Icons

Icons traces the extraordinary heritage of the international auction house Sotheby’s through 100 of the most significant works sold under its banner. With works spanning across history and mediums—from a 67-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus rex to Maurizio Cattelan’s infamous banana—this engaging book offers readers an exclusive glimpse into the journey of each artwork through its arrival in Sotheby’s salesroom.

The presentation of these exceptional objects, from some of the most prestigious collections entrusted to Sotheby’s, gives behind-the-scenes access to pivotal moments in art-market history. From national icons such as the Constitution to auction sensations such as Banksy’s unforgettable, partially shredded Girl Without Balloon, each prized work is shown as a large-format image accompanied by an informative text written by Sotheby’s specialists.

Select entries also include contextual images—such as the work shown in situ or on the auction floor—as well as immersive quotes from curators, critics in the field, and the Sotheby’s specialists who brought them to sale.

From rediscoveries to record-breaking lots and "white glove" auctions, every object sold through Sotheby’s has a riveting story to tell. Published to coincide with Sotheby’s marquee move back to the Breuer—a landmark of the New York art scene, having previously belonged to the Whitney Museum of American Art, and later the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Frick Collection—Icons highlights the legacy of the auction house through the masterpieces it has had the privilege of stewarding.