Royal Portraits by Pop Art Icon Andy Warhol Set to Fetch a Royal Sum at Auction
A significant collection of artworks by the legendary Pop Art artist Andy Warhol, featuring two prominent female monarchs, is heading to auction, with experts predicting they could achieve substantial prices. Two striking portraits from Warhol’s celebrated “Reigning Queens” series are to be offered by the Danish auction house Bruun Rasmussen Arts Auctioneers later this month, drawing significant attention from collectors worldwide.
The pieces in question depict Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom and Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, both formidable figures who have left an indelible mark on modern history. The portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth II is based on an official photograph captured by Peter Grugeon at Windsor Castle in 1975. This iconic image was later released to commemorate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1977, a period of significant celebration for the British monarchy. The estimated sale price for this particular artwork is expected to range between a considerable £92,800 and £115,900, reflecting its historical significance and Warhol’s unique artistic interpretation.
Similarly, the portrait of Queen Margrethe II draws inspiration from the official coronation portrait taken by royal photographer Rigmor Mydtskov. This image followed the Danish monarch’s accession to the throne in 1972. This esteemed piece is forecast to achieve between £29,000 and £34,800 at auction.
Both queens are masterfully rendered in Warhol’s signature style, adorned with regal accoutrements. They are depicted wearing royal orders, sparkling tiaras, and ceremonial jewellery, embodying the grandeur and authority associated with their positions. The artworks showcase Warhol’s renowned silkscreen printing technique, a method that allowed him to translate photographic imagery into vibrant, graphic compositions, infused with his characteristic bold and vivid Pop Art palette.
A Tribute to Female Sovereigns
Kathrine Eriksen, a specialist in modern art at Bruun Rasmussen, expressed her excitement about presenting these remarkable works. “We are delighted to present these remarkable portraits of Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Margrethe II – two world-famous monarchs interpreted by Andy Warhol, the king of Pop Art who became an icon in his own right,” she stated.
The “Reigning Queens” series itself was conceived by Warhol in 1985 as a deliberate tribute to four reigning female monarchs who had inherited their thrones through birthright. In addition to Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Margrethe II, the series also featured Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands and Queen Ntombi Twala of Swaziland. This selection highlights Warhol’s keen interest in figures of power and influence, particularly those who held positions of significant status through lineage.
Eriksen further elaborated on the thematic depth of the series: “The Reigning Queens series encapsulates Warhol’s fascination with global fame, social hierarchy and the immense power of media imagery. Today, Warhol’s works are almost as legendary as the monarchs themselves, each of whom left an enduring mark on history.” Her words underscore the dual legacy captured within these artworks – the enduring impact of the queens and the iconic status of the artist who immortalised them.
The “Reigning Queens” Series: Editions and Legacy
Warhol’s series of royal portraits was produced in two distinct editions, catering to different collector preferences and market segments.
- Standard Edition: This comprised a more extensive run of 40 prints. These works, while still highly sought after, represent the broader accessibility of Warhol’s artistic vision.
- Royal Edition: This exclusive edition consisted of only 30 works. These pieces were further embellished with “diamond dust,” a special treatment involving crushed glass. This technique was designed to give the artworks a dazzling, reflective quality, causing them to sparkle brilliantly under light, adding an extra layer of opulence and exclusivity.
The prestige of the “Reigning Queens” series is further evidenced by its acquisition by prominent institutions. In 2012, four prints of Queen Elizabeth II from the Royal Edition were purchased by the Royal Collection. This acquisition was made to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, a significant milestone in her long reign, underscoring the series’ cultural and historical importance.
The live auction at Bruun Rasmussen is scheduled to commence on June 17, offering a prime opportunity for collectors to acquire these significant pieces of art history. The sale is anticipated to attract considerable interest, not only from those with a passion for Pop Art but also from individuals who appreciate the historical and cultural narratives woven into these iconic royal portraits. The enduring appeal of both Andy Warhol’s artistic genius and the powerful imagery of Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Margrethe II ensures these works will remain highly coveted for years to come.
