L’Enfant A La Lampe © Pierre Bonnard 1897
Pierre Bonnard
20 works
Key Takeaways
Pierre Bonnard's Post-Impressionist prints continue to captivate the art market, with individual works typically fetching between £5,000 and £25,000. His most sought-after lithographs, particularly those from the Nabis period, can command even higher prices. La Promenade Des Nourrices, Frise De Fiacres (1899), a quadriptych, achieved a record £229,740 at auction in 1989. Authentication requires careful examination of provenance, printing technique, and reference to catalogues raisonnés by Claude Roger-Marx and Francis Bouvet. Bonnard's experimental use of colour 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.
Pierre Bonnard painted from memory, creating art that was critical to the transition from Impressionism to Modernism in the late 1800s. His work is a unique bridge between the two movements, combining elements of both. In his lithographs and woodcuts, Bonnard captured the Impressionist focus on colour and light, while embracing more modern approaches to composition and subject matter. If you are looking to part with your Bonnard print, use this guide to navigate the market, and gain insight into valuation, authentication, and effective selling strategies.
Bonnard's artistic vision was shaped by his involvement with the Nabis group. His prints often capture the same subjects as his paintings: sun-drenched interiors, lush gardens, and intimate portraits of his wife, Marthe. Bonnard's printmaking practice was characterised by his experimental approach to colour lithography, often using multiple stones to achieve complex, layered hues.
How Much Do Pierre Bonnard Prints Sell For?
Bonnard’s historical and artistic significance is reflected in the sometimes six-figure print sales. Individual prints by Bonnard typically fetch between £5,000 and £25,000, with particular prints regularly achieving double this.
Bonnard's lithographs from the 1890s and early 1900s, particularly those associated with the Nabis movement, are highly prized by collectors. For example, his print La Petite Blanchisseuse (1896) is a regular favourite. In the past few decades, it has appeared multiple times at auction, selling for £72,225 in 1999 (almost double its high estimate), £57,572 in 2011, and £33,391 in 2021. A collection of 13 prints from the same era (1899), Quelques Aspects De La Vie De Paris, depicting various aspects of the city of Paris, sold for £101,300 in 1992. Prints in this collection are some of Bonnard’s most recognisable and typical of his style, including Boulevard, Avenue Du Bois, Au Théâtre, and Coin De Rue (all 1899).
The record price achieved by a collection of Bonnard prints is held by La Promenade Des Nourrices, Frise De Fiacres (1899), a quadriptych comprising four hinged lithograph panels. It sold for £229,740 in 1989, nearly five times its high estimate. Another four panels from the same edition then sold again for £123,426, six times its high estimate, in 2013.
Bonnard is known for his depictions of intimate family or domestic scenes. The softness of his style complements the softness of the ‘home.’ Prints such as L'Enfant à La Lampe (1897) and Maison Dans La Cour (1899) regularly achieve more than £10,000 at auction. A collection of 19 family scenes, rendered in black and white, sold for nearly £20,000 in 1998.
Bonnard's book illustrations also perform well at auction. Complete sets of prints from books can achieve prices in excess of £20,000. In 2010, a complete set of the 158 lithographs for Daphnis et Chloé sold for £26,000 at Christie’s London, underscoring the enduring appeal of Bonnard's work in this medium.
How Do You Authenticate a Pierre Bonnard Print?
When establishing the authenticity of your Bonnard print, you should ensure that there is a clear trail of documentation that explains the origins and subsequent sales and exhibitions of the piece. For instance, when a print is sold at auction, buyers will be able to see what particular collections the piece has been a part of. The print of Le Petite Blanchisseuse (1896) that sold in Paris 1999 was, for example, a part of the collection of art dealer Henri M. Petite. Verified associations with prestigious names such as this will greatly aid in proving legitimacy.
You should also be aware of where the print is placed in any catalogue raisonné of Bonnard’s prints. The catalogue of Bonnard’s lithographs by Claude Roger-Marx and Francis Bouvet’s catalogue of Bonnard’s graphic works would both be valuable resources. Catalogues such as these will provide detailed information on printing techniques, edition sizes, and any variations that exist.
As Bonnard worked with a number of prestigious printers and publishers, including Ambroise Vollard and Auguste Clot, you should also look out for any stamps or certificates of authenticity that have been included at the point of creation. The stamp of Auguste Clot is particularly valuable to knowledgeable collectors of Bonnard’s work, due to his known involvement with the Nabis movement in Paris.
Edition & Signature
All of Pierre Bonnard’s prints bear some sort of signature, often written in cursive, in pencil, in the lower right corner of the margin. This will often be accompanied by the edition number written as a fraction. His earlier Nabis prints, however, sometimes featured his signature as a monogram “PB,” or as “BONNARD,” in capital letters. Prints produced before 1920 do not always bear an edition number, making tracing their place within each edition a little more challenging. Generally, editions are between 25 and 100.
Prints that were originally published in books or portfolios may not be individually signed or numbered. These pieces are more valuable when sold as part of their original collection, as they can be more easily verified as a whole. The presence of publisher’s information is particularly important for the authentication of these prints.
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Has Your Pierre Bonnard Print Been Kept in Good Condition?
Bonnard's prints are known for their subtle colour harmonies and delicate details, which means that any deterioration could potentially be detrimental to the work's overall impact. Keeping your print in good condition is, therefore, crucial to achieving the best possible sale price. When assessing your print, check for any signs of damage or ageing. Look for discolouration, foxing (brown spots caused by oxidation), or acid burn, particularly around the edges. Bonnard often used high-quality, handmade papers for his prints, including Japanese papers known for their texture and durability. However, even these can be affected by environmental factors over time.
Bonnard is known as one of the most significant colourists of the 20th century; as a result, prints should be particularly protected from fading and colour shift. This is particularly important for his later works, where he pushed the boundaries of colour lithography. Exposure to direct sunlight or improper lighting can cause these vibrant hues to fade over time.
Check for any surface imperfections such as creases, tears, or indentations. Pay special attention to the margins of the print, as these areas are often prone to damage. Untrimmed margins can be a sign of a well-preserved print and can enhance its value.
Proper storage and display are essential for maintaining a Bonnard print in good condition. Ideally, prints should be kept in acid-free portfolios, away from direct sunlight and fluctuating humidity. If framed, UV-protective glass and acid-free matting are recommended to prevent light damage and acid migration.
It's worth noting that Bonnard's experimental approach to printmaking sometimes resulted in variations within editions. What might appear to be an imperfection could, in some cases, be an intentional part of the artist's process.
For advice on how to get started with condition assessment of your Pierre Bonnard print, contact MyArtBroker.
When is the Best Time to Sell My Pierre Bonnard Print?
Seeking the advice of an expert in Bonnard’s work will be essential to determining the best time to sell your print. They will be able to help you achieve a fair price. However, there are key events and market changes to look out for. Major exhibitions or retrospectives of Bonnard's work are likely to generate increased interest. For example, the comprehensive retrospective at the Tate Modern in 2019, Pierre Bonnard: The Colour of Memory, sparked renewed international attention on Bonnard's work. In the months following this exhibition, several high-profile sales of Bonnard prints occurred, confirming the correlation between major shows and market activity.
Anniversary years related to significant moments in Bonnard's career can also create opportune selling moments. For instance, 2020 marked the 100th anniversary of Bonnard's first solo exhibition in America, an event that significantly boosted his international reputation. Such milestones often prompt increased scholarly and public interest, potentially influencing the market.
We recommend keeping an eye on broader trends in the art market, particularly those related to Post-Impressionism and early Modernism. Surges of interest in these areas can have an effect on the sales performance of individual artists. The best way to keep on top of market trends is by monitoring sales results and value trajectory reports from major auction houses. These are freely available on auction house websites and may provide insights into which periods or techniques of Bonnard's printmaking are currently in highest demand. For instance, if there's a surge of interest in Bonnard's Nabis-period prints, it might be an opportune time to sell works from that era.
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 Pierre Bonnard Print?
Selling a Pierre Bonnard Via a Broker
Art brokers specialising in Post-Impressionist prints offer a personalised approach to selling Bonnard's works. They craft tailored strategies based on deep market knowledge and cultivated collector relationships. This route provides discretion, potentially faster sales, and individualised guidance throughout the process. Brokers often charge lower fees than auction houses between 10% and 15%, and can be particularly effective for prints appealing to niche collectors, such as those interested in Bonnard's Nabis period or book illustrations. Their expertise can be invaluable in positioning your print effectively and connecting with the right buyers. When selecting a broker, prioritise those with a proven history of handling Bonnard's work and comprehensive understanding of early 20th-century European prints. Evaluate their track record, client testimonials, and specific experience with Bonnard's various printing techniques and periods.
Selling a Pierre Bonnard Via Auction House
Renowned auction houses offer a global stage for Bonnard's prints, attracting collectors worldwide. These institutions excel at marketing and contextualising works within art history, potentially driving prices upward through competitive bidding. Their thorough cataloguing and condition reports lend credibility to a print's authenticity and value. However, this route involves substantial fees and inherent unpredictability. Your print might exceed expectations or fail to meet its reserve. Sellers have limited control over timing and presentation, as these are dictated by the auction house's calendar and procedures. For rare or historically significant Bonnard prints, particularly those with notable provenance, auctions can be highly effective. Yet, it's essential to fully grasp the consignment terms and associated costs before choosing this path, as seller fees can be as high as 25% of the hammer price. Consider how your print aligns with current market trends and the auction house's specific expertise in Post-Impressionist works.
To learn more, read our guide to Auction v Private Sale in the Art Market.
Selling a Pierre Bonnard Via Online Marketplace
Digital art platforms have expanded selling options, offering access to a global audience of collectors and enthusiasts. These venues can be suitable for more accessible Bonnard prints, potentially enabling quicker sales with reduced fees compared to traditional channels. Online marketplaces allow sellers to control listing details and pricing, providing tools for high-quality image presentation and comprehensive descriptions. However, selling valuable artworks online presents unique challenges. There's a risk of undervaluation and difficulty in standing out among numerous listings. Authentication issues are also more prevalent in the digital sphere. For high-value or rare Bonnard prints, approach online sales cautiously. If considering this route, choose specialised fine art platforms with robust verification processes. These are more likely to attract serious collectors and offer necessary security measures for significant transactions. Always prioritise sites that demonstrate expertise in handling works by established artists like Bonnard and can provide appropriate support throughout the sales process.
Why Sell Your Pierre Bonnard 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.
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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.
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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.
Pierre Bonnard 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.
