What's happened
A previously unknown painting depicting the crucifixion of Jesus has been found in a Parisian townhouse. Authenticity was confirmed through scientific analysis, revealing it to be a rare work possibly by Rubens, with unique features like blood and water from Christ's side. It sold for €2.7 million.
What's behind the headline?
The discovery of this painting highlights the ongoing potential for major art finds in private collections. The scientific authentication process, including pigment analysis, underscores the importance of technological advances in art attribution. Rubens' rare depiction of Christ's death, with blood and water, makes this work particularly significant. Its provenance, linking it to Bouguereau, adds a layer of historical intrigue. The sale price of €2.7 million reflects its perceived rarity and importance, likely driven by the art world's fascination with Rubens' oeuvre. This find may prompt further research into overlooked works from the period, and it underscores the value of scientific methods in verifying art authenticity, which could lead to more discoveries and increased market value for similar works.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that the painting was authenticated by the Rubenianum in Antwerp after scientific analysis, confirming its rarity and provenance. The Times of Israel emphasizes the painting's rarity and its connection to Rubens' unique depiction of Christ, noting its previous ownership by William Bouguereau. The NY Post highlights the painting's recent uncovering and its record sale price of $2.7 million, emphasizing its significance as a rare Rubens work. AP News provides a comprehensive overview, noting the painting's discovery, scientific validation, and historical background, including its initial undervaluation and subsequent recognition as a major art piece.
How we got here
The painting was part of a French collection and was initially thought to be from a Rubens workshop, valued at around €10,000. Experts suspected it was a rare depiction by Rubens, especially because of its portrayal of blood and water from Christ's side, which Rubens painted only once. Scientific analysis confirmed its authenticity, revealing typical pigments used by Rubens. It belonged to 19th-century French painter William Bouguereau before passing through family hands.
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