What's Happening?
A portrait by Venetian artist Rosalba Carriera has sold for £508,000 at an auction, setting a new world record for her work. The painting, a portrait of Coulson Fellowes, exceeded its pre-sale estimate of £15,000 to £25,000 by more than 20 times. The auction was conducted by Cheffins in Cambridge, and the portrait was purchased by a UK-based private collector. Painted in 1724, the artwork had remained in the Fellowes family collection until recently. Carriera, known for her pastel portraits, was a prominent artist in the 18th century, with works housed in major galleries worldwide.
Why It's Important?
The sale of Carriera's portrait at such a high price highlights the enduring value and appeal of historical art. It reflects the growing interest in and appreciation for works by female artists from the past, who are often underrepresented in art history. The auction result may encourage further exploration and recognition of Carriera's contributions to the art world. Additionally, the sale underscores the strength of the art market, particularly for rare and historically significant pieces, and may influence future valuations of similar works.
