Mall’s Balls creator Bert Flugelman’s kama sutra sculpture hits market

A rare nude sculpture by the famous artist has hit the market. And this eyeful is expected to fetch a big price fast. Warning: Explicit images

A rare and hidden sculpture by the Mall’s Balls artist Bert Flugelman will be auctioned in Adelaide this month.

The nude pottery work is one of the more risqué Flugelman pieces, and a sister piece to the famous tattooed lady at the Art Gallery Of South Australia.

The auction piece, which is also an education in Kama Sutra positions, was bought by collector Kym Bonython directly from the artist and hasn’t been seen in public for 30 years since if left display at Wollongong University.

Auctioneer Jim Elder of Elder Fine Art, said he was over the moon that it had come into his hands, especially at a time when the artistry of tattooed bodies had become “utterly chic”.

Flugelman moved to Adelaide in 1974, completing the Mall’s Balls in 1977 and becoming an influential teacher. The statue dates to before this period, and Flugelman died in 2013.

SCROLL DOWN TO SEE THE FULL (RATHER RUDE) STATUE

Jim Elder from Elder fine Art auctions with the artwork called Tattooed Lady. Picture: Michael Marschall

Jim Elder says he expects the rare collector’s item to find a buyer quickly. Picture: Michael Marschall

The painted terracotta artwork is described as; “Big, bold, and beautiful. She is fearless. She is fun. She is a work of art paying homage to carnal pleasures”.

The artwork could go for far more than the expected $50,000, if it attracts interest from institutions. As Flugelman specialised in small volume commissioned work, his pieces are rare but highly valued.

“She is a collector’s treasure,” Mr Elder said.

“She is so clever and humorous and, at the same time, culturally relevant, that she won’t be sticking around for long. I expect her to be snaffled up in a trice.”

The sculpture is included among offerings in the collection of important Australian and international artworks at the North Adelaide art gallery on the June 20.

The Tattooed Lady is adorned with images remiscient of the Kama Sutra. Picture: Michael Marschall