World's most expensive painting: Price, owner, and current location
What is known about the most expensive painting in the world (photo: Getty Images)
The most expensive paintings in the world are works of art by Pablo Picasso, Amedeo Modigliani, Edvard Munch, Andy Warhol, and, of course, Leonardo da Vinci. But which painting was sold for a record $450 million in 2018?
The most expensive painting in the world is Salvator Mundi, created by Leonardo da Vinci. It was sold at auction in 2018 for a record-breaking $450 million.
The painting's current location remains unknown. Reports indicate that Saudi Arabian Prince Badr bin Abdullah purchased it on behalf of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
It is speculated that the painting may be displayed on the prince’s yacht or is being prepared for exhibition in a museum.
The history of Salvator Mundi is shrouded in mystery. It is believed that da Vinci created the painting for the French royal court, but its trail was lost over time.
Leonardo painted Salvator Mundi between 1506 and 1513. The first written mention of the painting appears in a 17th-century archive — an inventory of the collection of King Charles I of England, Scotland, and Ireland.
A century later, the painting was acquired by the illegitimate son of the Duke of Buckingham. Its trail then disappears until 1900.
It was rediscovered in the United Kingdom in the 20th century. However, after numerous restorations and questions about its authenticity, its value was doubted.
The painting remains a symbol of prestige among collectors and continues to attract global attention. Its high price and the mystery of its current location only enhance its aura of intrigue.
The history of Salvator Mundi is remarkable not only for its price but also for the events surrounding it. Initially owned by the kings of France and England, its trail was lost by the mid-18th century.
In 2005, the work was found at an auction in the United States, where it was purchased for $10,000. After the final restoration and confirmation of da Vinci’s authorship, its value soared to hundreds of millions of dollars.
Information also suggests that the painting is currently in customs storage in Geneva, and the Saudi crown prince plans to build a museum for it in Riyadh.
Sources: Wikipedia, Art World, and Arskerylos.
