A painting by Renaissance master Titian, once plundered by Napoleon’s troops and part of royal collections for centuries, has been auctioned for over $22 million. This masterpiece, “The Rest on the Flight into Egypt,” was stolen from a British marquess’ home in 1995 and astonishingly discovered in a plastic bag at a bus stop in London seven years later.
Recently sold at Christie’s, the painting set a record for Titian, who is renowned for his exceptional use of color and profound influence on 16th-century Venetian art. The auction house had described it as “the most important work by Titian to come to the auction market in more than a generation.”
Christie’s UK chairman, Orlando Rock, stated, “This result is a tribute to the impeccable provenance and quiet beauty of this sublime early masterpiece by Titian, which is one of the most poetic products of the artist’s youth.”
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The artwork portrays a serene biblical scene with Joseph, Mary, and a young Jesus, inspired by their flight to Egypt. Titian’s unique “colorito” technique, which emphasizes the expressive use of color, is evident in this work, contributing to his international acclaim for religious paintings, portraits, and mythological subjects.
This historic sale underscores the enduring legacy and immense value of Titian’s art in the modern world.
