Alberto Giacommetti's bronze sculpture, 'Walking Man I,' has just out paced the competition. The haunting bronze statue made it's way just south of the previous high of $104.1 million paid for Picasso's 1905 painting, 'Boy With Pipe." at Sotheby's in 2004.
Buyers filled the crowded salesroom as the bidding commenced at 12 million for the sculpture, which Sotheby's officials expected to fetch 19 million to 29 million. The hammer fell at a whopping $104.3 million ($92.5 million before fees). The record price triples the previous high paid for Giacommetti's, 'Standing Woman II' from 1959-60, which sold for $27.4 million at a Christies suction in 2008.
The life sized 'Walking Man I' is considered a prized piece by the art community because of it's size, and the fact that only six were cast, along with 4 artist proofs. In addition, most of the editions are in private collections. The piece was sold by Dresdner Bank in Germany, which purchased it in 1980.
The mystery winning buyer bid by phone, so the speculation is swirling as to who it may be. Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure... life is good, but the living is better!
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