Museum plan to sell off old stuff draws opposition
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- The Albright-Knox Art Gallery's planned sale of 200 mostly older works to strengthen its buying power for newer pieces will be either one of the most important steps the gallery ever undertakes, or a giant misstep, depending on whom you ask.
Headed for the Sotheby's auction block beginning later this month are Chinese ceramics dating to the 13th century B.C., Indian and Southeast Asian works from the second to 11th century, American Indian earthenware, and old master paintings and antiquities. The most famous is a classical bronze statue, "Artemis and the Stag," circa first century B.C. to first century A.D., valued at $5 million to $7 million.
The works have been little displayed and fall outside of the museum's mission as a premier modern and contemporary gallery, say Albright-Knox leaders, who will use the $15 million or more expected from the sale to fortify an acquisitions fund targeting works by artists of the day.
Read entire article at AP
Headed for the Sotheby's auction block beginning later this month are Chinese ceramics dating to the 13th century B.C., Indian and Southeast Asian works from the second to 11th century, American Indian earthenware, and old master paintings and antiquities. The most famous is a classical bronze statue, "Artemis and the Stag," circa first century B.C. to first century A.D., valued at $5 million to $7 million.
The works have been little displayed and fall outside of the museum's mission as a premier modern and contemporary gallery, say Albright-Knox leaders, who will use the $15 million or more expected from the sale to fortify an acquisitions fund targeting works by artists of the day.