František Kupka at Sotheby’s: Espace non-descriptif Sells for €8.99 Million

Czech art has achieved another notable success on the international auction stage. František Kupka’s Espace non-descriptif, or Non-Descriptive Space, sold for €8.99 million including the buyer’s premium at Sotheby’s Paris on 23 October 2026. Dating from 1914–1922, the painting has brought renewed attention to one of the pioneers of abstract art.

The painting was offered in the Modernités sale, which brought together major works of modern art. According to Sotheby’s, the sale set a new auction record for Kupka in France and achieved the second-highest price ever paid for his work at auction. Czech media reported the result as equivalent to approximately CZK 217.5 million.

The pre-sale estimate was €6–8 million, excluding the buyer’s premium.

Espace non-descriptif: A New Way of Seeing

Measuring 112.5 × 114.7 centimetres, the oil on canvas dates from a period when Kupka was developing his distinctive approach to abstraction. Colour, rhythm and the relationships between forms took on a significance of their own. A painting no longer needed to depict a recognisable place or object to create a compelling visual experience.

Sotheby’s catalogue also traces the transformation of the composition itself. An early version is documented under the title Raisons graphiques. Kupka gradually reworked it, simplifying its elements and opening up a light-filled space at the centre of the canvas. The contrast between the coloured forms and the empty centre creates the sense of depth and movement that characterises the work.

Non-Descriptive Space also has an important Czech connection in its exhibition history. It was shown at Kupka’s retrospective at Prague’s Mánes gallery in 1946, followed by further exhibitions abroad. According to the catalogue’s provenance, Galerie Louis Carré in Paris acquired the painting directly from the artist in 1951.

Czech Art in the World of Sotheby’s

The Paris result highlights the international standing of Czech modern art and Kupka’s lasting place in the history of abstraction. Beyond the price, the painting’s appeal lies in its story: its evolving composition, documented provenance and journey through exhibitions and private collections.

For Czech Republic Sotheby’s International Realty, following these stories is a natural part of our interest in art, architecture and exceptional homes. Founded in 1976, the Sotheby’s International Realty brand draws on the heritage of Sotheby’s auction house. Both share an appreciation for the individuality and significance of objects and places whose value extends beyond their price.

Explore more stories from the auction world on our blog.

Sources: Sotheby’s auction catalogue, Sotheby’s results release, ČTK / Seznam Zprávy, Sotheby’s International Realty brand history. Photo: Sotheby’s.