The Bell Tower
The Bell Tower
Signed Print
David Hockney
£1,750-£2,600
$3,400-$5,000 Value Indicator
$3,100-$4,600 Value Indicator
¥16,000-¥24,000 Value Indicator
€2,100-€3,100 Value Indicator
$17,000-$26,000 Value Indicator
¥340,000-¥510,000 Value Indicator
$2,200-$3,300 Value Indicator
AAGR (5 years) This estimate blends recent public auction records with our own private sale data and network demand.
There aren't enough data points on this work for a comprehensive result. Please speak to a specialist by making an enquiry.
Medium: Etching
Edition size: 100
Year: 1969
Size: H 27cm x W 17cm
Signed: Yes
Format: Signed Print
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Auction Results
| Auction Date | Auction House | Artwork | Hammer Price | Return to Seller | Buyer Paid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 2023 | Christie's London - United Kingdom | The Bell Tower - Signed Print | |||
| September 2021 | Sotheby's Online - United Kingdom | The Bell Tower - Signed Print | |||
| July 2020 | Expertisez.com - France | The Bell Tower - Signed Print | |||
| March 2016 | Rosebery's Fine Art Auctioneers - United Kingdom | The Bell Tower - Signed Print | |||
| January 2015 | Sworders - United Kingdom | The Bell Tower - Signed Print | |||
| May 2010 | Bonhams Knightsbridge - United Kingdom | The Bell Tower - Signed Print | |||
| March 2007 | Bonhams New Bond Street - United Kingdom | The Bell Tower - Signed Print |
Meaning & Analysis
The Bell Tower by David Hockney, created in 1969, is an etching with aquatint on Hodgkinson handmade paper. This print depicts a tall, solitary bell tower against a minimalist landscape. Part of Hockney's Illustrations for Six Fairy Tales from the Brothers Grimm, it showcases his intricate line work and attention to detail, demonstrating his exploration of narrative and illustration techniques.
The composition is dominated by the verticality of the bell tower, which stands in stark contrast to the sparse landscape. Hockney's precise line work captures the texture of the tower's roof and walls, while the delicate shading adds depth and dimension. The inclusion of a solitary tree and grass at the base provides a subtle counterpoint to the tower's rigidity. This piece is part of Hockney's Illustrations For Six Fairy Tales From The Brothers Grimm, a series that reflects his interest in storytelling and fairy tales. The minimalist approach and monochromatic palette enhance the timeless and somewhat eerie quality of the narrative. In this work, Hockney demonstrates his ability to convey complex narratives through simple, yet evocative imagery. The meticulous detail in The Bell Tower captures the essence of the Grimm tales, showcasing Hockney's skill in translating literary works into visual art.
