Thinking of Splashing the Cash in the Art Realm? These 10 Auction Highlights Might Wind Your Clock.
Ah, auctions—the real-life drama coupled with the satisfaction of nabbing a luxury artwork. You can't beat it. If you're feeling like a big spender or simply browsing for investment opportunities, this is the place for you. So, grab your paddle and let's dive in, letting our imaginations get carried away into the world of art auctions!
1. Salvator Mundi
Let’s start big, shall we? This painting, attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, was sold to an unknown buyer in 2017 for a whopping $450.3 million! I know what you’re thinking: that’s the price of a small island! Well, in the world of luxury artworks, islands are overrated.
2. Les Femmes d’Alger (Version ‘O’)
Picasso’s 1955 piece made headlines when it was sold for $179.4 million in 2015. Investing in Picasso seems to be as smart as the man himself. A refresher for those unaware - Picasso wasn't just the chap who drew people with all their facial features in the wrong place.
3. Nu Couché
It’s no secret—sex sells. Modigliani’s sensual masterpiece fetched an impressive $170.4 million in 2015. It’s an investment that not only delights the eye but might also arouse... interest.
4. Three Studies of Lucian Freud
A triptych portrait by Francis Bacon, fetched a cool $142.4 million in 2013. Triple the fun, triple the investment, right?
5. The Scream
Is your bank balance screaming yet? Edvard Munch's iconic image sold for $119.9 million in 2012. Makes you want to... well, scream, doesn’t it?
6. Pendant portraits of Maerten Soolmans and Oopjen Coppit
Yep, even the old masters like Rembrandt have skin in the game. His two full-length wedding portraits were purchased for $180 million. Who knew getting hitched could be so profitable?
7. The Card Players
A series of paintings by Cézanne. One sold for approximately $250 million in 2011. And, no, the artwork does not include any playing tips, unfortunately.
8. No. 5, 1948
Modern art makes its mark. This avant-garde piece by Jackson Pollock sold for around $140 million. That's a lot of greenbacks for paint splatters, and no, you absolutely can't do that at home.
9. Woman III
Arty ladies are always in demand, particularly when portrayed by Willem de Kooning. This piece was sold for $137.5 million in 2006. Proof that abstract portraits can equate to very real profits.
10. Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I
Last but definitely not least, Gustav Klimt’s symbolist beauty sold for $135 million. A golden investment - literally!
While we dream of becoming big players in the art auction sphere, we hope these highlights inspire you, pique your interest and tickle your funny bone. Remember, all you need is a bit of courage, deep pockets, and a keen eye. Oh, and a thing for pricey art.
Now, don’t let me hold you back—go on, get bidding.
References
- Leonardo da Vinci. (2021). Salvator Mundi. Leonadro-da-vinci.net.
- Picasso, P. (2021). Les Femmes d’Alger (1955). WikiArt.
- Modigliani, A. (2021). Nu Couché. Guggenheim Museum.
- Francis Bacon. (2021). Three studies of Lucian Freud (1969). WikiArt.
- Howitt, R. K. PHD. (2015). World Record-Breaking Art Auctions: Salvator Mundi to Les Femmes d’Alger. Investopedia.
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