A modest purchase at an
The painting, titled
The Significance of the Dead Heads Series
The Dead Heads series, produced by Bowie between 1995 and 1997, consists of approximately 47 works on canvas. Each piece is identified by a non-sequential Roman numeral, and the subjects of these portraits include a variety of acquaintances, band members, and friends, alongside potential self-portraits. D Head XLVI, which features a profile with long hair, reflects the energetic and enigmatic style characteristic of the collection. While the identity of the specific sitter remains unconfirmed, the painting is considered a rare example of Bowie’s visual output, which often remains secondary to his extensive musical career in the public consciousness.
Bowie’s interest in the visual arts was long-standing, rooted in his early studies of art and design. His work as a painter was heavily influenced by twentieth-century movements, including German expressionism and the London School of painters, such as Francis Bacon. Because his paintings rarely appear on the open market, the discovery of this piece in a Northern Ontario donation centre generated significant interest among collectors and media outlets worldwide.
Auction Performance and Provenance
Prior to the auction held by Cowley Abbott, the painting had been assigned a pre-sale estimate of C$9,000 to C$12,000. The uncertainty surrounding a piece with such an unconventional provenance led to cautious initial expectations. However, bidding quickly surpassed these figures, with the final price reaching nearly ten times the high end of the estimate. The sale highlighted the critical importance of provenance and authentication in the art market, as the simple label on the reverse of the canvas served as the vital clue that unlocked the history of the work.
The outcome of the sale underscored the enduring appeal of Bowie’s creative legacy, both in music and the visual arts. For the art community, the discovery served as a reminder of the potential for significant historical items to be found in unexpected locations. The record-setting sale remains a notable event in the history of Bowie’s visual works, confirming the high value collectors place on his rare contributions to fine art.
