A unique David Bowie self-portrait with his handprints is set to be auctioned for the first time. The artwork, created by the singer in 1996, will be part of Sotheby’s Modern British and Irish Art Day Auction on Oct. 15. It is expected to fetch between £35,000 to £55,000 (approximately $66,000 Cdn to $104,000 Cdn).
Initially gifted by Bowie to his St Ives gallerist, the painting has been in a private collection for three decades and is now on public display in London before its upcoming auction. This piece is one of a series of eight large-scale portraits from the mid-1990s, with this particular one considered the most expressive.
Sotheby’s senior specialist Jen Hardie described the self-portrait as a reflection of Bowie’s creativity and self-exploration. The direct gaze and handprints on the artwork establish a personal connection with the artist, showcasing a different side of Bowie beyond his music and cultural persona.
The painting, done on paper, features Bowie staring directly at the viewer, highlighting his distinctive uneven pupils. The handprints on the lower portion of the painting add an intimate element to the artwork. This presents a rare opportunity for fans to own a piece of David Bowie’s artistic legacy firsthand.