What is the value of Wassily Kandinsky‘s works today? Are they a good investment? In this article, we will analyze recent auction sales, the records achieved, and the stability of Kandinsky’s market.
Wassily Kandinsky, pioneer of abstract art, continues to be a central figure in the art market. His works, with vibrant colors and dynamic shapes, have attracted collectors and investors for decades.
The market value of Wassily Kandinsky’s Works
The works of Kandinsky have always been among the most sought after in the modern art market. Thanks to their historical importance and innovative aesthetics, they have maintained a high value over time.
The demand for his works remains constant, with a particular interest in the works created between 1910 and 1940, a period in which Kandinsky developed his abstract style.
Record di Vendite all’Asta
In recent years, the works of Kandinsky have recorded record figures in the main auction houses:
- “Murnau mit Kirche II” (1910) – Sold for 42.4 million dollars in 2023 by Sotheby’s.
- “Tensions calmées” (1937) – Sold for 29.3 million dollars in 2021.
- “Rigide et courbé” (1935) – Sold for 23.3 million dollars in 2016.
These data demonstrate a positive trend for the works of the Russian painter, with a significant increase in prices compared to the past.
Recently, a Wassily Kandinsky sold by Sotheby’s in Saudi Arabia was awarded below the estimate at 240,000 dollars.
Obviously here we talk about his most famous works. For a singola stampa, these can also be found between 5,000 and 30,000 pounds, depending on the conditions, rarity, and demand.
The prints from the Bauhaus period by Kandinsky (1922-1933), which include 12 prints made with various techniques, have reached prices exceeding 150,000 pounds in major auctions.
A complete portfolio of 12 lithographs was sold in 1989 for 164,100 pounds and in 2020 for 150,000 pounds.
Other works from his Blue period have been sold between £15,000 and £25,000, while Hugellandschaft (1904) was sold for £82,701 in 1997, and Mondaufgang (1904) for £63,712 in 2020.
The Most Recent Auctions
The auctions of 2023 and 2024 have confirmed that Kandinsky remains a leading figure in the art market. The sale of “Murnau mit Kirche II” was particularly significant, setting a new record and demonstrating that the demand for his works is still high.
This painting was part of a collection confiscated by the Nazis and its sale attracted great attention.
Kandinsky as an Investment
Can the purchase of a work by Kandinsky be considered a safe investment? Here are some key factors:
1. Historical and Artistic Value
The works of Kandinsky have an intrinsic value given by their importance in the history of art. Being one of the pioneers of abstract art, his works have a significant weight in museums and private collections.
2. Growth of the Market
In recent decades, the prices of Kandinsky’s works have increased steadily. The interest in modern and abstract art has grown, favoring an increase in the value of his canvases.
3. Liquidity of the Investment
The works of Kandinsky sell easily at high-level auctions. However, the market can be influenced by global economic conditions and artistic trends.
4. Risks and Value Volatility
Although Kandinsky is a well-established figure, the prices of artworks can fluctuate. Additionally, the value depends on the provenance, the state of preservation, and the rarity of the work.
Investing in a work by Wassily Kandinsky is generally a solid choice for collectors and art investors. Recent records show that the market for his works is growing, with high demand from museums and private buyers.
However, as with any investment, it is essential to carefully evaluate the quality of the work, its provenance, and market conditions. Those who wish to purchase a Kandinsky should closely monitor auctions and consult experts to ensure a safe and profitable investment.
How to understand if it is an authentic Kandinsky
First, it is necessary to check the provenienza of the work: verify the history of previous owners, any auction sales, and certificates of authenticity.
Furthermore, it is important to ensure that the painting is included in the catalogues raisonnés of Kandinsky, such as those curated by Roethel and Benjamin or by the Kandinsky Archive at the Centre Pompidou.
2. Certification by Experts
- Consult an expert or a specialized auction house (Sotheby’s, Christie’s, Phillips) for an official authentication.
- The Centre Pompidou in Paris preserves much of the Kandinsky archive and can be a reference for verification.
3. Technical and Stylistic Analysis
- Study the style and technique of Kandinsky: compare the strokes, composition, colors, and use of shapes with his well-known works.
- Analyze the materiali utilizzati: a painting on canvas with acrylic colors could be a fake, as Kandinsky used oil, watercolor, or tempera.
4. Scientific Analysis
- The dating of pigments (chemical examination) can reveal if the colors used existed at the time when Kandinsky was working.
- The x-ray and infrared analysis can reveal hidden details and verify if there are preliminary sketches under the painting consistent with its method.
5. Attention to Prices and Origins
- If the price is too low or the sale occurs from unreliable sources, the risk of counterfeiting is high.
- Avoid private purchases without clear documentation: prefer renowned auction houses and galleries.
Image: By Wassily Kandinsky – Kunsthaus Zürich, Public Domain
As expert in digital marketing, Amelia began working in the fintech sector in 2014 after writing her thesis on Bitcoin technology. Previously author for several international crypto-related magazines and CMO at Eidoo. She is now the co-founder and editor-in-chief of The Cryptonomist and Econique.
She is also a marketing teacher at Digital Coach in Milan and she published a book about NFTs for the Italian publishing house Mondadori, while she is also helping artists and company to entering in the sector. As advisor, Amelia is also involved in metaverse-related project such as The Nemesis and OVER.
