Christie's Auction: Le théâtre de l’imaginaire, Collection Paul et Jacqueline Duchein

Christie’s Paris is gearing up to host a major auction event, showcasing “Le théâtre de l’imaginaire, Collection Paul et Jacqueline Duchein” scheduled for 24 September 2024.
This prestigious sale, which follows a public viewing period from 18 to 24 September, offers a unique opportunity for collectors, art historians, and enthusiasts to engage with one of the most eclectic and influential private art collections of the 20th century.

The story of Paul and Jacqueline Duchein is as captivating as the collection they amassed. Their journey began in 1938 in Montauban, where they met and formed a partnership that would profoundly impact the art world. Their home transformed into an informal museum, and became a celebrated cultural hub, complementing the existing Musée Ingres Bourdelle.

The Ducheins’ collection is renowned for its diverse and rich array of Surrealist works, alongside significant pieces of folk art, Art Brut, and tribal artefacts. This eclectic mix reflects their deep passion for art and their belief in its transformative power.

Paul Duchein, originally a pharmacist, later ventured into the realms of art criticism and curation. Jacqueline, a biologist, shared his enthusiasm for art, and together they built a collection that transcends conventional boundaries. Their home, filled with artistic treasures, was known for its unique and extensive collection, earning it recognition as Montauban’s second major museum. Their commitment to Surrealism is evident throughout their collection, which features a remarkable array of works by leading figures of the movement.

The upcoming auction is set to highlight over 150 pieces from this extraordinary collection, with an estimated total value between €4.6 and 7 million. Among the standout works are Max Ernst’s “Trois monstres ou La Horde,” an evocative oil painting from 1927 that exemplifies his surrealist vision, and Salvador Dalí’s surrealist compositions that captivate with their dreamlike quality.

These pieces are a testament to the Ducheins’ discerning eye and their dedication to preserving and celebrating the legacy of Surrealist art.

Paul and Jacqueline Duchein’s collection not only represents their artistic tastes but also plays a crucial role in the broader understanding of Surrealism and its impact on contemporary art.

The auction will take place at Christie’s on Avenue Matignon, with a second phase focusing on Art Brut, modern and contemporary works, and folk art scheduled for 26 and 27 September at Hôtel Drouot. This second phase will provide a further opportunity to explore and acquire works from a collection that has made a profound contribution to art scholarship and appreciation.

As Paris prepares to celebrate Surrealism’s centenary, Christie’s is honoured to facilitate this landmark event. The auction represents a rare chance to acquire masterpieces from a collection that has profoundly shaped the appreciation and scholarship of Surrealist art, offering a glimpse into the innovative and transformative world of Paul and Jacqueline Duchein. This extraordinary event promises to be a highlight of the art calendar, celebrating a century of Surrealist creativity and legacy.

PRACTICAL INFO
Collection Paul et Jacqueline Duchein. Le théâtre de l’imaginaire: Sale on 24 September
Viewing from 18 to 24 September 2024
Christie's France - 9, Avenue Matignon - 75008 Paris
The second part of the auction will take place at Giquello (Hôtel Drouot) on 26 and 27 September. The sale will mainly group Art Brut pieces, modern and contemporary art, and folk-art objects.