Next week, New York City is set to host an auction featuring a rare collection of drawings and paintings by American boxer Muhammad Ali, who enjoyed painting between his matches. The collection includes 24 pieces, many in a cartoon style and some bearing his signature, reflecting Ali's interest in religion and social justice. There are also several artworks depicting him in the ring.
Among the highlights is a painting titled "Sting Like a Bee," created by Muhammad Ali in 1978 during the filming of the historical series "Freedom Road," in which he starred. According to Bonhams Auctions, it is expected to fetch between $40,000 and $60,000 when it goes on sale on October 5th. Other notable works include "America: The Big Prison" from 1967 and "The War in America," valued between $25,000 and $35,000.
Bonhams noted that Ali's passion for painting was not widely known, but he loved it as a means of relaxation after matches or training. Helen Hall, Director of Popular Culture at Bonhams, stated, "Many people are excited as no one knew that Muhammad Ali was an artist, and no one knew anything about this treasure of artworks, so we are witnessing a lot of interest and enthusiasm," as reported by Reuters.
The former heavyweight champion, who declared his conversion to Islam in 1964 at the peak of his career, passed away in 2016 at the age of 74 after a long battle with Parkinson's disease.
