Gagosian Gallery Takes Over Representation of Robert Rauschenberg Estate

Gagosian Gallery has secured representation of the Robert Rauschenberg estate, ending a 15-year relationship with Pace Gallery (formerly PaceWildenstein). The influential American artist, who died of heart failure in May 2008, gained prominence in the 1950s and remained significant until his death. Rauschenberg's market remains strong, with a Combine painting selling above estimate for over $10 million at a Christie's auction in March. Gagosian plans a Rauschenberg exhibition in New York for fall 2010. The gallery's international network includes three New York locations, one in Beverly Hills, and spaces in London, Rome, Athens, Hong Kong, and soon Paris. Rauschenberg is celebrated for his innovative 'Combines' from the 1950s, which merged painting and sculpture with unconventional materials like found objects and a stuffed goat. His artistic practice also encompassed photography, printmaking, papermaking, and performance. Gagosian already represents Jasper Johns, an artist frequently linked with Rauschenberg.