Leonardo Da Vinci, Salvator Mundi, c. 1500
Auction house Christies unveiled this past week its previously top secret and “most thrilling acquisition to date”: Salvator Mundi (“Savior of the World”), a formerly lost masterwork by Leonardo da Vinci that is believed to be the artist’s last painting. Made around 1500 and presumed lost until discovered early this century. Believed to be the last Leonardo in private hands, it is estimated to sell for $100 million. The oil painting, which is 25 7/8 inches by 18 inches.
The painting originally hung in the collection of King Charles I and depicts a beatific Jesus Christ, clad in lapis lazuli robes and holding a glass orb, one hand extended skyward; it bears a certain compositional likeness to the Mona Lisa, and was painted around the same time. Of 15 Da Vinci paintings presently known to exist, Salvator Mundi is the only one in private hands.
Click HERE to jump to the news article about the Christies Auction.