What's Happening?
A rare 17th-century still life painting by Dutch Golden Age artist Maria van Oosterwijck was sold at Christie's Paris for €406,400 ($477,000), nearly tripling its high estimate. This sale marks the second highest auction price ever achieved for van Oosterwijck, a trailblazing female painter recognized for her meticulous flower paintings. The painting was part of the Stern family collection, known for their refined taste and contributions to cultural institutions. Van Oosterwijck, who produced only about 30 paintings in her lifetime, was celebrated during her era, with patrons including Emperor Leopold I of the Holy Roman Empire.
Why It's Important?
The sale underscores the growing recognition and value of works by female artists from the Dutch Golden Age, a period
traditionally dominated by male painters. This auction result highlights a shift in the art market, where collectors are increasingly valuing the contributions of women artists. The Stern family's decision to auction this piece also reflects a broader trend of prominent collections being made available to the public, offering new opportunities for art appreciation and study. The high sale price may encourage further exploration and valuation of underrepresented artists in historical art markets.
