"I’m interested only in expressing basic human emotions— tragedy, ecstasy, doom".
Mark Rothko’s masterpieces are not merely paintings—they are profound emotional experiences. His work has the power to move viewers to tears, drawing out raw, unspoken feelings through his signature fields of colour and depth. Ensure your Rothko is protected with specialist insurance, so its impact—and your discerning eye—never go unseen.
What does Mark Rothko Art Insurance Cover?
Mark Rothko remains one of the most influential figures in post-war American art, revered for his ability to distil complex emotional states into fields of colour and form. A pioneer of Colour Field painting and a central figure in Abstract Expressionism, Rothko moved beyond representation to create meditative spaces on canvas—works that resonate not through subject matter but through atmosphere, tone, and feeling. His iconic compositions are not merely viewed; they are experienced, often confronting the viewer with silence, depth, and emotional intensity.
No. 61 (Rust and Blue) (1953) is a quintessential example of Rothko's mature style. With broad, feathered rectangles of rust and blue floating atop a deep, earthy background, the work emanates a quiet gravity. The translucent layering of oil paint creates a glowing, almost breathing surface that draws the viewer inward. Housed in the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, it stands as a meditation on contrast—between warmth and coolness, materiality and transcendence.
Orange, Red, Yellow (1961) is among Rothko’s most vibrant and celebrated canvases. Composed of radiant horizontal bands, it captures the emotional spectrum of light—from the vitality of orange to the intensity of crimson. The work exudes a rare luminosity, almost incandescent in person, immersing the viewer in a bath of colour and emotion. Its record-breaking auction sale in 2012 affirmed its status not only as a cultural icon but also as a cornerstone of 20th-century art collecting.
Red on Maroon (1959), from a pivotal series originally created for the Four Seasons Restaurant in New York, marks Rothko’s turn toward a more sombre, contemplative palette. Here, a glowing crimson form emerges from a murky maroon field, creating a visual tension that is both elegant and foreboding. The painting reflects Rothko's deeper philosophical concerns—mortality, isolation, and the sublime—offering a hauntingly beautiful encounter with darkness and light.
Black on Maroon (1958) intensifies this introspective mood. Stark rectangular blocks of black loom against a maroon ground, evoking a sense of solemnity and ritual. Now housed in the Tate Modern, it is part of the renowned "Seagram Murals" series, where Rothko’s compositions border on the architectural, enveloping the viewer in a space of silence and existential weight.
Our bespoke insurance solutions ensure that your Mark Rothko works are preserved with the utmost care. From iconic museum pieces to privately held treasures, we offer discreet, comprehensive coverage tailored to protect both the artistic legacy and investment value of these emotionally charged masterpieces.
Who is Mark Rothko Art Insurance for?
All the important stuff as standard
Why choose us?
With more than 15 years of unparalleled expertise in the insurance industry, this is insurance the way it should be.
PROTECTION PLANS
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Our parent company Saxon Insurance Brokers can provide you with a tailored quote for collections over the value of £1,000,000.
What else we cover
We offer extensive coverage for items across different categories, all within a single policy.
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You might be wondering
What happens if I need to claim?
Our claims process is designed to be straightforward and stress-free. In the event of a claim, simply contact our dedicated team, and we’ll guide you through every step to ensure a smooth and efficient experience.How big does my collection have to be?
To qualify for coverage, your collection should include three or more items. Our policies are tailored for collectors, whether you’re just starting out or have an extensive collection.Can I insure different types of items under one policy?
Yes users can insure multiple items on one policy from different categories.Is there a discount if I reccommend friends or family?
Yes! As part of our Collection Club, we offer a refer-a-friend program and many other exclusive benefits. By recommending friends or family, you can enjoy added perks and discounts as a valued member.