In the realm of art and auctions, a remarkable event recently took place at the Christie’s auction house in New York. An unassuming square sketch on a yellowed piece of paper, believed to be drawn by the Renaissance genius Michelangelo, fetched an astounding $201,600, a staggering 33 times more than its estimated worth.
This rare find, glued to the back of a frame and discovered by Christie’s experts, was expected to sell for a modest $6,000 to $8,000. However, the final selling price far exceeded this projection, demonstrating the enduring allure of art treasures with illustrious provenance.
The drawing, depicting a block of marble with the word “simile” inscribed, is thought to have been sketched by Michelangelo during his work on the iconic Sistine Chapel ceiling. Alongside the drawing was a letter from Cosimo Buonarroti in 1836, offering the work of his distinguished ancestor Michelangelo to Sir John Bowring, a significant figure in Hong Kong’s history.
While not directly signed by Michelangelo, extensive research conducted by Christie’s confirmed the attribution to the renowned Italian artist. With fewer than 10 known works by Michelangelo in private hands, this discovery further illuminates the value and intrigue surrounding his artistic legacy.
The unexpected revelation of this piece underscores the vital role of provenance in assessing the worth of artistic masterpieces. Through uncovering lesser-known treasures like this drawing, Christie’s provides a captivating glimpse into Michelangelo’s enduring impact on art and culture, reaffirming the perpetual fascination with heritage artworks.