Most Expensive Artwork in History

Most Expensive Painting

• Salvator Mundi holds the record for the most expensive painting ever sold, fetching $450 million at auction in 2017.

Royal Purchase

• The Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman financed the acquisition of Salvator Mundi, which is attributed to Leonardo da Vinci.

Rediscovery Timeline

• Salvator Mundi was rediscovered in 2005, sparking a renewed interest in the artwork.

Ongoing Discussions in Art World

• The authenticity and restoration of Salvator Mundi remain contentious topics, with debates on whether it is a true da Vinci masterpiece.

Contemporaneous Artwork

• The painting Madonna of the Yarnwinder was created around the same time as Salvator Mundi, reflecting the same era of art.

Record Sale of 'The Card Players'

• Paul Cézanne's painting 'The Card Players' was sold to the Royal Family of Qatar for a staggering $250 million in 2011.

'Interchange' Auction Sale

• The abstract painting 'Interchange' by Willem de Kooning was sold at auction for $300 million in 2015, marking one of the highest sales for a modern artwork.

Da Vinci's Artistic Output

• Leonardo da Vinci is known to have created around 15 authenticated pieces during his lifetime, highlighting his limited but impactful oeuvre.

Initial Sale of 'Interchange'

• Willem de Kooning's painting 'Interchange' was initially sold to an architect for $4 million in 1955, showcasing its significant appreciation in value.

Year of Acquisition for 'The Card Players'

• The Royal Family of Qatar acquired Cézanne's 'The Card Players' in 2011, emphasizing their commitment to building a distinguished art collection.