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The first time that an example of Elie Lambert’s work was consigned to Christie’s, it was given the prestigious back cover of a sale catalogue - a rare  occurrence for a name and hand that had yet to be tested on the open market. Indeed, as none of the auction house specialists knew of the enigmatic artist, the decision was made on the strength of the image and quality of the work alone. It was a commercially astute call: the picture made over twice the top estimate.

 

Like the personality of the artist, Elie Lambert’s canvases are large and colourful. They are also unique, mesmerising, highly recognisable, and endowed with the power to lift the spirits of any viewer - as great art so often does. Sold in the Sporting Art Sales at Christie’s, Elie Lambert and Sir Alfred Munnings have been the two key painters in the category whose prices have noticeably risen in the past 12 years, since Elie’s work was first offered at auction.

 

On the surface, little visual connection is apparent between the two, except a shared love and understanding of horses, and a passion for racing. However, the two hands share some central qualities, that elevate them above the realms of the average, thrusting them towards the great names of art history.

 

Firstly, works by Lambert and Munnings are highly recognisable. From Picasso to Warhol, Constable to Rubens, and Hockney to Monet, the greatest - and most commercially successful - artists produced works that are highly distinctive and recognisable.

 

Secondly, both painters fall outside the narrow (and often limiting) categorisations that artists can be restrained by: both have a far-reaching appeal that transcends specific markets - in this case ‘sporting art’. Indeed, a key part of their strength is that they appeal to buyers and collectors who have little or no interest in racing or horses, as well as aficionados and weathered enthusiasts. It is revealing to note that buyers with interests in Contemporary, Impressionist, Modern, Old Master and 19th Century art have purchased works by Lambert.

 

As charismatic and vibrant as the artist himself, Elie Lambert’s paintings sit equally well in both traditional and modern interiors, which perhaps gives another answer as to his broad appeal, the growth of his market, and eclectic spectrum of collectors.

 

I hope you enjoy viewing this catalogue, and find the paintings as immersing and captivating as I do. Should you have any questions, or I can be of any assistance whatsoever, please don’t hesitate to contact me. 

 

 

Tom Rooth 

Director