A painting by Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens sold for 2.3 million euros ($2.7 million) at an auction Sunday in Versailles, France. The artwork, depicting the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, was recently discovered in a private townhouse in Paris after being concealed for more than four centuries.
The painting had been part of a French collection and was initially thought to be from one of the many Rubens workshops that existed during the artist’s time, rarely valued at more than 10,000 euros ($11,500).
Why It Matters
The discovery represents a major find in the art world, as authentic Rubens paintings are extremely rare and valuable. This particular work is notable because it shows the crucified Christ as a dead body on the cross with blood and water flowing from his side wound—a subject the artist painted only once, according to Rubens expert Nils Büttner.
What To Know
The painting’s authenticity was confirmed through extensive scientific analysis and examination by art experts. Microscopic examination of the paint layers revealed white, black, and red pigments in areas representing flesh, along with blue and green pigments whose use is characteristic of Rubens’ technique for depicting human skin.
The artwork is known to have belonged to 19th-century French classic painter William Bouguereau before being passed down through his family. According to the Osenat auction house, the painting had virtually disappeared in the early 1600s, making its recent discovery particularly remarkable.
Rubens, one of the most prominent artists of the Baroque period, often painted crucifixion scenes, but this particular depiction stands apart from his other works. The painting’s unique portrayal of Christ’s death, combined with its documented provenance and scientific verification, establishes its significance in Rubens’ body of work.
What People Are Saying
Auctioneer Jean-Pierre Osenat told the Associated Press: “I immediately had a hunch about this painting, and I did everything I could to try to have it authenticated. And finally, we managed to have it authenticated by the Rubenianum, which is the Rubens committee in Antwerp.”
Rubens expert Nils Büttner told the AP: “This is the one and only painting showing blood and water coming out of the side wound of Christ, and this is something that Rubens only painted once.”
What Happens Next?
The painting’s new owner has not been publicly identified.
Reporting from the Associated Press contributed to this article.
