penning a classic tune.
But he also had a keen eye for appreciating fine art.
An avid yet secretive collector, Bowie amassed a vast private collection of artwork including pieces by Damien Hirst, Henry Moore and Marcel Duchamp – as well as McWilliam.
At auction the three bronze sculpture pieces reached far and above their estimated amount.
‘Study Princess Macha I’ had an estimate set at £12,000 – £18,000 and was sold for £22,500.
‘Girl on Edge of Bed II’ was estimated to go for £6,000 – £8,000 and reached a total of £27,500.
And ‘Kneeling Girl II’ – also estimated at £6,000 – £8,000 – attracted an astounding final bid of £33,750!
The popularity of the three pieces outlines the importance of FE McWilliam’s work and his recognition within the art fraternity as one of the most influential and collectable sculptors, not just in Ireland but worldwide.
The FE McWilliam Gallery and Studio in Banbridge houses a permanent display of the artist’s work and also features a replica of his studio as well as hosting exhibitions by leading national and international contemporary artists.
The gallery attracts many thousands of visitors each year who can enjoy and appreciate the work of this great artist.
For further information on the FE McWilliam Gallery and Studio contact 028 4062 3322 or email info@femcwilliam.com or go to www.femcwilliam.com.
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