One of the defining masterpieces from Nara's celebrated knife-bearing series will soon come to the Sotheby’s Maison as a highlight of The Hong Kong Sales. Monumental and deeply resonant, ‘Present’ marks the beginning of one of Nara’s most enduring and recognizable protagonists. Among his 1990s pieces, this painting is one of just five examples of Nara rendering the entire form of his signature subject in his more mature style. Notably, ‘Present’ is also the only work from this series in which the child is running forward, as if ready to strike. ‘Present’ foreshadows Nara’s record-breaking ‘Knife Behind Back,’ which sold for $25 million in 2019. Swipe to see the moment this work made auction history at #SothebysHongKong. Nara’s masterpiece will headline The Modern & Contemporary Evening Auction, presented in partnership with celine, in September. Stay tuned as we announce more highlights and information bidding.