Titian's Early Masterpiece Anticipated to Fetch a Whopping $32 Million

The captivating painting by the Italian Renaissance master, "The Rest on the Flight into Egypt," is scheduled for auction at Christie's in July. The artwork, which portrays Joseph, Mary, and Jesus taking a respite during their escape to Egypt from King Herod, is estimated to be sold at an astounding $32 million. The painting is a tender display of maternal affection, featuring Jesus leaning into his mother and tugging at her hair.

Historical Journey of a Cherished Masterpiece

Believed to have been painted by Titian in his early twenties in Venice, "The Rest on the Flight into Egypt" has had a fascinating history. It has been owned by numerous European aristocrats and was once looted by Napoleonic troops during the French occupation of Vienna in 1809. After being returned to Vienna, it found its way into private collections, eventually ending up with John Alexander Thynne, the 4th Marquess of Bath in England.

A Stolen Art Piece and its Miraculous Recovery

In 1995, the painting disappeared from the nobleman's home in Wiltshire, England. It remained missing for seven years until, amazingly, it was found in a plastic bag at a bus stop in southwest London. This recovery was made by Charles Hill, an art detective. The painting was returned to Longleat House, the nobleman's home, although what happened to it during its missing years remains a mystery.

Back Under the Hammer: A Rare Opportunity

After more than 145 years, "The Rest on the Flight into Egypt" is set to be auctioned again. Christie's estimates the painting to fetch between $19 million to $31.7 million. This painting, admired by both aristocrats and emperors, is a testament to Titian's prowess as a Renaissance artist. It has been lauded for its vibrant colors and the portrayal of familial affection set within the natural world.

A "Sublime Early Masterpiece"

Orlando Rock, Chairman of Christie's UK, describes the painting as a "sublime early masterpiece." He also notes its unique distinction of being stolen twice. Andrew Fletcher, Christie's Global Head of the Old Masters Department, underscores the significance of the artwork, stating that it is one of the most important works by Titian to come to the auction market in over a generation.

A Chance to Own a Piece of Art History

The auction of "The Rest on the Flight into Egypt" offers an exclusive opportunity for art enthusiasts and collectors to own a piece of art history. It presents an exciting chance to become part of the next chapter in the fascinating story of this famed painting. As the bidding begins, the art world eagerly awaits to see who will secure this extraordinary masterpiece.

The upcoming auction of "The Rest on the Flight into Egypt" is set to be a significant event in the art world. With an estimated value of $32 million, this early masterpiece by Titian has intrigued audiences for centuries with its heartwarming portrayal of the Madonna and Child. Its intriguing history, which includes being stolen and miraculously found, only adds to its appeal. As the gavel falls and the painting finds its new owner, it will undoubtedly continue to be admired as a remarkable piece of Renaissance art.