The Most Famous Portrait Paintings

Some of the world’s most famous artists are more commonly known for their detailed portraits of human subjects. Portrait paintings provide the artist with the opportunity to depict a story within the subject’s expressions. Although the meaning behind the portrait may not always be apparent, what makes most of them famous is the open interpretation of the emotions and inner thoughts of the subject. Here are some of history’s most recognizable faces.

Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci

Not surprisingly, the Louvre’s invaluable portrait would make this list. Leonardo da Vinci’s portrait of a merchant’s wife, Lisa Gherardini, is perceived as the most famous piece of art in history. Originally commissioned by the merchant as a gift for his consort, da Vinci ended up keeping the Mona Lisa for the remainder of his life. When is passed away in 1519, the painting then fell into place in various French Palaces, including that of Napoleon Bonaparte, until finding it’s permanent resting place in the Louvre.

Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer

Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer was one of the most well-known artists of his time. The painting is often referred to as the “Dutch Mona Lisa” appearing a little more than 100 years after Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece. One of the most enticing aspects of the painting is that very little is known about the model that is depicted. Viewers are fascinated with the mystery and like to speculate a story behind Vermeer’s subject. Modern-day entertainment has since written novels and movies about the peculiar girl.

Le Rêve (The Dream) by Pablo Picasso

Known for his modern cubism style of painting, Pablo Picasso has a unique style that has made him one of the most famous painters in history. Le Rêve is a portrait of his 22-year old mistress at the time, Marie-Thérèse Walter. Picasso often painted her using bright colors, evoking pleasant emotions in the interpretation of their relationship. Picasso was not one to shy away from expressing emotions in his work that others would not be inclined to.

American Gothic by Grant Wood

Since it was painted in 1930, the relationship of the subjects of Wood’s most famous work has been discussed by art lovers across the world. In fact, the man who modeled for the painting is Wood’s dentist, and the woman is his sister. The two had an unusual connection for portrait subjects in that they were strangers to one another. Grant Wood was intentional about choosing subjects that he could imagine living in the Dribble House in Iowa, which served as his inspiration for the painting.

This article was originally published on EtienneKiss-Borlase.ch

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15 Essential Terms to Know When Art Auctioning

Auctioning can sometimes resemble a sporting match in terms of competitiveness and intensity. Understanding the most basic principles of art auctioning will allow any individual to excel once provided with the opportunity to bid on artwork. Here are 15 terms to keep in mind as you participate in this process. 

Appraisal- The market value assigned to an item by the house specialists.

As is- The item is sold in its current condition, with imperfections and faults at the time of auction.

Auctioneer- The conductor of the auction, usually a trained professional, can be a man or woman. They are usually known for their ability to fetch outstanding prices for items, even in the stingiest of crowds. Auctioneer’s use many different styles that are catered to specific demographics.

Bid- The amount a prospective buyer signals he/she would like to pay for the item currently being auctioned.

Bought In- Art that fails to sell and gets returned to the consignor.

Buyer’s Premium- The fee that the auction house adds to the hammer price of an item, usually a percentage from 10-20%.

Conditions Report- Description of the item up for auction, usually prepared by a specialist.

Consignor- The party responsible for putting the piece up for auction. Can stem from the three D’s known as Divorce, Death and or Debt.

Exhibition History- A complete history of all exhibitions in which an item as appeared. Exhibit history may affect the value of the item.

Hammer Price- The final and winning bid, gets its name from the gavel when it comes down upon completion of an auction.

Increment- The amount by which the next bid must surpass the previous bid.

Protecting a Market- When a dealer places a bid on behalf of an artist to assure that the market value of an artist does not fall. Major artists usually expect this type of financial protection from dealers.

Reserve- The minimum price that a consignor will allow the item to be sold for. If the reserve is not met then the work will be bought in.

Sell Through Rate- The percentage compiled to assess how the auction performed. Rates below 75% are considered to be underperforming.

White Glove Sale-  An auction in with a 100% sell through rate. A party usually ensues after.

Even with basic knowledge of these terms, any beginner can approach a sale at the auction house with confidence and ease.