A Historic Return to the Art Market
Long before he became one of the world’s most celebrated Latin American artists, Fernando Botero sold his first artwork for two packets of cigarettes. This early transaction marked the beginning of a journey that would lead him to become one of the most influential and instantly recognizable figures in the art world.
More than seven decades later, and almost three years after his passing at the age of 91, that youthful watercolour is making its return to the art market. The piece, titled La Plegaria and painted in 1949, is considered the first work Botero ever sold. It will be part of an auction organized by Bogotá Auctions on 21 May, which will also feature more than 120 works of modern and contemporary Colombian and Latin American art.
Botero was a towering figure in the Latin American art scene, known for his distinctive style characterized by exaggerated volumes and monumental figures. His work has left an indelible mark on the global art landscape, with pieces fetching millions of euros at international auctions.
A Glimpse into Botero’s Formative Years
As the auction house explains, the watercolour belongs to the formative period of the Colombian painter and sculptor. “In this piece, the pursuit of volume that would come to characterise Botero’s later work is not yet evident,” the house notes. The painting depicts an elderly peasant praying, his hands clasped to his mouth and his eyes closed. Behind him, a woman shelters a child while lifting towards the sky a gaze filled with fear and dread.
This piece was created just a year after the assassination of Colombian Liberal leader Jorge Eliécer Gaitán, an event that triggered a wave of political violence in Colombia. At the time, Botero was a teenager, around 17 years old, and far from the international fame he would eventually achieve. The work reflects the turbulent times in which he lived, capturing the emotional weight of a nation in turmoil.
The painting was later exchanged with Efrén Ossa, who is regarded as a pioneer of insurance law in Colombia. This anecdote stands in stark contrast to the astronomical prices Botero’s work commands today, where his paintings and sculptures have sold for millions of euros.
Additional Highlights of the Auction
The auction will also include the oil on canvas Girl with Flowers (1960), a piece from a transitional period that marks the evolution of Botero’s signature style. This work represents a pivotal moment in his artistic development, bridging the earlier forms of his work with the bold, voluminous figures that would define his later career.
In addition to Botero’s contributions, the auction will feature works by other leading names in Latin American art, including Alejandro Obregón, Débora Arango, Beatriz González, Luis Caballero, Ana Mercedes Hoyos, and Óscar Muñoz. These artists have each made significant contributions to the cultural and artistic heritage of the region.
A Celebration of Latin American Art
The auction serves as a celebration of the rich and diverse artistic legacy of Colombia and Latin America. It offers collectors and art enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire pieces that reflect the historical and cultural significance of the region. From Botero’s early works to the masterpieces of other renowned artists, the sale promises to be a landmark event in the art world.
This event not only highlights the enduring impact of these artists but also underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating the artistic heritage of Latin America. As the auction approaches, anticipation grows for the unique pieces that will be presented and the stories they carry.
