Robert Ryman Painting Expected to Fetch €1.5 Million at Auction

A minimalist white canvas by American artist Robert Ryman, valued between 1 to 1.5 million euros, is set for auction at Ketterer Kunst in Berlin on December 6 and 7. This 1970 piece, titled 'General 52' x 52'', appears blank but is actually crafted with white enamel and enamelac, making it so delicate that it cannot be transported for viewing. Ryman, who had no formal art training and worked as a jazz pianist and security guard, is known for his experimental works that often spark debate within the art community. Auction house expert Simone Wichmann emphasizes that the white color evokes light and challenges viewers to engage with the art. This auction follows recent controversial sales, including a banana duct-taped to a wall that sold for $6.2 million and was eaten by its buyer, crypto entrepreneur Justin Sun. Ryman's work, while often divisive, has garnered significant acclaim and high prices in the art market.