McTear’s Celebrates Record-Breaking Contemporary Art Sale

McTear’s has once again underlined its position at the heart of Scotland’s contemporary art scene, with impressive results at The Scottish Contemporary Art Auction.

Leading the charge was John Byrne’s oil on canvas, Love’s Arrow II (2011), which sold for an impressive £19,300 - more than three times its estimate.

John Bellany’s 1966 masterpiece, The Fish Gutter, achieved £16,700, marking one of the artist’s strongest results this year.

The sale also saw a new world auction record for John Lowrie Morrison (Jolomo), with his vibrant 2001 oil on canvas, The Birlinn Leaving the Uists, fetching £14,100. Widely regarded as Scotland’s most popular contemporary landscape painter, Jolomo’s record-breaking result further cements his standing among collectors.

Alongside these highlights, the 282 lot auction showcased works by some of Scotland’s most acclaimed artists, including Peter Howson, John Cunningham, Pam Carter, Graham McKean, Archie Forrest, and John Houston, amongst others. Buyers from across the UK and overseas competed vigorously, ensuring strong results across the board.

Commenting on the sale, our director, Brian Clements, said: “This was an exceptional auction that demonstrates the continuing strength and global appeal of Scottish contemporary art. We are particularly delighted to have achieved a world record for Jolomo, and to see such spirited bidding for Byrne and Bellany, two giants of modern Scottish painting.”

Over the past decade, we has built close relationships with Scotland’s leading contemporary artists, regularly achieving record-breaking results. The auction house continues to play a central role in placing Scottish art into the hands of international collectors, private galleries, and institutions worldwide.

All prices quoted include buyer’s commission and VAT thereon.

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We offer complimentary valuations, at your home or at McTear’s, five days a week. Get in touch today to discover the value of your artwork. Please call 0141 810 2880 or email auction@mctears.co.uk