Irish art turnover is up but market remains problematic

Despite brisk bidding, Des O’Sullivan hears auctioneers are finding it difficult to source top quality works.

The big winter Irish art sales — by de Vere’s, Whyte’s, Morgan O’Driscoll and James Adam — grossed almost five million euro. This figure suggests that our art market is in a state of rude good health, but the real story is more complex.

Bidding is brisk, turnover is up and the market has its problems. All auctioneers are finding it difficult to source top quality works. “What incentive is there to sell when you can get no interest on your money” one asked.