Art Of The Day Weekly

Three centuries of Switzerland

ZURICH – If you were asked to name Swiss artists you would immediately think of Hodler, Giacometti and Tinguely, who at different eras conquered a world reputation. But this little country (which would be much bigger if it were ironed, as Godard claims teasingly) has an influence that is far superior to its area or its demographic weight. This auction draws a sort of history that goes back to the 18th century with landscapes by Johannes Meyer II , goes through the 19th century with Alexandre Calame, Auguste Veillon or Segantini, and focuses most of its efforts on the 20th century. While Alberto Giacometti is present, he is only one of the members of the tribe, next to his father Giacomo and his uncle Augusto. If there is one field in which Switzeralnd played a pioneer role it is giving recognition to art brut: the presence of Aloïse, of Wolffli or of Soutter demonstrates this - if it were still necessary. The greater part of the works presented come from the collection of the art merchant Jan Krugier, and include a few surprises such as a letter illustrated by Tinguely. He had accustomed us to huge black and grey machines but shows he was just as capable of colourful explosions.
• Swiss Art 2 December 2014 at Sotheby’s

Know more