Classical paintings are some of the most valuable and sought-after works of art in the world. From the Renaissance to the Baroque period, artists created masterpieces that continue to capture the imaginations of art lovers and collectors. In this Shopify blog post, we'll explore the top classical paintings in terms of their price at auction and what makes them so valuable.
Salvator Mundi by Leonardo da Vinci - $450.3 million
Salvator Mundi, which translates to "Savior of the World," is a painting of Jesus Christ that was attributed to Leonardo da Vinci. It was painted in the early 1500s and was lost for several centuries before being rediscovered in 2005. The painting sold at auction in 2017 for a record-breaking $450.3 million, making it the most expensive painting ever sold.
Interchange by Willem de Kooning - $300 million
Interchange is an abstract painting by Willem de Kooning that was created in 1955. It is one of the most important works of Abstract Expressionism and was sold for $300 million in 2015.
The Card Players by Paul Cézanne - $259 million
The Card Players is a series of paintings by Paul Cézanne that depicts peasants playing cards. One of the paintings sold for $259 million in 2011, making it the most expensive painting sold at the time.
These paintings are all incredibly valuable, but what makes them so special? Each painting has a unique history, whether it's a lost masterpiece like Salvator Mundi or a groundbreaking work of abstract expressionism like Interchange. They have also been created by some of the most celebrated artists in history, whose influence can still be seen in the art world today. By exploring the stories behind these paintings, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the power and value of classical art.