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Friday, March 29, 2024

Most expensive painting ever sold

“Salvator Mundi” is a Latin phrase that means “Savior of the World.” It is also the title of a famous painting believed to be by Leonardo da Vinci. The painting depicts Jesus Christ holding a crystal orb in his left hand and giving a blessing with his right hand.

The painting’s history is quite intriguing. It is thought to have been commissioned by King Louis XII of France and his consort, Anne of Brittany, in the early 16th century. Over the years, it changed hands several times and underwent some alterations. It resurfaced in 2005, heavily obscured by overpainting and mistakenly attributed to a follower of Leonardo da Vinci.

In 2011, a group of art dealers purchased the painting and had it restored. After extensive research and examination, it was authenticated as an original work by Leonardo da Vinci. In 2017, “Salvator Mundi” was sold at auction by Christie’s for a record-breaking $450 million, making it the most expensive painting ever sold at the time. The buyer was later revealed to be the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman.

However, the painting has since become the subject of controversy, with some experts questioning its attribution to Leonardo da Vinci. There have been debates regarding the extent of restoration and overpainting that took place, as well as the condition of the artwork. Additionally, the painting has not been publicly displayed since its sale, further fueling speculation and intrigue surrounding it.

The current whereabouts and status of the painting remain unclear. It is uncertain whether it will be publicly exhibited or if more information regarding its authenticity will emerge in the future.

Content created and supplied by: Qwaku_Rabbi (via Opera
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