Drawing together influences from antiquities to Modernism, Los Angeles-based artist Matthew Monahan creates contemporary ‘relics’ that are simultaneously familiar and alien. His surreal, anthropomorphic creations quiver like artefacts excavated from future worlds, infused with mythology and magic. Executed in 2005, and included in the Saatchi Gallery’s exhibition USA Today at the Royal Academy of Arts the following year, Riker’s Island is an early example of this practice, featuring a variety of items and icons adorning a vitrine. The artist was particularly inspired by a trip to Tibet and Nepal during this period, where he observed the use of sculptural objects as a means to commune with the spiritual world. Monahan has since exhibited widely, staging solo shows at institutions including the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art, the Vancouver Contemporary Art Gallery and the Museo Nazionale Romano in Palazzo Altemps, Rome. His works are held in the collections of Tate, London and the Museum of Modern Art, New York, among others.
Related Articles
Sorry, we are unable to display this content. Please check your connection.
More from
Handpicked: 100 Works Selected by the Saatchi Gallery
You have agreed to be bound by the Conditions of Sale and if your bid is successful, you are legally obliged to pay for the lot you have won. The purchase price for a successful bid will be the sum of your final bid plus a buyer’s premium, any applicable taxes and any artist resale royalty, exclusive of shipping-related expenses.
Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
All elements are present. There are a few signs of wear in places to the large face element, primarily where it is affixed to the base. There are some signs of wear to the base. Subject to the foregoing, it is our view that the work appears to be in generally good condition.
Cost calculator
Lot 83Sale 19564
Riker's Island Matthew Monahan (b. 1972)Estimate: GBP 4,000 - 6,000
Enter your bid amount for an estimated cost
Bid amount
Please enter numbers onlyAmount must be higher than the starting bidAmount must be higher than the current bid
Buyer's premium
Loss, damage and liability
Shipping
Estimated Excise Duty
Artist Resale Royalty
Estimated total cost exclusive of customs duties/charges and tariffs