Druillet revisits the Isle of the Dead

[Pierre Tavlitzki]

The drawings made for albums of comics were some working artefacts for the pioneers as Hergé or Franquin. Then they became works of art. A new market was born recently in this area. The fans now struggle for the original drawings of Uderzo, Hugo Pratt, Tardi, Moebius, Enki Bilal and many others.

As a sign of dynamism, the results of the sales often far exceed the estimates, and fans praise works that experts had not necessarily put at the top of their hierarchy.

In 1977, Philippe Druillet designed for an album two full page drawings in ink and gouache, which will be sold separately at lots 184 and 185 in the sale of Millon et Associés salle Drouot in Paris on November 15. There is everything that appeals to fans: the subtlety and precision of drawing, the fantastic subject, the reference to a star work of art history and the reputation of Druillet, who is a steady value for this new market.

As in the Isle of the Dead of Arnold Böcklin and so attributed in the title, a mountain stands in the middle of the sea. It has an anthropomorphic face, and a huge open mouth devours the living ones. The second picture shows two characters who entered the Isle of the Dead. Viewed from Inside, this unlimited hall reminds me the Carceri of Piranesi.

For each of these large drawings (101 x 66 cm), prepare 40 K €. But read also what I wrote above : what is the meaning of the estimates?

[Pierre Tavlitzki]

It is a real pleasure to welcome a particularly intelligent outcome. Both drawings were eventually sold together for 206 K € fees included.

The market for comics in France is still in perfect health.