An auction that will turn a global spotlight on Ireland

An auction that will turn a global spotlight on Ireland is one to look out for this year, says Des O’Sullivan

One sale to look forward to in 2020 takes place at Sotheby’s in London on March 18 — the day after St Patrick’s Day.

It will focus global attention on the art and antiques of Ireland at a time when international buyers are playing an increasingly important role in many sales in this country.

Jack Yeats and William Scott made art which could not be more different, yet together they represent the two hottest Irish artists in the salesrooms right now.

Interior views of Number 44 Fitzwilliam Square.

Both featured in the collection of late property developer Patrick Kelly, who furnished his Georgian home at 44 Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin, with an array of paintings spanning the 18th to the 20th centuries.

These paintings were wonderfully complemented with fine Georgian and Regency furniture, silver and decorative arts, amassed by Kelly from auctions and dealers over the past three decades.

On offer at Sotheby’s will be 120 lots from the estate of Patrick Kelly (1942-2011) who was one of our most successful property developers.

Arabella Bishop, head of Sotheby’s Dublin office, said: “I have known Patrick and his collection for many years. 44 Fitzwilliam Square was a truly stunning setting to showcase the paintings, furniture, and objects which he collected from around the world over a number of decades.

“In holding a dedicated auction, we are able to celebrate Patrick’s vision and look forward to sharing it with collectors not only in Ireland but internationally.”

The auction will offer art by George Barret, Roderic O’Conor, Yeats, Scott and others.

Furniture highlights include a pair of George II Irish mirrors supplied to Sankey Winter, Dean of Kildare, and marquetry tables attributed to William Moore of Dublin.

Sotheby’s says the collection reveals Patrick’s passion for Irish art and his discerning eye, with pictures and furniture beautifully married within the elegant surroundings of his Georgian home.

Central to the collection are five paintings by Yeats, including The Showground Revisited, 1950 (£150,000-£250,000/€170,000-€282,000), and Young Men, 1929 (£150,000-£250,000/ €170,000-€282,000), and an exceptional work by William Scott, Deep Blues (£300,000-£500,000/€339,000-€565,000).