A rare early painting by Jean-Michel Basquiat will be the highlight of Sotheby’s upcoming Contemporary Auctions in New York, with an estimated value between $10 million and $15 million. The artwork, which dates back to the early 1980s, is expected to draw significant attention from collectors and art enthusiasts alike.

Basquiat, known for his bold, expressive style and vibrant use of color, has become one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. His works often explore themes of race, identity, and societal struggles, and his distinctive style has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, leading to record-breaking auction prices.

This particular piece, which has remained in private hands for several decades, is regarded as a significant example of Basquiat’s early career, showcasing the raw energy and emotive power that would define his later works. Sotheby’s is confident that the painting will attract high-profile bids, given the artist’s continued prominence in the contemporary art market.

The auction house has described the Basquiat as a “masterpiece” and a key representation of the artist’s unique approach to combining text, imagery, and abstraction. Its inclusion in the upcoming auction is seen as a major draw for collectors, as works from this early period are rare and highly sought after.

Basquiat’s works have consistently performed well at auction, with several of his pieces fetching tens of millions of dollars in recent years. This upcoming sale is expected to further solidify his place among the most valuable and revered artists in the world.

The New York auction, scheduled for later this spring, will feature a variety of other significant contemporary works, but Basquiat’s piece is set to lead the event, both in terms of estimated value and cultural significance.

In recent years, Sotheby’s has made a name for itself as a leading venue for high-profile contemporary art sales, and this auction is expected to be no exception. As the Basquiat piece nears the auction block, anticipation is growing among art collectors and investors alike, eager to see how much this rare work will command.

Given the ongoing demand for Basquiat’s art, experts predict that the painting could exceed its estimate, further cementing the artist’s legacy and influence in the contemporary art world.