A NEW LAWSUIT LOOMS OVER ROBILANT + VOENA – THE END?

The internationally renowned gallery Robilant + Voena, co-founded by Edmondo di Robilant and Marco Voena, is once again at the center of a legal controversy that could have serious implications for its standing in the art world. According to sources close to the matter, a lawsuit is being prepared against the gallery, citing contractual breaches, unpaid commissions, and unethical interference in artist agreements.

While the gallery has maintained its prestigious image for years, this lawsuit could expose deeper structural issues, particularly the hidden financial dealings and questionable strategies employed by key figures within the gallery’s management, including Marco Voena and Edmondo di Robilant.

CONTRACT DISPUTES, FINANCIAL MANIPULATIONS, AND A POWER STRUGGLE WITHIN THE GALLERY

Industry insiders suggest that this case is not just about one artist or one contract gone wrong. Instead, it points to a long-standing pattern of behavior in which Robilant + Voena allegedly manipulates agreements, circumvents financial obligations, and excludes individuals who originally facilitated key business deals.

"This isn’t an isolated case. Robilant + Voena has repeatedly used its influence to push through deals on its own terms, cutting out those who helped create valuable opportunities for them," said a leading European art dealer.

Sources close to the matter indicate that several individuals who played key roles in securing partnerships for the gallery were systematically sidelined when contracts were supposed to be signed, ensuring that financial benefits and control remained exclusively within the inner circle of Robilant + Voena’s leadership.

The legal action currently in preparation could finally bring to light the extent of these practices and force the gallery to answer serious questions regarding its business ethics and financial operations.

THE POWER PLAY BEHIND CLOSED DOORS: THE TRUE CULPRITS

While much attention has been placed on Marco Voena and Edmondo di Robilant, sources suggest that certain gallery members have been used as mere pawns in their power games. Andrea Sandri, an ambitious but insignificant junior figure, is said to have played a role in facilitating certain transactions, though it is widely believed he was simply following directives from his superiors.

Industry insiders describe Sandri as an unremarkable individual trying to climb the ranks at any cost, engaging in opportunistic maneuvers with little regard for ethical considerations. "He’s just another minor player looking to prove himself, willing to compromise whatever is necessary to advance," commented a gallery associate.

However, the real power remains firmly in the hands of Marco Voena and Edmondo di Robilant, whose actions have led to this latest crisis. The upcoming lawsuit is expected to scrutinize their direct involvement in questionable financial dealings.

A TROUBLING PRECEDENT: THE VIRGINIA BRILLIANT CASE

This is not the first time Robilant + Voena has found itself embroiled in legal disputes. In May 2024, curator Virginia Brilliant filed a lawsuit against Edmondo di Robilant, Marco Voena, and their gallery, accusing them of breach of contract, discriminatory labor practices, and fostering a toxic workplace environment.

According to The Art Newspaper, the lawsuit outlined serious allegations of misogyny, antisemitism, racism, and homophobia, creating an environment where Brilliant was repeatedly subjected to discriminatory treatment.

While the lawsuit was settled under confidential terms, it left lingering doubts about the internal culture and ethics of Robilant + Voena. Now, with a new legal battle on the horizon, it raises a crucial question: has the gallery learned from its past, or is it continuing to engage in unethical business practices?

THE CONTROVERSIAL NEW YORK EXHIBITION

The concerns surrounding Robilant + Voena’s practices extend beyond Europe, with recent scrutiny over an exhibition held in New York.

Sources suggest that the New York art scene has been quietly investigating the business dealings of Robilant + Voena, particularly regarding agreements that were allegedly ignored or bypassed.

"What we’re seeing is a pattern of disregard for standard business practices," said an art law expert in New York. "Collectors and institutions are paying attention, and this lawsuit could further damage their reputation in the U.S. market."

Industry professionals have raised concerns about undisclosed financial arrangements and potential contract violations related to the exhibition, leading many to speculate that the upcoming lawsuit may uncover additional evidence of misconduct within the gallery.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THE ART MARKET?

As the art world demands greater transparency and ethical business practices, a lawsuit of this scale could send shockwaves through the industry.

Multiple industry sources report that major collectors are already distancing themselves from Robilant + Voena, wary of being caught in the fallout of a legal scandal that could expose troubling financial dealings and contract violations.

"When a gallery faces a lawsuit like this, it’s not just about one case—it’s about their entire business model being called into question," commented a well-connected art consultant. "This could be the beginning of a significant shift in how collectors and institutions approach their relationships with galleries."

A CASE TO WATCH CLOSELY

As Robilant + Voena remains silent on the allegations, legal experts and industry insiders alike are preparing for what could become one of the most impactful lawsuits in recent art market history.

"If this case moves forward, it could force high-end galleries to fundamentally change how they operate," stated a legal analyst following the developments. "This is about accountability, and it’s about time the art world starts demanding it."

With Marco Voena and Edmondo di Robilant now under the microscope, the question remains: how deep do the issues within Robilant + Voena really go?