As the fall 2024 auction calendar kicks off, we round up the key lots that have auctioned this September.
Held 25 September at Sotheby’s London, the Prints & Multiples sale was heralded by the stellar performance of Andy Warhol’s Flowers portfolio from 1970. Featuring 10 prints clad in various bold color combinations, each signed in ball-point pen on the reverse and sharing the same number from the edition, the set hammered in at just over $1.6M USD. Such a strong portfolio performance signals the longevity of the Warhol prints market in general signaling renewed interest in classic imagery by the artist in volume. Sets reign supreme now and in future. 
Phillips’s Evening & Day Editions In London, held across two days on the 19-20 September, demonstrated how unique warhol trial proofs will always hold their value. Leading the charge as the top Warhol lot, was a moody Birth of Venus Trial Proof in blue. Absolutely shattering through the high estimate of $200k USD achieving $328k USD we are happy to witness some consistency across the Warhol prints market - another Birth of Venus Trial Proof in yellow sold for $325k USD earlier in April. 
Following an upward trend in demand, warhol's Endangered Species Trial Proof Rhinoceros hammered in comfortably just atop the high estimate of $239k USD at $250k USD and some change.
A normally rare to market, Alexander The Great Trial Proof in fantastic hues of purple and green hit an auction record after selling for $185k USD - the most that has ever been seen so far to date for this image. Could a renaissance be brewing for Warhol’s late career works honoring Italy? 
A Mobil Trial Proof from Ads rolled in at $160k USD, hitting just the top of the estimate. Meanwhile, the Mother and Child Trial Proof from Cowboys and Indians decidedly blew through the high estimate of $46k USD, bringing in $84k USD. A taste for the rugged individualism of the American West warhol captured long ago seems in full effect.
Phillips' latest Editions Sale also showcased the stunning appeal of David Hockney's work, particularly his renowned piece The 14 of March, from The Arrival of Spring in Woldgate, East Yorkshire in 2011, which sold for $238,000. This captivating artwork exemplifies Hockney's masterful use of color and light, making it one of the most sought-after pieces in the contemporary art market.
Another standout piece later in the Spring Series, The 30th of April, from The Arrival of Spring in Woldgate, East Yorkshire in 2011, achieved an impressive $255,000. This series continues to stand out as one of his highest-achieving collections, celebrated for its remarkable scale and vibrant colors. The works masterfully capture the essence of changing seasons, inviting viewers to experience the transformation of nature through Hockney's unique lens.
