The world of auctions is a fascinating one, where some of the rarest and most sought-after items are sold to the highest bidder. Over the years, some of the most expensive items have sold for millions of dollars, including works of art, jewelry, and even automobiles. Here, we’ll take a look at some of the most expensive items ever sold at auction.
1. Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi – $450.3 million
In November 2017, the Salvator Mundi, a painting by Leonardo da Vinci, became the most expensive painting ever sold at auction. The painting, which depicts Jesus Christ, was discovered in 2005 and underwent extensive restoration before being sold at Christie’s in New York.
2. Pablo Picasso’s Les Femmes d’Alger – $179.4 million
In May 2015, Pablo Picasso’s Les Femmes d’Alger (Version “O”) became the most expensive painting ever sold at auction, until it was surpassed by the Salvator Mundi. The painting is part of a series that Picasso created in honor of his friend and rival, Henri Matisse.
3. Amedeo Modigliani’s Reclining Nude – $170.4 million
In November 2015, Amedeo Modigliani’s Reclining Nude became the second most expensive painting ever sold at auction. The painting is part of a series of nude works that Modigliani created in the early 20th century.
4. Paul Cézanne’s The Card Players – $250 million
In April 2011, Paul Cézanne’s The Card Players became the most expensive painting ever sold at auction. The painting is part of a series of five works that Cézanne created in the early 1890s.
5. Three Studies of Lucian Freud – $142.4 million
In November 2013, Three Studies of Lucian Freud by Francis Bacon became the most expensive work of art ever sold at auction, until it was surpassed by the Salvator Mundi and Les Femmes d’Alger. The painting is a triptych that shows Freud seated in a chair.
6. Pink Star Diamond – $71.2 million
In April 2017, the Pink Star Diamond became the most expensive gemstone ever sold at auction. The 59.6-carat diamond was sold at a Sotheby’s auction in Hong Kong to a jewelry retailer in Chow Tai Fook.
7. Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti – $35.7 million
In February 2016, a 1957 Ferrari 335 Sport Scaglietti became the most expensive automobile ever sold at auction. The car, which was once driven by Sir Stirling Moss, was sold at Artcurial’s Retromobile auction in Paris.
8. Francis Bacon’s Triptych – $142.4 million
In November 2013, Three Studies of Lucian Freud by Francis Bacon became the most expensive work of art ever sold at auction, until it was surpassed by the Salvator Mundi and Les Femmes d’Alger. The painting is a triptych that shows Freud seated in a chair.
9. Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog (Orange) – $58.4 million
In November 2013, Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog (Orange) became the most expensive work by a living artist ever sold at auction. The sculpture is one of a series of balloon animal sculptures that Koons created in the 1990s.
10. Van Gogh’s Portrait of Dr. Gachet – $82.5 million
In May 1990, Vincent van Gogh’s Portrait of Dr. Gachet became the most expensive painting ever sold at the time. The painting depicts van Gogh’s personal physician and is one of the most famous paintings in the history of art.
In conclusion, these are some of the most expensive items ever sold at auction. These items represent some of the most valuable and rare pieces in the world of art and collectibles. While the prices may seem exorbitant to many, they are a testament to the enduring value and beauty of these works.
