The art world witnessed some remarkable sales in 2024, with several iconic paintings fetching record-breaking prices at auctions. Here are the top 5 paintings that captivated the market this year:
1. René Magritte’s “L’Empire des Lumières”
Price: $121.16 Million René Magritte’s “L’Empire des Lumières” became the most expensive Surrealist artwork ever sold at auction, achieving $121.16 million at Christie’s New York in November. This painting is one of the largest works in Magritte’s famed “Empire of Light” series, which juxtaposes day and night imagery. (Source: Artsy)
2. Ed Ruscha’s “Standard Station, Ten-Cent Western Being Torn in Half”
Price: $68.26 Million Ed Ruscha’s “Standard Station, Ten-Cent Western Being Torn in Half” fetched $68.26 million at Christie’s New York in November. This oil on canvas is a prime example of Ruscha’s exploration of American culture and commercialism. (Source: ArtNet)
3. Claude Monet’s “Nymphéas”
Price: $65.5 Million Claude Monet’s “Nymphéas” sold for $65.5 million at Sotheby’s New York in November. This oil on canvas is part of Monet’s famous water lilies series, showcasing his mastery of light and color. (Source: Wealth of Geeks)
4. Mark Rothko’s “Untitled (Yellow and Blue)”
Price: $32.47 Million Mark Rothko’s “Untitled (Yellow and Blue)” achieved $32.47 million at Sotheby’s Hong Kong in November. This oil on canvas is a stunning example of Rothko’s signature style, with its bold color fields and emotional depth. (Source: Artsy)
5. Alberto Giacometti’s “Femme qui marche (II)”
Price: $26.63 Million Alberto Giacometti’s “Femme qui marche (II)” sold for $26.63 million at Christie’s New York in November. This bronze sculpture with a dark brown patina is a testament to Giacometti’s exploration of the human form. (Source: ArtNet)
These sales not only highlight the enduring value of these masterpieces but also reflect the dynamic nature of the art market in 2024. Whether you’re an art collector or simply an admirer, these paintings represent some of the most significant achievements in the world of fine art.
