David Hockney’s L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime (1968) is making a triumphant return to Sotheby’s, headlining the prestigious contemporary evening auction in London on October 9th. This exquisite painting, which embodies Hockney’s signature style and his deeply personal connection to place, has not been publicly available since it sold at Sotheby’s in 2011 for £1.3 million ($2.1 million). With a current estimate of £7 million–£10 million ($9 million–$13 million), this iconic piece underscores the rising demand for Hockney’s work and its enduring cultural significance.

In this article, we will explore the historical and artistic context of L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime, its place within Hockney’s oeuvre, and its significance in today’s art market.

The Artist: David Hockney

David Hockney is one of the most influential and celebrated artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Known for his vivid color palette, innovative techniques, and exploration of themes such as identity, landscape, and technology, Hockney’s work has had a profound impression on contemporary art.

A Personal Connection to Landscape

Hockney’s fascination with place and light is a recurring theme in his work. Whether capturing the serene pools of Los Angeles, the vibrant landscapes of Yorkshire, or the Mediterranean charm of the French Riviera, Hockney’s paintings invite viewers to experience his world. L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime is no exception, offering a glimpse into his time spent on the Côte d’Azur.

The Painting: L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime (1968)

A Reflection of Place and Time

Painted in 1968, L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime is a stunning example of Hockney’s exploration of landscape during the late 1960s. Sainte-Maxime, a picturesque town on the French Riviera, provided Hockney with the perfect setting to experiment with color, light, and perspective.

The painting features a lush, verdant landscape bathed in Mediterranean sunlight. Hockney’s use of bold greens and blues captures the vibrancy of the natural environment, while his playful manipulation of perspective adds a dreamlike quality to the scene. The work exemplifies his ability to blend the real and the imagined, creating an emotional connection between the viewer and the landscape.

Stylistic Elements

Color Palette: The vivid greens and blues dominate the composition, evoking the warmth and brightness of the Mediterranean.

Perspective: Hockney employs a flattened perspective that draws inspiration from both traditional landscape painting and modernist abstraction.

Brushwork: His deliberate yet fluid brushstrokes add texture and movement, enhancing the sense of vitality in the scene.

Historical Context

The late 1960s were a pivotal time for Hockney. Having already achieved success in the United Kingdom, he was increasingly drawn to the light and lifestyle of Southern California and Southern Europe. L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime reflects this transitional period in his career, blending the influences of British modernism with his newfound appreciation for the vibrant landscapes of his travels.

Connection to the French Riviera

The French Riviera has long been a muse for artists, including Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, and Pierre Bonnard. Hockney’s L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime places him within this storied tradition, while his unique style ensures the work stands apart. The painting captures the timeless beauty of the region, infused with Hockney’s personal perspective and contemporary sensibilities.

The Art Market: A Testament to Hockney’s Value

L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime was last sold at Sotheby’s in 2011 for £1.3 million ($2.1 million). Since then, Hockney’s market value has skyrocketed, with several record-breaking sales underscoring his importance in the art world.

Record-Breaking Sales

In 2018, Hockney’s Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures) sold for $90.3 million at Christie’s, setting a new auction record for a living artist at the time. This milestone highlighted the growing appreciation for his work and solidified his place among the most sought-after artists of our time.

The Rising Demand for Landscapes

Hockney’s landscapes, in particular, have garnered increased attention in recent years. Collectors are drawn to their vibrant colors, emotional resonance, and ability to transport viewers to another place. L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime fits perfectly into this trend, making its return to auction highly anticipated.

Current Estimate

With an estimated value of £7 million–£10 million ($9 million–$13 million), L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime reflects the growing demand for Hockney’s work. This significant increase from its 2011 sale price speaks to the painting’s enduring appeal and the broader appreciation for Hockney’s contribution to contemporary art.

The Auction: October 9th at Sotheby’s

Sotheby’s contemporary evening auction in London is one of the most prestigious events in the art world, drawing collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts from around the globe. L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime will headline the sale, serving as a centerpiece that encapsulates the excitement and prestige of the evening.

Expectations and Buzz

The anticipation surrounding L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime is palpable. Industry experts predict competitive bidding, driven by both the painting’s artistic significance and its rarity. As one of the finest examples of Hockney’s landscape work from the late 1960s, it is expected to attract interest from major collectors and institutions.

A successful sale could further elevate Hockney’s market value and reinforce his status as one of the most important artists of our time. Additionally, the auction may set a benchmark for other works from this period, influencing future sales and exhibitions.

Beyond its market value, L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime holds significant cultural importance. The painting is a testament to Hockney’s ability to capture the essence of a place while infusing it with his own artistic vision. Its return to Sotheby’s provides an opportunity for new audiences to appreciate its beauty and significance.

Impression

David Hockney’s L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime (1968) is a masterpiece that transcends time and place. As it returns to Sotheby’s for the first time in over a decade, it carries with it the weight of Hockney’s legacy and the promise of an exciting future in the art market.

Whether it achieves its estimated value of £7 million–£10 million ($9 million–$13 million) or exceeds expectations, the painting’s impact will be felt far beyond the auction room. For collectors, art enthusiasts, and fans of Hockney, L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime is not just a painting—it’s a piece of history, a celebration of place, and a reminder of the transformative power of art.

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