PHILLIPS UNVEILS HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE INAUGURAL EDITIONS AUCTION IN HONG KONG AMID STRONG MARKET DEMAND
HONG KONG—12 March 2025—Marking its 10th anniversary in Asia this year, Phillips is thrilled to present a series of auctions, previews, and selling exhibitions this March at its Asia headquarters in Hong Kong's vibrant West Kowloon Cultural District- coinciding with the city’s highly anticipated Art Week. On 28 March, Phillips will debut a dedicated Editions live auction in Hong Kong, featuring works by iconic modern and contemporary artists, including Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, Damien Hirst, KAWS, Banksy, and Yoshitomo Nara, among others. Ahead of the auction, a preview will be held at Phillips’ galleries in West Kowloon from 21 to 28 March.
Nick Wilson, Head of Editions, Photographs and Design, Asia, said, “Building on the increasing appetite among collectors in Asia for prints and multiples, we are excited to be the first auction house to launch a dedicated Editions live auction in Hong Kong. Reflecting on the category’s achievements – Editions auction sell-through rates averaged over 90% across both 2023 and 2024 – we have solidified our position as a market leader. We look forward to our first sale in Hong Kong, which brings together an expansive group of important names spanning a century, marking an opportunity for our community to acquire editioned works that represent the forefront of modern and contemporary art.”
Leading the inaugural sale is Damien Hirst’s The Virtues (H. 9) (illustrated on page 1), a work inspired by Bushidō, the Japanese Samurai code of ethics. Rich with art historical references-from Van Gogh to Abstract Expressionism-Hirst’s work captures the delicate beauty of Japanese cherry blossoms and the profound sincerity and discipline of Bushidō.
Among the auction highlights from the Editions Hong Kong sale is Pablo Picasso’s Portrait de Jacqueline au Fauteuil. Phillips is delighted to present this rare work this Spring, coinciding with the artist's major exhibition at M+. It features Jacqueline Roque, Picasso's second wife and muse, with her face depicted using exaggerated features and multi-perspectives. This highlights Picasso's unique approach to capturing the essence of his subjects. It reflects the deep affection and admiration the artist had for Jacqueline, making it a significant piece in his extensive body of work.
Also highlighted in the auction will be Yoshitomo Nara’s Tell Me which depicts the iconic ‘Nara girl’ with almond shaped eyes and mischievous smile that has captivated audiences worldwide. The sale will also feature a rare set of Yayoi Kusama’s three works Pumpkin (YT); Pumpkin (GT) and Pumpkin (RT), showcasing the artist’s most recognisable motifs of pumpkin and infinity nets. Further highlights include Banksy’s Pulp Fiction depicting an iconic scene from the 1994 film of the same name, which was originally stenciled in London’s Old Street tube station.
Another standout work is David Hockney’s My Window: No. 778, 17th April 2011, offering a captivating glimpse outside the window of the artist’s Yorkshire home on a specific day. Grapes by Andy Warhol is a rare trial proof and exemplifies his signature Pop Art style, transforming everyday objects into vibrant and striking works of art.
Notable modern works include Salvador Dalí’s renowned Profile of Time, a striking homage to the artist’s iconic 1931 painting, The Persistence of Memory, which introduced the world to his melting clocks. This work captures Dalí's fascination with the passage of time and its impact on human life. Zao Wou-Ki’s Untitled exemplifies the artist's mastery of colour and form, inviting viewers into a captivating world of abstract expressionism. Phillips is honoured to present the artist’s print ahead of a special exhibition at M+, which will offer a cross-disciplinary showcase of Zao's printmaking practice, opening in December this year.
Auction: 2pm HKT, 28 March, 2025 Auction viewing: 21-28 March 11:00-19:00 Location: Phillips Asia Headquarters, WKCDA Tower, West Kowloon Cultural District, No. 8 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong Click here for more information ABOUT PHILLIPS Phillips: where the world’s curious and bold connect with the art, design and luxury that inspires them. As a leading global platform for buying and selling 20th and 21st century works, Phillips offers dedicated expertise in the areas of Modern and Contemporary Art, Design, Photographs, Editions, Watches, and Jewelry. Auctions and exhibitions are primarily held in New York, London, Geneva, and Hong Kong, with representative offices based throughout Europe, the United States and Asia. Phillips offers a regular selection of live and online auctions, along with items available for immediate purchase. Phillips also offers a range of services and advice on all aspects of collecting, including private sales and assistance with appraisals, valuations, and financial planning. Visit phillips.com for further information.
PRESS CONTACTS: Ingrid Hsu, Head of PR and Corporate Communications, Asia ingridhsu@phillips.com +852 2318 2043 Jiayi Zhang, Public Relations Coordinator jiayizhang@phillips.com +852 2318 2080
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