Ben Quilty: A Comparative Analysis of Auction Pricing and Market Potential
Want-Want-Want 2006, Oil & Aerosol on Canvas, 140 x 200cm
Ben Quilty has firmly established himself as a leading figure in contemporary Australian art, renowned for his bold, expressive works that often challenge societal norms. As Quilty's reputation has grown, so has the market for his art, with his works consistently achieving impressive prices at auction. However, like all artists, the pricing of Quilty's works is influenced by various factors, including the specific piece, its provenance, and prevailing market conditions.
Overview of Auction Market Performance
In recent years, several of Quilty’s works have garnered notable results at auction, reflecting both strong collector demand and the artist’s rising stature:
"Skull 3, 2006" (200 x 300cm) achieved a hammer price of A$140,000, with a final price including premium of A$171,818 at Menzies, Melbourne, in June 2021. The significant size and striking composition of the work undoubtedly contributed to its strong performance, exceeding its lower estimate of A$120,000.
"Paul's Falcon, 2008" (183 x 214cm) another large-scale piece, sold for A$140,000 at Deutscher and Hackett in November 2020, reaching A$171,818 with premium. The work’s exploration of masculinity and Australian identity likely made it a coveted acquisition for collectors.
"Beast 2, 2005" (120 x 100cm) which fetched a hammer price of A$220,000 (A$270,000 incl. premium), stands out as one of the highest results for Quilty’s works. This sale at Menzies in March 2021 highlights the strong demand for Quilty’s early works, especially those with bold and challenging subject matter.
While these results indicate robust market demand for Quilty's work, it is also important to consider pieces that have not performed as expected at auction.
Case Study: "Want Want Want, 2006"
A particularly illustrative example is "Want Want Want, 2006," an oil and aerosol on linen piece offered at Deutscher and Hackett in Melbourne in May 2023. The work was estimated to sell for between A$120,000 and A$160,000 but ultimately remained unsold. This outcome provides valuable insight into the complexities of the art market and the various factors that can influence the sale of a particular piece.
Despite its unsold status, "Want Want Want, 2006" remains a compelling and desirable work for several reasons:
Artistic Merit: The piece encapsulates Quilty's characteristic energy and thematic depth, reflecting his ongoing exploration of contemporary issues through a highly personal lens.
Provenance: The work’s inclusion in a major auction at Deutscher and Hackett underscores its significance within Quilty’s body of work.
Market Timing: The result could be attributed to the timing and specific conditions of the market at the time of sale rather than a reflection of the artwork's inherent value. The fluctuating nature of the art market means that even significant pieces can be passed in at auction, only to be highly sought after in future sales.
Comparative Analysis: Pricing Insights from a Premier Secondary Market Gallery
To further understand the market potential of Quilty's work, it is helpful to consider recent pricing data from a high-end secondary market gallery in Sydney. This gallery recently listed several of Quilty's works, providing a clear benchmark for their current market value:
A work measuring 130 x 220cm was listed at $130,000.
A work measuring 180 x 200cm was listed at $180,000.
A large-scale piece measuring 220 x 580cm was also listed at $180,000.
These listings from the secondary market reinforce the value of Quilty’s work, even when auction results might suggest otherwise. The listed prices for similar works highlight the potential value and investment opportunity that "Want Want Want, 2006" represents, especially given its availability under favorable terms.
Pricing Trends and Investment Potential
The pricing of Quilty’s work generally reflects his stature as one of Australia’s leading contemporary artists. While the results for "Want Want Want, 2006" might suggest caution, it is essential to view this in the broader context of Quilty’s overall market performance. His work continues to be in demand, with many pieces achieving strong prices that align with or exceed their estimates.
For collectors and investors, Quilty’s art offers both aesthetic appeal and significant potential for financial appreciation. The unsold status of "Want Want Want, 2006" may, in fact, present an opportunity for savvy buyers to acquire a significant work at a more accessible price point, with strong potential for future appreciation as Quilty’s career continues to evolve.
Conclusion
Ben Quilty’s auction market history demonstrates both the enduring appeal of his work and the complexities inherent in art valuation. While some works achieve outstanding results, others like "Want Want Want, 2006" remind us of the dynamic nature of the market. For those considering an acquisition, understanding these nuances—along with the strong secondary market prices—can lead to informed decisions and potentially rewarding investments.
ArtVals is delighted to present a rare opportunity to acquire "Want Want Want, 2006" by the acclaimed Australian artist Ben Quilty. This powerful work is being offered under exclusive terms, with no buyer's premium—a seamless and straightforward acquisition for discerning collectors. "Want Want Want" embodies Quilty’s signature boldness and creative force, making it an essential addition to any serious collection. Don’t let this exceptional piece slip away. Contact us to discover how you can make it yours.
