Art has always been a reflection of society, and for many, it is a symbol of wealth and status. Throughout history, some paintings have become famous not only for their artistic value but also for their astronomical price tags. Here are the top 10 most expensive paintings ever sold:
Salvator Mundi by Leonardo da Vinci – $450.3 million
This painting, which depicts Jesus Christ, is the most expensive painting ever sold. It was auctioned in 2017, and its buyer remains anonymous.
Interchange by Willem de Kooning – $300 million
This abstract painting by the Dutch-American artist Willem de Kooning was sold in a private sale in 2015.
The Card Players by Paul Cézanne – $250 million
This series of five paintings by French artist Paul Cézanne is considered his greatest achievement. One of the paintings was sold in a private sale in 2011.
Nafea Faa Ipoipo (When Will You Marry?) by Paul Gauguin – $210 million This painting by French artist Paul Gauguin was sold in a private sale in 2015.
Number 17A by Jackson Pollock – $200 million
This abstract painting by American artist Jackson Pollock was sold in a private sale in 2016.
No. 6 (Violet, Green, and Red) by Mark Rothko – $186 million
This abstract painting by American artist Mark Rothko was sold in a private sale in 2014.
Les Femmes d’Alger (Version ‘O’) by Pablo Picasso – $179.4 million
This painting by Spanish artist Pablo Picasso was sold at auction in 2015.
Nu Couché by Amedeo Modigliani – $170.4 million
This painting by Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani was sold at auction in 2015.
Pendant portraits of Maerten Soolmans and Oopjen Coppit by Rembrandt – $170 million These portraits by Dutch artist Rembrandt were sold in a private sale in 2015.
The Scream by Edvard Munch – $119.9 million
This painting by Norwegian artist Edvard Munch is famous for its haunting image of a figure screaming. It was sold at auction in 2012.
These paintings are not just symbols of wealth but also works of art that have captivated the world for generations. While the astronomical price tags may seem unbelievable, they are a testament to the enduring value of art and its ability to inspire and move people.