A masterpiece from the Italian Renaissance, “Crucifixion” by Fra Angelico, recently set a new auction record for the artist.
An anonymous buyer purchased the piece for roughly $6.4 million at Christie’s on July 6, 2023, marking a standout event for the summer art auction season.
This unique occurrence echoes the 2017 sale of Leonardo da Vinci’s “Christ as Salvator Mundi” also at Christie’s, which broke records with its $450 million price tag.
However, the religious gravitas of Fra Angelico’s work surpasses that of Leonardo’s. The Dominican friar, born Guido di Piero, dedicated his life and art to his faith, creating numerous religious murals in San Marco convent, Florence, where he resided.
Despite his global acclaim during his lifetime, including commissions from successive popes, Fra Angelico’s fame dwindled for centuries, before experiencing a resurgence in the 19th century. This revival coincided with a renewed appreciation for early Renaissance art, particularly deeply spiritual works.
Though the sales of Fra Angelico’s works are sparse, their emotional intensity and sheer beauty attract both religious and secular art lovers alike, signifying the enduring power of this Italian Renaissance pioneer.
Learn more about the “Saint Painter” who was said to have “a rare and perfect talent” 👉
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