On Tuesday, Christie’s Old Masters Evening Sale in London garnered £38.9 million ($51.4 million), surpassing its pre-sale estimate of £25 million to £37.5 million. The auction highlighted the ongoing demand for exceptional artworks, with notable pieces by Sir Thomas Lawrence and Jan van Huysum driving competition among collectors.
Record Sales and Notable Artists
The auction sold 96 percent by value and 90 percent by lot, underscoring strong interest in high-quality Old Master paintings. Jan van Huysum emerged as the night’s biggest winner, with his still life of peaches and grapes selling for £6.52 million ($8.65 million), far exceeding its £3 million to £4 million estimate. Its companion piece, an elaborate bouquet, fetched £5.54 million ($7.35 million), setting new records for the artist.
Christie’s catalog emphasized the distinguished provenance of these works, tracing their history through notable 18th- and 19th-century collections. The floral still life was particularly sought after, with Caroline Louise, Margravine of Baden, reportedly trying for three years to acquire it.
Surprising Performances and Selective Bidding
A standout of the evening was an anonymous 17th-century Dutch vanitas still life, which depicted two skulls alongside a quill and paper. Estimated at just £80,000 to £120,000, it sold for £431,800 (over $572,500), highlighting the collectors' willingness to invest in compelling imagery, regardless of the artist's fame.
