The esteemed German auction house, Ketterer, recently auctioned off a painting by American minimalist artist Robert Ryman. The painting, titled 'General', measured 52'' x 52'' and was estimated to fetch between €1-1.5 million. What's remarkable about this painting is that it is, quite literally, blank. The minimalist artwork features a white slab of plaster, devoid of any visible marks or strokes.
This piece is part of a series of works created by Ryman in the 1970s, characterized by his signature style of simplicity and conceptualism. The auction house described the painting as a reflection of the artist's essence, 'white, series, square, analytical, and conceptually perfect'.
The auction house proceeded to break down the significance of this seemingly empty canvas, stating that the absence of any visible marks or colors is what makes it truly profound. They argued that the very emptiness of the canvas is what puts the viewer in a position of contemplation, inviting them to consider the true nature of art.
Ryman's minimalist approach to art has long been met with critical acclaim, and this latest sale is a testament to the enduring value and appeal of his work.