Irish Old Masters Auction Set to Showcase Artistic Heritage on November 5
Dublin’s esteemed auction house, James Adam, is poised to unveil a groundbreaking new category of sale: Irish Old Masters. This significant event will take place on November 5 and aims to celebrate the rich legacy of Irish artists whose works have often been overshadowed in the broader context of European art history.
Explore the Depth of Ireland’s Artistic Tradition
The upcoming auction will feature an impressive collection of 84 lots, showcasing artists such as James Barry, Nathanial Hone, George Barret, William Brocas, Adam Buck, and Nathanial Grogan. Cork Savings Bank (1842) by James Mahony (1810-1879) is among the highlighted pieces poised to attract attention.
Traditionally, the term "Old Masters" refers to recognized artists who practiced in Europe before or around 1800. While the term is generally applied to those from the continental scene, the boundaries of art historical terminology can be fluid. As a result, James Adam has included noteworthy Victorian artists like Jeremiah Hodges Mulcahy and George Mounsey Wheatley Atkinson, even extending to the late works of Erskine Nicol.
Revitalizing Interest in Irish Art
According to Stuart Cole from Adams, this sale intends to "reintroduce the exceptional and subtle mastery of Irish artists from previous centuries in an environment of their peers and contemporaries." Over the past fifty years, interest in art in Ireland has surged, with a clear trend towards modern works dominating the market. This strategic move to spotlight Irish Old Masters seeks to restore balance and prominence to these historical figures, aiming to establish this as an annual event.
Highlighted in the auction are nine engravings by James Barry, estimated between €600 and €2,000, which demonstrate the nuanced storytelling embedded in his works. One remarkable piece, an engraving titled Lord Baltimore and the Group of Legislators, contains inscriptions that challenge prevailing historical narratives about colonialism.
Featured Works and Their Significance
Among the most valuable items, James Adam will present:
- Pair of Portraits of Thomas Carter and Mary by Charles Jervas: Estimated at €60,000-€80,000.
- Landscape by Thomas Roberts: Estimated at €40,000-€60,000.
- River Landscape by George Barret: Estimated at €40,000-€60,000.
- Travellers Resting on a Country Road by Francis Wheatley: Estimated at €20,000-€30,000.
- James Malton’s Views of Dublin (1809): Estimated at €8,000-€10,000.
Additionally, several watercolors featuring local architecture and maritime themes, including an oval watercolor of Glanmire Church by Nathanial Grogan (€3,000-€5,000) and Cork Savings Bank by Mahony (€3,000-€5,000), are likely to attract considerable local interest.
The Impact of Irish Old Masters
This pioneering auction stands to benefit both collectors and the wider art community. By integrating these historical Irish artists into contemporary discussions, James Adam not only champions Ireland’s rich artistic lineage but also encourages new collectors to engage with pieces that hold immense cultural significance.
Invitation for Engagement
As the date approaches, there’s palpable excitement in the air. The prospect of this auction not only honors Ireland’s past but paves the way for future generations to appreciate the beauty of Irish artistry.
James Adam’s initiative could spur a resurgence of interest in the Old Masters category within Irish art auctions and possibly influence how collectors view and value works from this distinguished period. We invite art enthusiasts, collectors, and the general public to explore this unique opportunity and share your thoughts on the importance of preserving Ireland’s artistic heritage.
Join the conversation and let us know what Irish Old Masters mean to you. Your insights could enrich this ongoing discussion about art and culture in Ireland.
