Munch's Pastel 'The Scream' Fetches $120 Million
May 2nd, 2012
May 2nd, 2012
How Long Ago?
12 years, 10 months, 12 days ago
Location
New York City, USA
Category
Arts & Culture
People
- Edvard Munch
- Sotheby's Auction House
Links & References
Tags
Munch's Pastel 'The Scream' Fetches $120 Million
A pastel version of Edvard Munch's iconic painting 'The Scream' was sold for a staggering $120 million at a New York City auction. This monumental sale marked a historic moment in the art world, as it set a new record for a single artwork sold at auction. The auction, conducted by Sotheby's, attracted significant attention from collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide, eager to witness the transaction of one of the most recognized pieces in art history.
Sold for $120 million at Sotheby's auction
Set a record for art sold at auction
Created by Edvard Munch in 1895
One of only four versions of 'The Scream'
What Happened?
The auction of Edvard Munch's pastel version of 'The Scream' took place at Sotheby's in New York City, drawing intense global interest from collectors and art lovers. The artwork, created in 1895, is one of four versions of 'The Scream' Munch produced, making it an iconic representation of modern art. Bidding was fierce, reflecting the painting's renowned status, and ultimately culminated in a record-breaking sale price of $120 million. This purchase highlighted the growing trend of skyrocketing art prices, while also emphasizing the significant cultural value attributed to iconic pieces from the past.
'The Scream' embodies themes of existential angst and deep emotion, resonating with viewers as it captures a universal experience of anxiety and despair. The pastel work possesses a unique blend of vibrant colors, which adds to its dynamic presence compared to the more frequently seen painted versions. Munch's innovative use of color and form established him as a pioneering figure in the expressionist movement.
This sale not only set a new benchmark for the art market but also sparked discussions around the valuation of artworks and the implications of private versus public ownership of such cultural treasures. The record-breaking price underscored the intersection of wealth and art, prompting debates among critics and historians about the commodification of art and its implications for both artists and collectors.
Why Does it Matter?
The sale of the pastel version of 'The Scream' is notable as it redefined the art market and its relationship to financial investment. The astronomical price illustrates the merging of art and economics, inspiring new collectors while also challenging traditional perceptions of art's intrinsic value. This unprecedented auction catalyzed discussions about the role of art in society and the evolving dynamics of ownership of culturally significant pieces.
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