Tom of Finland's Sexy, Rare 'Motorcycle Series' Is Now Up For Auction

A rare, complete set of signed drawings by famed illustrator Tom of Finland will be offered at auction later this month by Phillips Auctioneers in New York City. Entitled The Motorcycle Series, the 11 commissioned drawings represent an early period in the iconic artist's development and will be sold as a set. Phillips estimates the sale to be worth anywhere between $180,000 to $250,000.

"We are so honored to present The Motorcycle Series as a highlight of the fall season at Phillips. These eleven superb works are some of the best examples of Tom of Finland's iconic imagery, which has influenced generations of queer artists and made the world a slightly freer, safer place for us all." Brittany Jones, a researcher and specialist in 20th century & contemporary Art at Phillips, tells Out.

The Motorcycle Series was commissioned from 1959 to 1960 by Tony Hepworth of Yorkshire. Both a fan of Tom of Finland and an avid motorcyclist, Hepworth sent PS25 each month for Tom to create a homoerotic motorcycle-themed series of drawings.

"I hope that this grouping, which is one of the artist's greatest series, will help solidify Tom of Finland's reputation as one of the most revolutionary -- and bravest -- voices of the 20th century," Jones tells Out.

The Motorcycle Series will be on view in New York from November 8 to 17 at 432 Park Avenue, the company's new headquarters. The auction on November 18 will welcome in-person bidding. You can learn more about the auction at www.phillips.com.

Scroll through to view select drawings from Tom of Finland's Motorcycle Series!

All photos courtesy of Phillips Auctioneers (c) 1984-2021 Tom of Finland Foundation

Learn more about the auction of Tom of Finland's Motorcycle Series at Phillips's official website, www.phillips.com.

All photos courtesy of Phillips Auctioneers (c) 1984-2021 Tom of Finland Foundation

Learn more about the auction of Tom of Finland's Motorcycle Series at Phillips's official website, www.phillips.com.

All photos courtesy of Phillips Auctioneers (c) 1984-2021 Tom of Finland Foundation

Learn more about the auction of Tom of Finland's Motorcycle Series at Phillips's official website, www.phillips.com.

All photos courtesy of Phillips Auctioneers (c) 1984-2021 Tom of Finland Foundation