The Facts
Bonhams will present a rare gilt-bronze sculpture by Benedict Chukwukadibia Enwonwu, titled 'Anyanwu', as the lead lot in its Modern and Contemporary African Art sale on Wednesday 21 October at its New Bond Street, London saleroom. Originally acquired from the artist's family and offered at auction for the first time, the work carries an estimate of £500,000-800,000. According to Bonhams, only two other known versions exist: one at the National Museum in Lagos and another sold by Bonhams in 2017, now in a private collection. Additional highlights include Yusuf Adebayo Cameron Grillo's 'One Man Band' (estimate: £250,000-350,000) and works by Irma Stern and Uzo Egonu.
The Signal
'Anyanwu' represents a benchmark for the African art market, given its cultural significance as a symbol of post-independence Nigerian identity. The sculpture's monumental scale, rarity, and direct link to the artist's estate make it a trophy piece for institutional or private collectors focused on modern African art. Its estimate, among the highest for an Enwonwu work at auction, signals sustained demand for canonical African modernist works, particularly those with proven institutional provenance, such as the UN version.
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- Artists: Benedict Chukwukadibia Enwonwu, Yusuf Adebayo Cameron Grillo, Irma Stern, Uzo Egonu
- People: Giles Peppiatt
- Auction Houses: Bonhams
- Museums: National Museum, Lagos
- Locations: London, Lagos
- Prices: £500,000 - 800,000, £250,000 - 350,000, £70,000 - 100,000, £60,000 - 90,000
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