We’ve spent loads of time writing about the auction world this year—including a number of intriguing auctions from Sotheby’s. There were priceless paintings, diamonds, and pretty much everything else you could imagine being stockpiled in the basement of a serious collector (or a Bond villain).
Nearing the end of the year, Sotheby’s raked in many millions at the auction block—and RealClearLife has the 10 items that brought in the highest hammer prices. Sorry, automobiles, books, and guitars—this is an art and gemstone–only list.
1. Pablo Picasso, ‘Femme Assise,’ 1909 – Sold for $63,631,391
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
2. Amedeo Modigliani, ‘Jeanne Hébuterne (Au Foulard),’ 1919 – Sold $56,631,335
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
3. Edvard Munch, ‘Pikene på broen (Girls on the Bridge),’ 1902 – Sold for $54,487,500
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
4. Cy Twombly, ‘Untitled (New York City),’ 1968 – Sold for $36,650,000
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
5. Francis Bacon, ‘Two Studies For A Self-Portrait,’ 1970 – Sold for $34,970,000
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
6. Zhang Daqian, ‘Peach Blossom Spring,’ 1982 – Sold for $34,702,564
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
7. Gerhard Richter, ‘A.B., Still,’ 1986 – Sold for $33,987,500
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
8. De Beers Millennium Jewel 4 – Sold for $32,013,223
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
9. ‘The Unique Pink’ Superb Fancy Vivid Pink Diamond Ring – Sold for $31,561,200
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
10. Orazio Gentileschi, ‘Danaë,’ 1621 – Sold for $30,490,000
(Courtesy of Sotheby’s)
For more on Sotheby’s list, click here.
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