Museum Art Reproductions Three Studies of Lucian Freud, left, 1969 by Francis Bacon (Inspired By) (1909-1992, Ireland) | WahooArt.com

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"Three Studies of Lucian Freud, left"

Francis Bacon (i) - 1969

Francis Bacon's Three Studies of Lucian Freud, Left, completed in 1969, is a remarkable oil-on-canvas triptych that exemplifies the artist's unique ability to distort reality while capturing the essence of his subject. This masterpiece, which sold for a record-breaking US$142.4 million at auction in 2013, offers an intriguing glimpse into the complex relationship between Bacon and his fellow artist, Lucian Freud.

Artistic Rivals and Close Friends

Bacon and Freud were introduced in 1945 by artist Graham Sutherland and quickly became close friends who met frequently. Their friendship was built on mutual respect and admiration for each other's work, but it was also marked by a healthy sense of competition. The two artists painted each other several times, with Bacon creating two full-length triptychs of Freud: the first in 1966 and the second, Three Studies of Lucian Freud, Left, in 1969.

Bacon's Distorted yet Intimate Portrayal

In all three panels of this triptych, Bacon employs his signature abstract and distorted style to depict Freud sitting on a cane-bottomed wooden chair within a cage. The use of the cage is particularly significant, as it symbolizes the confines of human existence and the struggle for freedom. Each figure is set against a solid orange background, with a headboard of a bed visible behind them, referencing a series of photographs taken by John Deakin.

A Marriage of Important People in Bacon's Life

Brett Gorvy of Christie's describes the work as "a marriage of the incredibly important people in Bacon's life." The central panel, which portrays Freud face-on in a pose similar to that used for George Dyer, Bacon's lover, highlights this connection. The three canvases are identical in size and individually framed, with a brighter color palette than is typical of Bacon's works.

A True Masterpiece

Francis Outred of Christie's calls the 1969 triptych "a true masterpiece" and "an undeniable icon of 20th Century art." It is not only a testament to Bacon's artistic genius but also a poignant representation of his relationship with Freud. To learn more about Francis Bacon and other influential artists, visit our or explore our extensive collection of oil paintings at WahooArt.com.

 





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