Composition Noire, Jaune, Bleue Et Rouge © Serge Polakoff 1966
Serge Poliakoff
25 works
Key Takeaways
Serge Poliakoff's prints consistently attract serious collectors, with individual works typically fetching between £10,000 and £20,000. His most sought-after lithographs from the 1950s and 1960s can achieve even higher prices, with collections reaching up to £48,699 at auction. Authentication requires thorough examination of provenance, printing technique, and reference to Alexis Poliakoff's catalogue raisonné. Poliakoff's distinctive use of colour and form in printmaking means condition assessment is crucial to determining a print's value. Strategic timing of sales, such as during major retrospectives or anniversaries, can optimise returns for sellers. The European market remains particularly strong for Poliakoff's work, with prints showing significant potential for appreciation.
Serge Poliakoff, a key figure in the post-war emergence of abstract art movements, is known for his prints and paintings of interlocking forms. He was as much a lithographer as a painter, bringing his religious inspirations, skill as an abstract colourist, and philosophical approach to art to both mediums. For owners of Poliakoff prints who are looking to sell, this guide aims to navigate the market for Poliakoff's prints, offering insights into valuation, authentication, and effective selling strategies.
Poliakoff's artistic journey took him from his native Russia to Paris, where he became an integral part of the École de Paris. His printmaking practice, which began in earnest in the 1950s, allowed him to explore his ideas about colour and form in a different medium. These prints not only made his artistic vision more accessible to a wider audience but also gave Poliakoff new ways to experiment with abstract elements, complementing his work in painting. Today, his ‘jigsaw-esque’ compositions are significant markers in the history of modern art.
Throughout his career, Poliakoff produced a significant body of printed work, primarily lithographs. From his early experiments in the medium to his later, more refined compositions, Poliakoff's prints provide a fascinating glimpse into the artist's creative process and his enduring influence on abstract art.
How Much do Serge Poliakoff Prints Sell For?
The instantly-recognisable work of Serge Poliakoff remains consistently popular with collectors. His iconic jigsaw compositions typically sell for between £10,000 and £20,000, with collections of prints achieving the highest values. Although the majority of prints in Poliakoff’s portfolio are lithographs, his etchings perform equally well.
Poliakoff's lithographs from the 1950s and 1960s, which represent the height of his artistic maturity, are particularly prized by collectors. These prints capture Poliakoff’s unique approach to abstract geometry, his bold colour contrasts, and his understanding of compositional balance. The highest value achieved by a collection of Poliakoff prints at auction is £48,699, paid for an untitled collection of 10 prints in 2013. In more recent years, individual prints have been performing comparatively well. Composition Bleue, Jaune Et Rouge (1965) sold for £10,164 in 2022, and Composition Bleue (1966) sold for £12,909 in 2019. Composition Rouge, Verte Et Bleue (1969) has sold for over £8,000 twice since 2020.
Poliakoff kept his print editions to around 75 prints, which ensures their rarity and keeps demand and competition consistent. Even rarer artist proofs are highly prized. The market for Poliakoff's prints has shown steady growth over recent decades, with particular interest from collectors in Europe and North America. This global demand has contributed to the consistent appreciation of his print works, making them attractive to both art enthusiasts and investors.
How Do You Authentivate a Serge Poliakoff Print?
Authentication of a Serge Poliakoff print involves establishing its history, its composition, and its place in the artist’s broader body of work. Begin by gathering all available documentation related to the print's history of ownership and exhibition. This can include certificates of authenticity, gallery receipts, exhibition catalogues, or correspondence with the artist or print studio. Establishing a clear provenance trail back to Poliakoff himself is crucial.
The definitive catalogue raisonné for Poliakoff's work, compiled by his son Alexis Poliakoff, is an invaluable resource for authentication. This comprehensive multi-volume catalogue documents Poliakoff's artistic output, including his prints, providing detailed information on techniques, editions, and variations.
Poliakoff's prints were often produced in collaboration with renowned print studios and publishers. Verifying the involvement of these studios through their stamps or markings can provide additional evidence of authenticity. For example, many of Poliakoff's lithographs were printed by Mourlot Editions in Paris and bear their distinctive stamp.
Understanding the nuances of Poliakoff's printmaking techniques is essential for authentication. His lithographs often feature rich, layered colours and precise forms that require expert printing. Examining the quality of the printing, the paper used, and the technique employed can provide valuable insights into the print's authenticity.
Edition & Signature
Serge Poliakoff typically signed his prints in pencil, usually on the front of the print in the lower margin. His signature is generally fairly large and in cursive, often accompanied by the year of creation. Poliakoff's print editions varied in size, fluctuating at different points of his career, with some limited to as few as 30 copies, while others reached 200 or more. Edition numbers are typically found on the lower left, written as a fraction (e.g., 15/75). Artist's proofs, often marked “E.A.” (épreuve d'artiste), are highly sought after by collectors and can fetch higher prices than the numbered edition.
Poliakoff's approach to editioning evolved over his career. Early prints may have less formal numbering or signature practices, while later works often adhere to more standardised conventions. Understanding these nuances can be crucial in authenticating and dating a Poliakoff print.
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Has Your Serge Poliakoff Print Been Kept in Good Condition?
Serge Poliakoff's prints are renowned for their bold, texture-rich colours and precise geometric forms, making their condition a crucial factor in determining their value and appeal to collectors. Any deterioration can significantly impact the overall worth and visual impact of these works.
When evaluating a Poliakoff print, begin by assessing the colour retention. The artist's unique style heavily relies on rich, saturated colours, and any fading or shifts can be particularly detrimental. This is especially true for his lithographs, which comprise a substantial portion of his print portfolio. Lithographic inks are susceptible to fading when exposed to direct sunlight or harsh artificial light for extended periods.
Next, examine the paper for signs of damage or ageing. Poliakoff often used high-quality, acid-free papers, including fine wove papers, such as Rives, known for their durability and texture. However, even these superior materials can be affected by environmental factors over time. Look for discolouration, foxing (brown spots caused by oxidation), or acid burn, particularly around the edges.
Carefully inspect the print's surface for imperfections such as creases, scratches, abrasions, or undulations caused by past water damage. These flaws can be especially noticeable in areas of solid colour, which are hallmarks of Poliakoff's style. Use raking light to detect any such issues.
To maintain your Poliakoff print in optimal condition and secure the highest sale value, proper storage and display are essential. Ideally, store prints in acid-free portfolios, away from direct sunlight and fluctuating humidity. If framing is preferred, use UV-protective glass and acid-free matting to prevent light damage and acid migration.
For advice on how to get started with condition assessment of your Serge Poliakoff print, contact MyArtBroker.
When is the Best Time to Sell My Serge Poliakoff Print?
The art market fluctuates, both in yearly cycles and as interest in particular artists and movements rises and falls. Paying close attention to trends and upcoming events will allow you to choose the perfect time to sell your print.
Overall, Poliakoff's market has shown steady growth over the past decades, but particular spikes often follow major exhibitions or renewed interest in post-war European abstraction. The comprehensive retrospective at the Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris in 2013 sparked renewed international attention on Poliakoff's work across all mediums, resulting in a smattering of high-value print sales across Europe; the afore-mentioned record sale of an untitled print collection took place in Zurich and Composition Rouge, Verte Et Bleue (1969) sold for nearly £10,000.
Anniversary years related to significant moments in Poliakoff's career can also create opportune selling moments by stirring up discussion and prompting galleries to host exhibitions. For instance, 2019 was the 50th anniversary of his death and saw two of Poliakoff’s top 10 highest-value print auction sales take place.
Keep an eye on broader trends in the art market, particularly those related to post-war European abstraction or the École de Paris. Monitoring sales results and value trajectory reports from major auction houses and galleries can be the most effective way to do this, highlighting which prints are proving most popular at any given time.
MyArtBroker offers advanced art tech tools to help you determine the optimal time to sell. Our MyPortfolio service features an AI-powered value indicator that provides real-time valuations of individual prints based on both public and private sales data. Combined with our complimentary valuations, we can help ensure your print achieves maximum value by selling at the perfect moment.
Where Can I Sell My Serge Poliakoff Print?
Selling a Serge Poliakoff Via Online Marketplace
The popularity of online art marketplaces is rising. These digital venues can be effective for more accessible Poliakoff prints, providing an opportunity for quick sales with lower fees compared to traditional channels. Sellers have full control over the listing details and pricing, with tools for showcasing images and detailed descriptions of the work. However, selling high-value artworks online comes with challenges. There's a risk of undervaluing the work due to platform limitations, and the lack of expert curation can make it difficult for exceptional pieces to stand out. Authentication concerns are also more pronounced in the online space. For Poliakoff prints of significant value or rarity, online marketplaces should be approached with caution. If considering this route, opt for specialised platforms that focus on fine art prints and have robust authentication processes in place. These platforms are more likely to attract serious collectors and provide the necessary security measures for high-value transactions.
Selling a Serge Poliakoff Via Auction House
Prestigious auction houses like Christie's, Sotheby's, and Phillips regularly feature Poliakoff's work in their modern and contemporary art sales, offering a global platform for your print. Auction houses provide access to a wide pool of qualified buyers and the potential for achieving high prices in a competitive environment. The prestige associated with major auction houses can also be beneficial for attracting serious collectors, and their ability to contextualise Poliakoff's work within the broader spectrum of 20th century abstract art can enhance its appeal. However, selling through an auction house comes with certain considerations. Fees can be substantial, often reaching 25% of the hammer price. There's also the inherent unpredictability of auctions; your piece might exceed expectations or fail to meet its reserve price. You will only have limited control over the timing and presentation of the sale, as you'll need to adhere to the auction house's schedule and cataloguing process. For high-value Poliakoff prints, particularly rare early works or complete portfolios, the auction route can be highly effective. However, ensure you understand the terms of consignment and any associated costs before proceeding.
To learn more, read our guide to Auction v Private Sale in the Art Market.
Selling a Serge Poliakoff Via a Broker
Art brokers specialising in post-war European art can offer a more personalised approach to selling a Poliakoff print than an auction house. Brokers offer personalised service and expert guidance, with the potential for quicker sales than through auction houses. They also provide the ability to maintain discretion and privacy in the sale, which can be important for some sellers. Brokers can be particularly effective for selling Poliakoff prints that might appeal to a specific subset of collectors, such as those focused on the École de Paris or mid-century abstraction. Working with a broker typically involves lower fees, generally ranging from 10% to 20%. While you might miss out on the broader exposure that public auctions provide, the expertise and network of a knowledgeable broker can be invaluable, especially for mid-range Poliakoff prints. When choosing a broker, look for those with a proven track record in handling Poliakoff's work and a deep understanding of the market for post-war European prints. Their expertise can be invaluable in positioning your print effectively and reaching the right collectors.
Why Sell Your Serge Poliakoff with MyArtBroker?
A Dedicated Broker
MyArtBroker offers a distinctive service connecting clients with their dedicated personal broker, ensuring a secure transaction through our online digital platform. Our specialists excel at sourcing direct buyers for consigned prints via our live trading floor, where users within our extensive network can express interest in specific prints and multiples by particular artists, whether they intend to sell, buy, or simply enquire about a specific print. Our team is approachable, passionate, and consistently provides updates on the art market and artists. We guide sellers through a seamless transaction process, establishing a fair market valuation based on realistic sale prices and offering free advice on the optimal timing for selling, leveraging our extensive knowledge of the art market.
Minimise Risk
At MyArtBroker, we prioritise transparency and security in every art sale. Our stringent due diligence process ensures the authentication and verification of artwork provenance, drawing upon our in-house expertise and collaborating with professional external contacts when needed. This approach effectively mitigates the risk of trading counterfeit or stolen art pieces. Additionally, we minimise the risks associated with public sales. While public auctions may seem appealing, unsold prints can harm an artist's market. Private sales eliminate this risk and enable quicker liquidity release for your artwork compared to adhering to strict auction schedules dictating when your work can be offered for sale.
0% Seller's Fees, 100% of the Time
Our team of specialists offers tailored services to procure rare and special edition prints, catering to both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the market. As part of our standard practice, we provide complimentary valuations and charge zero seller's fees, setting us apart from other private brokers and traditional auction houses. By minimising overhead costs, we allocate resources towards digital innovation and targeted marketing strategies within our network and house magazine.
When it comes to selling artwork, achieving the best price hinges on accessing a niche market with an established collector community. If you're looking to sell a print, turning to a specialist in the print market, like MyArtBroker, yields superior results compared to approaching an auction house, which caters to broader categories of artwork.
Our Network
Through our live trading floor we empower our network of collectors, fundamentally reshaping the art investment and trading landscape in the digital era. Offering real time market data and insights gleaned from worldwide collectors, we establish value based on convenience, accessibility, and the exceptional level of transparency and security provided to over tens of thousands of users.
Read our cohesive report to navigate the art market as a seller: A Guide to Selling Prints in the Current Market.
Serge Poliakoff Collection Management with MyPortfolio
In addition to our live trading floor, MyArtBroker's MyPortfolio serves as a collection management system, empowering collectors to curate and oversee their prints and editions collection. This feature grants users access to our print market database, uniquely tied to our proprietary algorithm, SingularityX. This algorithm scans and analyses both public auction and private sales data to determine real time valuations of individual print works, factoring in various aspects such as condition, colour, and other factors affecting value.
Read What Powers MyArtBroker's Technology? In Conversation With Stuart Jamieson, Financial Quant to learn more about our algorithm.
