Gerhard Richter is a German visual artist recognized for his diverse practice that oscillates between photorealistic paintings and complex abstract compositions. He is widely noted for his technical versatility across painting, photography, and glass installations.
Born in Dresden, Germany, Gerhard Richter emerged as a central figure in contemporary art following his move to West Germany in the early 1960s. He studied at the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf, where he developed his signature approach to image-making, often blurring the lines between photography and traditional painting techniques.
Richter is best known for his Photo-paintings, which utilize photographic source material to explore the nature of perception and memory. His body of work also includes expansive abstract canvases characterized by layered, scraped paint, as well as structural glass works that engage with the surrounding architectural environment.
His work remains a staple of the international secondary market, frequently appearing in major 20th-century and contemporary art auctions globally. His influence persists through institutional recognition and his continued presence in high-profile sales and private collections worldwide.
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On October 14, 2026, Christie's announced that its London 20/21 Evening Sales generated £218,603,400 ($289,430,902), a 103% increase year over year. The combined sales, held at King Street, achieved sell-through rates of 91% by lot and 96% by value.
Phillips announced on October 15, 2026, that a 100%-sold auction was led by Gerhard Richter's 'Mathis' from the collection of Marcel Brient. The sale set new artist records for Joseph Yaeger and Eva Helene Pade.
On October 6, 2026, Louisiana Museum of Modern Art announced "Dreams Have No Title" (Les rêves n’ont pas de titre), a comprehensive presentation of its permanent collection.
On October 5, 2026, Christie's announced its October 20/21 Marquee Week, a series of seven evening, day and online auctions taking place live at King Street in London from 14–16 October 2026 during Frieze Week, with online sales running from 1–21 October.
On October 6, 2026, Louisiana Museum of Modern Art announced a new collection exhibition, “Les rêves n’ont pas de titre – Dreams have no title,” curated by director Poul Erik Tøjner.
On September 11, 2026, Phillips announced a group of three exceptional paintings by Gerhard Richter, Zao Wou-Ki, and Zeng Fanzhi, describing the works as distinguished by prestigious provenance and rare compositions that mark defining moments in each artist's oeuvre.
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