Vik Muniz - Contemporary Art Part II New York Friday, May 13, 2011 | Phillips

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  • Provenance

    Dame Elizabeth Taylor, Los Angeles (Gift of the artist, 2004); Private Collection (Gifted from Dame Elizabeth Taylor, 2008); Acquired from the above by the present owner, 2008

  • Literature

    L. Martin, Reflex: a Vik Muniz primer, New York 2005, p. 98 (illustrated)

  • Catalogue Essay

    Phillips de Pury & Company is honored to present a dazzling portrait of the late Hollywood icon Elizabeth Taylor. The portrait is not only a brilliant representation of the star’s image, but one whose provenance extents to the subject herself. When the artist Vik Muniz decided to create his Diamond Diva series, he knew Dame Elizabeth Taylor would make the perfect subject to be rendered entirely out of precious stones. Fittingly, he promised her a gift of the first artist proof from the edition. Upon its
    completion, he presented her with a portrait that shone with nearly the vitality of the star herself.

    The story of the work’s provenance evolved as Dame Elizabeth Taylor gifted the portrait to a dear friend of hers who believed it to be the actress’ most glamorous depiction. With one more change of hands, the portrait found its way to another devoted admirer. Here the star’s legendary glamour resides in a final tribute, one definitive enough for the star to give her personal blessing as owner. Now, following the death of its beloved subject, the portrait’s provenance continues to find its way towards one of the star’s many dedicated devotees.

143

Elizabeth Taylor (Pictures of Diamonds)

2004
Cibachrome.
40 x 30 in. (101.6 x 76.2 cm.)
Signed and dated "Vik Muniz 2004" on a label adhered to the reverse of the mount. This work is from an edition of 10 plus four artist's proofs and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity signed by the artist. The work is also accompanied by a letter dated June 10, 2008 from the Office of Dame Elizabeth Taylor.

Estimate
$80,000 - 120,000 

Sold for $170,500

Contemporary Art Part II

13 May 2011
New York