Christie’s Exhibition and Sale of Madonna’s ‘Sex’ Photographs from Bestseller

Christie’s, the renowned auction house, is set to disperse 40 shots of Madonna from her bestseller “Sex” this fall. The photographs, which have been reissued by Saint Laurent, will be exhibited in Paris from June 27 to July 6. The sale of these unique prints will take place in New York on October 6.

“Sex” was published by Madonna in 1992, shortly after the release of her fifth album, “Erotica.” The book, a collection of photographs by Steven Meisel, caused a scandal due to its provocative and explicit content. Madonna posed under the pseudonym “Mistress Dita” and challenged societal norms surrounding sexual freedom and SM aesthetics. The singer even defied her production house’s prohibition on religious elements by posing nude with a crucifix in the background.

Despite the controversy, “Sex” became a bestseller, with 150,000 copies sold in the United States on the day of its release. It remained at the top of the New York Times bestseller list for three weeks and sold a total of 1.5 million copies. The first French edition, sealed and numbered, is particularly sought after by collectors.

In 2022, Saint Laurent released a limited edition of 800 copies of “Sex,” showcasing the enduring influence and appeal of Madonna’s work. Now, Christie’s will offer 40 unique prints from the book for sale. The exhibition and sale will be accompanied by an international tour, with stops in London and Paris.

Darius Himes, Vice President and International Director of Christie’s Photography Department, describes the photographs as “playful, subversive, and precursory.” He believes they encapsulate a period in the history of art, representing the mythification of celebrities and the cult of the image. The estimated prices for the prints range from $80,000 to $350,000 per image.

The proceeds from the sale will be donated to the Raising Malawi charity, which supports children in Malawi. This charitable aspect adds a virtuous element to the event, creating a positive impact beyond the world of art and celebrity.

The exhibition, titled “Madonna x Meisel: The Sex Photographs,” will be held at Christie’s in Paris from June 27 to July 6. The sale will take place on October 6 in New York. This event offers an opportunity for art enthusiasts and Madonna fans alike to own a piece of cultural history and support a worthy cause.

What is the significance of Christie’s exhibition showcasing photographs from Madonna’s “Sex,” and why are these reissued photographs considered desirable and exclusive

Andal upon its release due to its explicit content and provocative imagery. Despite the controversy surrounding it, “Sex” became a bestseller and is now considered a cultural icon.

Christie’s, known for its expertise in art auctions, will be showcasing 40 shots from Madonna’s “Sex” in an exhibition held in Paris from June 27 to July 6. These photographs have been reissued by the luxury fashion brand, Saint Laurent, which adds to their desirability and exclusivity.

After the exhibition, the unique prints will be up for sale in New York on October 6. This auction is expected to attract Madonna fans, art collectors, and enthusiasts who recognize the cultural significance of “Sex” and its impact on popular culture.

Published in 1992, “Sex” served as a visual companion to Madonna’s fifth studio album, “Erotica.” The book featured a diverse collection of photographs captured by renowned fashion photographer Steven Meisel. It delved into themes of sexuality, bondage, and subversion, pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms.

The release of “Sex” created a wave of controversies, with critics and conservative groups accusing Madonna of promoting pornography and sexual objectification. Nevertheless, the book struck a chord with many who appreciated its artistic value and fearless exploration of sexuality.

Over time, “Sex” has become an influential piece of art that reflects Madonna’s artistic vision and boldness. Its reissue by Saint Laurent has reignited interest in the photographs, positioning them as sought-after collectibles for both Madonna aficionados and art enthusiasts alike.

The exhibition and subsequent auction present a unique opportunity to own a piece of Madonna’s legacy and own a part of art history. The photographs from “Sex” not only represent Madonna’s fearless tackling of societal taboos but also serve as a testament to her impact on popular culture and artistic expression.