Television producer Ryan Murphy made headlines this week by purchasing Simone Leigh’s sculpture “Sphinx” for $889,000 during a high-profile auction at Sotheby’s in New York. The auction, which took place following the sale of the late billionaire Leonard Lauder’s extensive art collection, showcased a range of impressive pieces, including a record-setting painting by Gustav Klimt.
Leigh’s “Sphinx,” a 2021 creation crafted from bronze and platinum leaf, was among the more understated purchases of the evening. The auction house noted that the artist’s work often explores themes of Black feminist thought, highlighting the experiences of Black women. The piece embodies a blend of historical references and contemporary artistic practices, offering commentary on the roles of labor and care within the Black community.
The auction was significant in its scale, with the inaugural evening of sales at Sotheby’s new Breuer Building generating a staggering $706 million. This figure marks the highest revenue ever recorded for a single night at the auction house. Notably, Lauder’s Klimt painting, “Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer,” fetched $236.4 million, making it the second-most expensive artwork sold at auction.
Amid these remarkable transactions, the infamous golden toilet, titled “America” by Maurizio Cattelan, also drew attention. This eccentric piece sold for $12.1 million to Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! The museum celebrated the acquisition on social media, calling it a flush of excitement, especially coinciding with World Toilet Day. The original version of this toilet was stolen from Blenheim Palace in England in 2019 and remains missing, although two individuals were convicted of the theft in March.
In addition to his art investments, Murphy’s latest television project, “All’s Fair,” features Kim Kardashian in a legal drama that has faced criticism from reviewers. Despite this, the show has garnered a sizable viewership, indicating Murphy’s continued influence in the entertainment industry.
As the art market remains vibrant and dynamic, Murphy’s acquisition of “Sphinx” reflects both his personal interests and the ongoing evolution of contemporary art. The successful auction at Sotheby’s not only underscores the high stakes of the art world but also highlights the intersection of culture and commerce in today’s society.
