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The auction house has announced a historic event: photographs from Madonna’s 1992 book Sex will be offered at public auction for the first time. Christie’s confirms the milestone in celebration of its 30th anniversary, highlighting the re-release of Madonna and the acclaimed photographer Steven Meisel’s collaboration. The official statement describes the 1992 photo book as a work that crosses cultural borders and remains influential decades later.
As part of the project, Christie’s will present Madonna x Meisel Sex Photos, featuring more than 40 works in a single live sale in New York on October 6, 2023. The arrangement marks a rare opportunity to view and bid on a complete body of work as one curated piece.
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The pop icon celebrated the announcement by sharing small glimpses of the images on social media. Proceeds from the sale will benefit Raising Malawi, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children in Malawi through healthcare, education, and community programs. The charity’s mission underlines the cultural moment with a philanthropic purpose that resonates with fans and supporters alike.
Madonna has spoken about the enduring impact of Sex, noting how it challenged norms and sparked conversations about sexuality in the early 1990s. The project coincided with the release of her fifth studio album, Erotica, and quickly became a touchstone in popular culture as a catalyst for discussions about creative expression and personal autonomy. Media outlets have described the book as a career turning point that still influences art and fashion today.
When the anniversary celebrations began last autumn, Madonna shared on social media reflections about the book and its reception. She spoke of the boldness of the nude photography and the openness about sexual identity that the work embodied. The message emphasized that the book stood for more than provocative imagery; it represented a statement about freedom of expression and the power of self-ownership in creative work. The sentiment was echoed by fans and commentators who recognized Sex as a landmark project that helped redefine how sexuality is portrayed in mainstream media.
The following month, an exclusive limited reissue of eight hundred copies of the book was announced, accompanied by an exhibition planned in collaboration with a renowned fashion house. The show explores the intersection of fashion, art, and contemporary culture, drawing connections between archival imagery and present-day discourse on gender and representation. The event underscores the enduring relevance of Madonna and Meisel’s collaboration in today’s creative landscape. [citation]