Tom of Finland’s sexy, rare motorcycle series is now up for auction

TOM OF FINLAND Untitled (From the “Third Man” series), 1959, Graphite on paper, 9.00″ x 12.00″, ©Tom of Finland Foundation

A rare, complete set of signed drawings by famed artist Tom of Finland will be offered at auction later this month by Phillips auction house in New York City.

This untitled series of 11 commissioned drawings represent an early period in the iconic artist’s development and will be sold as a set. Phillips estimates the sale to be worth anywhere between $180,000 to $250,000.

“We are so honored to present this motorcycle series as a highlight of the fall season at Phillips. These eleven superb works are some of the best examples of Tom of Finland’s iconic imagery, which has influenced generations of queer artists and made the world a slightly freer, safer place for us all.” Brittany Jones, a researcher and Specialist in 20th Century & Contemporary Art at Phillips, tells Out.

This series was commissioned from 1959 to 1960 by Tony Hepworth of Yorkshire. Both a fan of Tom of Finland and an avid motorcyclist, Hepworth sent £25 each month for Tom to create a homoerotic motorcycle-themed series of drawings.

“I hope that this grouping, which is one of the artist’s greatest series, will help solidify Tom of Finland’s reputation as one of the most revolutionary — and bravest — voices of the 20th century,” Jones tells Out.

Learn more about the auction.

This series by Tom of Finland will be on view at Phillips New York from 8th to 17th November. The auction on 18th November will welcome in-person bidding.

ORIGINAL ARTICLE BY DONALD PADGETT

Une série de dessins mythiques de Tom of Finland
va être vendue aux enchères

Published: 13th November 2021

Categorised in: Art Offering