Salvator Mundi By Leonardo Da Vinci

“Salvator Mundi,” attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, is a painting that depicts Jesus Christ as the savior of the world, dressed in Renaissance attire, blessing with his right hand while holding a crystal orb in his left. Created around 1500, the painting’s history includes periods of obscurity, significant restoration, and intense debate over its authenticity. It gained worldwide attention when it sold for a record $450.3 million at Christie’s auction in 2017. The painting’s journey from a modestly valued piece to the world’s most expensive artwork highlights the intricate dynamics of art history, restoration, and market value. Its current whereabouts remain uncertain, believed to be in the possession of Saudi Arabian crown prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Interchange By Willem De Kooning

“Interchange,” painted by Willem de Kooning in 1955, is a celebrated example of Abstract Expressionism. Known for its dynamic composition and vibrant use of color, the piece captures the spontaneous and energetic brushstrokes characteristic of de Kooning’s style. “Interchange” reflects the artist’s interest in the human figure and urban landscapes, blending abstract forms with hints of recognizable shapes. In 2015, it set a record for the highest price ever paid for a painting at that time, underscoring its significance in the art world. The painting is notable not only for its artistic innovation but also for its impact on the market and continued influence on contemporary art.

The Card Players By Paul Cezanne

“The Card Players” is a series of oil paintings by French Post-Impressionist artist Paul Cézanne, created in the early 1890s. This series, notable for its depiction of Provençal peasants engaged in the quiet, concentrated activity of playing cards, is celebrated for its intense focus and subdued, earthy color palette. Cézanne’s meticulous attention to form and composition in these works showcases his innovative approach to perspective and spatial relationships. Each version of “The Card Players” varies slightly in the number of figures and their arrangements, reflecting Cézanne’s exploration of the subject over time. One of the paintings from this series was sold in 2011 for an estimated $250 million to the Royal Family of Qatar, making it one of the most expensive artworks ever sold. The series remains a profound testament to Cézanne’s influence on modern art, bridging the gap between 19th-century Impressionism and 20th-century Cubism.

Nafea Faa Ipoipo By Paul Gaugain

“Nafea Faa Ipoipo” (When Will You Marry?) is a significant painting by French Post-Impressionist artist Paul Gauguin, created in 1892 during his first visit to Tahiti. The artwork features two Tahitian women set against a lush, tropical background, embodying Gauguin’s fascination with the exotic and his quest to capture the unspoiled beauty of the South Pacific. The vibrant colors and simplified forms reflect Gauguin’s departure from traditional European artistic conventions, showcasing his innovative use of symbolism and bold palettes. In 2015, “Nafea Faa Ipoipo” was reportedly sold for approximately $300 million, making it one of the most expensive paintings ever sold. This masterpiece highlights Gauguin’s profound impact on modern art and his influential role in the development of Primitivism.

Number 17A By Jackson Pollock

“Number 17A,” created by Jackson Pollock in 1948, is a quintessential example of his revolutionary drip painting technique, which became a hallmark of Abstract Expressionism. The painting is a chaotic yet harmonious composition of swirling lines, splatters, and drips of paint, reflecting Pollock’s innovative approach to art, where he famously placed the canvas on the floor and used his entire body to create the artwork. The lack of a central focal point and the intricate layering of colors convey a sense of dynamic movement and raw energy. In 2016, “Number 17A” reportedly sold for around $200 million in a private sale, underscoring Pollock’s enduring influence on the art world and the value placed on his groundbreaking contributions to modern art.

The Standard Bearer By Rembrandt

“The Standard Bearer,” painted by Rembrandt in 1636, is a striking depiction of a military figure holding a flag, showcasing the artist’s exceptional talent for rendering character and emotion. The painting is notable for its meticulous attention to detail, particularly in the elaborate costume and the dramatic interplay of light and shadow, hallmarks of Rembrandt’s style. Created during the Dutch Golden Age, the work embodies the era’s patriotic spirit.

In 2022, “The Standard Bearer” was purchased by the Dutch government for $198 million, making it one of the most expensive paintings ever sold. This acquisition was celebrated as a significant cultural achievement, ensuring that the painting remains in the Netherlands and is displayed in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, where it can continue to be appreciated as a key piece of the nation’s artistic heritage.