A-ARTs: For over N41m, Enwonwu’s 'Ogolo' leads Arthouse auction in Lagos

Ben Enwonwu’s ‘Ogolo’ (1992, Watercolour on paper, 81.5 x 58 cm).

With 82 lots by leading masters and contemporary artists, the auction recorded total sales of N103,775,000 ($288,264). Held on Monday, at Kia Motors Showroom, Victoria Island, Lagos the top sale of the evening was Ben Enwonwu’s 'Ogolo', a watercolour on paper dated 1992 and sold for N41,125,000m ($114,236).

According to a statement from Arthouse, Enwonwu’s 'Negritude', another watercolour on paper dated 1994, sold for N9.4m ($26,111).

Other sales included Rom Isichei’s 'Hope Enkindles Her Eyes', a mixed media on canvas (2018), sold for N6.462m ($17,951); Ablade Glover’s Blue Profile, an oil on canvas (2015), N5,287,500 ($14,688); and Kolade Oshinowo’s Back Home, a 2008 oil on canvas, N4,112,500 ($11,424).

The auction also included charity lots in support of the Lagos Biennial, raising N2.20m for the second edition taking place later this year.

Founded in 2007, Arthouse Contemporary is an international auction house that specialises in modern and contemporary art from West Africa. With auctions held twice a year in Lagos, Arthouse Contemporary aims to create awareness of the scope of contemporary art in the region, encourage international recognition towards its talented artists, and strengthen the economy of its art market.

Arthouse Contemporary is proudly supported by Kia Showroom, Le Connaisseur, 7UP, Chocolat Royal and The Guardian.

Art on chessboard with Tunde Onakoya, Lanre Olagoke