Joe Lewis's London School Art Collection Set for Auction

A curated selection of artworks from Joe Lewis's collection, featuring prominent pieces from the London School, is set to debut at the Breuer in New York before being auctioned at Sotheby’s Modern & Contemporary Evening Sale in London on March 4, 2026. This collection includes significant works by artists Lucian Freud, Francis Bacon, and Leon Kossoff, which are recognized for their psychological depth and unique figuration.

New York Observer

Among the highlighted pieces is Lucian Freud's *Blond Girl on a Bed* (1987), estimated at £6-8 million. This painting, depicting model Sophie de Stempel, exemplifies Freud's exploration of the human form, characterized by thick brushwork and a focus on physicality. Another Freud work, *A Young Painter* (1957-58), estimated at £4-6 million, marks a pivotal shift in his artistic style towards a more expressive approach influenced by Bacon.

New York Observer

Leon Kossoff's *Children’s Swimming Pool, 11 O’Clock Saturday Morning, August* (1969) is also included, estimated at £600,000-£800,000. This piece is part of a significant series and is noted for its ability to elevate everyday scenes into the realm of modern art.

New York Observer

Freud and Bacon's relationship, which began in the mid-1940s, was marked by a dynamic exchange of ideas, although it ultimately deteriorated by the mid-1950s. Freud's increasing focus on his work contrasted with Bacon's more extroverted lifestyle. Despite their personal rift, both artists significantly influenced each other's practices.

New York Observer

The London School, which includes Freud and Bacon, was initially more appreciated in the United States than in Britain, where figurative painting faced skepticism during the modernist era. American institutions, such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), began acquiring their works as early as the 1940s, establishing a strong transatlantic connection for these artists.

New York Observer

The auction comes at a time when the market for Freud's and Bacon's works is robust, particularly for nudes and psychologically charged portraits. Recent auction results indicate a growing interest in high-caliber pieces from these artists, with comparable works fetching significant sums. The upcoming sale is expected to attract collectors due to the rarity and quality of the pieces.

New York Observer

Tom Eddison, Sotheby’s co-head of contemporary art in London, emphasized the significance of presenting these works in New York, stating, “These are four masterpiece-quality works by their respective artists—truly museum-quality paintings.” He noted the historical reception of these artists in the U.S. and their enduring appeal.

New York Observer

While the auction is anticipated to generate excitement among collectors, some critics argue that the high estimates may not reflect current market realities, particularly for Kossoff's work, which has historically seen less visibility at auction compared to Freud and Bacon.

New York Observer

Following the auction, major exhibitions of Freud's and Bacon's works are scheduled, including a significant show at the National Portrait Gallery in London and a comparative exhibition at the Albertina Museum in Vienna. These events are expected to further enhance the visibility and appreciation of the London School artists.

New York Observer

• “He was desperate but he was interesting,” — Lucian Freud, reflecting on Ken Brazier.

New York Observer

• “Their agreement was made on a handshake—no paperwork—just trust,” — Tom Eddison, on Freud's partnership with William Acquavella.

New York Observer