Historical Events tagged with "auction"
Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.
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.
Continue ReadingRubens' 'Massacre of the Innocents' Auctioned
Peter Paul Rubens' powerful painting, 'The Massacre of the Innocents,' was sold at a Sotheby's auction for an astounding £49.5 million (US$76.2 million) to Lord Thomson. This remarkable sale highlighted the ongoing interest in masterworks by the old masters and reflected the growing market for high-value art pieces. The painting depicts a tragic biblical scene and has long been celebrated for its dramatic expression and intricate detail. The auction attracted considerable attention from collectors and art enthusiasts alike, showcasing the continuing value of Renaissance artworks in the modern era.
Continue ReadingChain Island Listed for Sale by California
The California State Lands Commission announced the sale of Chain Island, a 41-acre (17 ha) parcel of land with a minimum bid of $5,226. This mark offers buyers a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of California's coastal real estate. The island is located off the coast of California and has potential as a private retreat or commercial development site.
Continue ReadingLargest Slave Auction in U.S. History Ends
The Great Slave Auction saw over 1,000 enslaved individuals sold in a two-day event in Savannah, Georgia. Organized by a consortium of traders, the auction aimed to capitalize on the booming demand for labor in the southern plantations. Buyers from various states gathered, driven by the economic advantages of slave labor. The event not only showcased the brutal realities of the slave trade but also fueled further debates on abolitionism and human rights in the lead-up to the Civil War.
Continue ReadingThe Largest Slave Auction in U.S. History
The Great Slave Auction took place in March 1859, featuring over 400 enslaved individuals sold to the highest bidders. Held in Savannah, Georgia, the auction drew attention from across the South, revealing stark realities of the antebellum economy. It was organized by the notorious slave trader, John McDonough, who sought to capitalize on a growing demand for labor. The auction showcased the brutality of the slave system, with families often torn apart as individuals were sold to different owners, highlighting the inhumane practices of the time.
Continue ReadingJames Christie Begins Auction House Legacy
In London, auctioneer James Christie held his first sale, marking the inception of Christie’s auction house. This event showcased a range of valuable merchandise, drawing attention from collectors and the affluent. The successful sale was pivotal for Art and antiques marketing, paving the way for future auctions and establishing London as a key hub for art sales. The auction featured an eclectic mix of items, promoting a culture of fine art acquisition that would significantly flourish in the years to come.
Continue ReadingPraetorian Guards Sell Throne to Didius Julianus
The Praetorian Guards auctioned the Roman throne after killing Emperor Pertinax, leading to a bidding war. Didius Julianus won the bid, offering the highest amount to the guards, effectively purchasing the imperial title amid chaos and power struggles within Rome.
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