Tete De Clown © Bernard Buffet 1955
Bernard Buffet
20 works
Key Takeaways
Bernard Buffet's prints typically fetch £5,000 to £15,000, with sought-after series like Mon Cirque and his Paris scenes achieving over £25,000 for collections. The record for a single print is £86,080 for Circus Dancer in 2012. Authentication requires examining paper quality, printing technique, and provenance, referencing catalogues raisonnés by Garnier and Sorlier. Condition assessment is crucial given Buffet's distinctive style. Strategic timing of sales, such as during major retrospectives, has been proven to optimise returns, but global demand, particularly in Europe, North America, and Asia, contributes to consistent appreciation. Buffet's market demonstrates enduring appeal, with values generally increasing despite some fluctuations in specific series.
Bernard Buffet's distinctive style, characterised by austere, angular figures and stark outlines, made him one of the most recognisable, and contentious, French artists of the 20th century. His prints, much like his paintings, capture the melancholic atmosphere and expressive power that defined his artistic style. For those looking to part with a Buffet print, this guide aims to navigate the market for Buffet's prints, offering insights into valuation, authentication, and selling strategies.
Buffet's artistic journey began in post-war Paris, where he quickly gained recognition for his haunting depictions of the human condition. His printmaking practice included lithography and etching and often featured his signature themes: clowns, still lifes, landscapes, and religious subjects, all rendered with the same stark intensity found in his paintings.
Throughout his career, Buffet collaborated with several prestigious print studios and publishers, including Mourlot in Paris. These partnerships resulted in some of his most coveted print series, showcasing his evolving style from the 1950s through to the 1990s. Buffet's prints not only made his artistic vision more accessible to a broader audience but also allowed him to experiment with the interplay of line and tone in ways that complemented his work in other media.
How Much do Bernard Buffet Prints Sell For?
The market for Bernard Buffet's prints reflects the enduring appeal of his distinctive style and his significance in post-war French art. Individual prints by Buffet typically fetch between £5,000 and £15,000, with collections of prints selling for much more.
Buffet’s most popular prints include his moody depictions of Paris and the circus. A collection of 44 Mon Cirque (1969) prints, including colourful, unsettling portraits of clowns and figurative illustrations of dancers and acrobats, sold for £28,024 in 2012. In 2023, a collection of 23 similar prints sold for £27,199, demonstrating the appreciating popularity of these images, now synonymous with Buffet’s name.
The record price achieved by a single Buffet print at auction is £86,080. Circus Dancer sold in 2012, with an estimate of less than £4,000. The piece, capturing a long-limbed female dancer, poised and ready to perform, is quintessential of Buffet’s style. Artist proofs and low edition numbers are usually responsible for unexpectedly high sales values like this one; but crucially, this print was neither. Instead, it was simply a case of finding the right collector at the right time.
Buffet’s Parisian scenes proved incredibly popular in the 1980s and 1990s, with the Paravent (1967) folding screen achieving £75,000 at auction in 1989. Prints such as Le Sacré-Coeur (1965) and Place Saint-Germain-Des-Prés (1965) appeared frequently at auction, selling as part of pairs or portfolios of Paris prints for upwards of £50,000. In more recent years, complete Paris portfolios have sold for less: a 1962 portfolio sold in 2019 for £19,221, and the Paravent (1967) folding screen sold in 2021 for £19,458. These sales, although smaller in value, do represent a gradually renewed interest in Buffet’s cityscapes, with values beginning to rise after a dip in the early 2000s.
The market for Buffet's prints demonstrates particular interest from collectors in Europe, North America, and increasingly, Asia. This global demand has contributed to the general appreciation of his print works, giving sellers of Buffet prints vast opportunities to find the right buyers.
How Do You Authenticate a Bernard Buffet Print?
Attracting serious collectors requires sellers to authenticate their print and cement its value. The process typically begins with a thorough examination of the print's provenance, tracing its history of ownership and exhibition. Any documentation, such as certificates of authenticity, gallery receipts, or correspondence related to the print, will be invaluable in establishing its legitimacy.
The definitive resource for authenticating Buffet's work is the catalogue raisonné compiled by Maurice Garnier, Buffet's long-time dealer and friend. This comprehensive catalogue documents Buffet's painted works, with information about related prints. The catalogue compiled by Charles Sorlier, as an alternative, focuses specifically on Buffet’s lithographs, providing detailed information on techniques, editions, and variations. Comparing your print to the entries in these catalogues is vital to the authentication process.
Buffet'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 Buffet's Mon Cirque (1968) lithographs were printed by the Mourlot studio in Paris and bear their distinctive stamp.
Technical analysis of the print itself is also crucial. Buffet used high-quality papers for his prints, including Arches and Rives BFK. Understanding the characteristics of these materials and their composition is essential: check for deckled edges, percentage cotton, size and depth of grain, and any watermarks.
For definitive authentication of your Buffet print, consult with a recognised Buffet scholar or reputable art dealer specialising in 20th century French art. These experts can provide in-depth analysis of the print's paper, ink, and technique that goes beyond what meets the eye, and thorough evaluation of provenance, determining its place within Buffet's body of work.
Edition & Signature
Bernard Buffet's approach to signing and numbering his prints was generally consistent throughout his career, but variations exist. His signature, characteristically angular and often incorporating the year of creation, typically appears in pencil in the lower margin of the print. Some prints will feature a signed stamp with a more uniform signature. The edition number is usually found in the lower right, written as a fraction (e.g., 75/150).
Buffet's print editions varied in size, with some limited to as few as 30 copies, while others reached 150 or more. Artist's proofs, often marked “E.A.” (épreuve d'artiste), are highly sought after by collectors and tend to achieve higher sale prices.
To confidently verify the signature and edition number on your Buffet print, we recommend consulting with an expert, as well as the catalogue raisonné of prints. By doing so, you can ensure they both match expectations.
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Has Your Bernard Buffet Print Been Kept in Good Condition?
The more effectively the stark lines, rich colours, and bold contrasts of Buffet’s prints have been preserved, the higher the value you can expect to achieve. Keeping your print in good condition requires ongoing efforts. Ideally, prints should be kept flat, in acid-free portfolios, away from direct sunlight and fluctuating humidity. If framed, always use UV-protective glass and acid-free matting to prevent light damage and acid migration.
Even with careful storage and handling, some damage can occur, particularly during recommended regular inspections or when the print changes hands. You should examine the paper for any signs of damage or ageing. Look for discolouration, foxing, or acid burn, particularly around the edges. Buffet used high-quality, acid-free papers for his prints, including Arches and Rives BFK, known for their durability and texture. These papers, while generally resistant to degradation, can still be affected by environmental factors over time.
Colour retention is particularly important for Buffet's circus prints, due to their vibrant colour palettes built on sharp contrast. These prints, along with much of Buffet’s print portfolio, are lithographs, and the inks used can be susceptible to fading in direct sunlight or harsh artificial light. Keep your lithographs appropriately sheltered.
For Buffet's etchings, which often feature areas of fine details, it's important to check for any loss of definition. The delicate embossing created by the etching process should be intact, as this tactile quality is an integral part of the print's character and is valued by collectors.
Check for any surface imperfections such as creases, scratches, or indentations. Pay special attention to the edges and corners, particularly if deckled, as these areas are most prone to wear. Examine the print under raking light to detect any such issues, as well as any undulations in the paper that might indicate past water damage or improper storage.
For a thorough assessment, consider consulting a paper conservator specialising in 20th century prints. They can provide a detailed condition report and advise on any necessary conservation measures. Remember that while minor imperfections might be acceptable given the age of some prints, significant damage or alterations can substantially decrease value.
For advice on how to get started with condition assessment of your Bernard Buffet print, contact MyArtBroker.
When is the Best Time to Sell My Bernard Buffet Print?
As the market fluctuates, opting to sell your Buffet print at the wrong time can be detrimental to the final sale price. To prevent this from happening, ensure you stay abreast of trends in Buffet’s market, post-war French art, and the art market more broadly.
One of the most significant influences on the print sale market is the schedule of major exhibitions or retrospectives of Buffet's work. The increased attention these events generate can have a hugely positive impact on sales values. For example, the comprehensive retrospective at the Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris in 2016 sparked renewed international attention on Buffet's work. An exhibition in 2012 at the Bernard Buffet Museum in Japan sparked a series of high-value print sales across Asia, including the record sale of Circus Dancer. Anniversary years related to significant moments in Buffet's career can also create opportune selling moments. For instance, 2028 will mark the centenary of Buffet's birth, which is likely to spark renewed interest in his work across all media, including prints.
We recommend using the sales results and value trajectory reports freely available on auction house websites to track the performance of Buffet prints. These can provide insights into which series or periods of Buffet's printmaking are currently in highest demand. For instance, if there's a surge of interest in prints of Buffet's clowns, it might be an opportune time to sell works from that theme.
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 Bernard Buffet Print?
Selling a Bernard Buffet Via a Broker
Engaging a private broker or dealer offers a more personalised approach to selling a Bernard Buffet print. These art market professionals can develop tailored sales strategies based on their understanding of the Buffet market and their networks of collectors interested in post-war French art. Brokers offer the advantage of discretion, potentially quicker sales, and personalised advice throughout the transaction. This route can be particularly effective for prints that might appeal to specific collectors, such as those focused on Buffet's particular themes or periods. Working with a broker typically involves lower fees compared to auction houses, 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 in positioning your print effectively and reaching the right collectors. When choosing a broker, look for those with a proven track record in handling Buffet's work and a deep understanding of the market for post-war European prints.
Selling a Bernard Buffet Via Auction House
Major auction houses like Christie's, Sotheby's, and Phillips regularly feature Bernard Buffet's work in their modern and contemporary art sales, offering a global platform for your print. These prestigious institutions leverage their extensive networks and marketing prowess to attract serious collectors from around the world, particularly from Asia and Europe where Buffet's work is highly valued. The competitive atmosphere of a live auction, and the pool of qualified buyers, can be advantageous for rare or historically significant Buffet prints, potentially driving prices higher than initially estimated. There's also prestige associated with major auction houses, which can be beneficial for high-value Buffet prints. 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 also have limited control over the timing and presentation of the sale. For high-value Buffet prints, particularly rare early works or complete portfolios, the auction route can be highly effective. Auction houses have the expertise to properly contextualise Buffet's work within the broader spectrum of post-war European art. 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 Bernard Buffet Via Online Marketplace
Online art marketplaces have grown in popularity, offering a platform for sellers to reach a global audience of art enthusiasts and collectors. These digital venues can be effective for more accessible Buffet prints, providing an opportunity for quick sales with lower fees compared to traditional channels. Online platforms allow you to control the listing details and pricing, with tools for showcasing high-quality 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 authentication concerns are more pronounced in the online space. If considering an online marketplace for a Buffet print, opt for specialised platforms that focus on fine art and have robust verification processes. These platforms are more likely to attract serious collectors and provide the necessary security measures for high-value transactions. For high-value or rare Buffet works, the online marketplace should be approached with caution. While it can be an effective option for more modestly priced prints, it may not provide the level of expertise and targeted marketing that traditional auction houses or specialist brokers can offer for significant pieces.
Why Sell Your Bernard Buffet 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.
Bernard Buffet 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.
Bernard Buffet
20 works
