Step into the thrilling world of art auctions as we unravel the captivating story behind the record-breaking sale of Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi. In a jaw-dropping auction held at Christie’s, New York, in 2017, the painting fetched an astonishing $450.3 million, establishing itself as the most expensive artwork ever sold. The spotlight of this historic event was on the unexpected bidder, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman (MBS), who secured the winning bid with a staggering $30 million jump.
Auction Drama Unveiled: The auction room buzzed with anticipation as the bidding war for Salvator Mundi unfolded. Starting at a seemingly modest $100 million, the bidding escalated rapidly, surpassing the previous record set by Picasso’s Women of Algiers. The competition intensified, involving three anonymous bidders represented by proxies, setting the stage for a historic showdown.
Royal Rivalry: Among the bidders, Prince Bader of Saudi Arabia emerged as a force to be reckoned with, engaging in a fierce battle with another anonymous bidder, reportedly representing the ruler of the United Arab Emirates, Mohammed Bin Zayed. The rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the UAE became palpable, each side vying for supremacy and refusing to concede to the other, with both assuming they were outbidding the Qatari ruling family.
Unprecedented Bidding: The climax of the auction arrived when Prince Bader, determined and financially robust, shocked the room with a monumental $30 million jump, bringing the bid to an unprecedented $400 million. Observers and industry insiders alike were astounded by the audacity and intensity of the bidding, with one remarking on the collective gasp that echoed through the room.
Contractual Complications: The final price of $450 million, inclusive of buyer’s fees, caught even the mighty Saudi Crown Prince off guard. In a surprising twist, MBS had to request to settle the astronomical amount in six monthly payments, highlighting the unforeseen financial magnitude of the purchase.
Who is Prince Bader of Saudi Arabia?
HH Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Farhan Al Saud, the first Minister of Culture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, emerged as the bidder behind the historic purchase. A prominent figure in cultural development, Prince Bader’s involvement in the acquisition of Salvator Mundi brought him into the global spotlight, showcasing his commitment to advancing arts and culture in Saudi Arabia.
As Salvator Mundi commands a value of $450 million, securing its place as the world’s most expensive painting, the saga of its auction remains a testament to the intersection of art, wealth, and international intrigue. The unprecedented bids, royal rivalries, and contractual intricacies surrounding this masterpiece continue to fascinate art enthusiasts worldwide, shaping the narrative of one of the most extraordinary art transactions in history.
