Russian businessman sells the most expensive artwork in auctions' history

Salvator Mundi by Leonardo da Vinci has become the most expensive artwork ever sold at auction, going for $450.3 million at Christie's in New York. The record-breaking price comes as a relief to previous owner, Russian businessman Dmitry Rybolovlev, who bought the painting for $127.5 million back in 2013.

Salvator Mundi depicts Jesus Christ in Renaissance clothing, one hand raised in blessing and the other holding a crystal orb. The masterpieces dates back to beginning of 1500. It is one of fewer than 20 authenticated works by Leonardo.

Original estimates predicted bids of over $100 million for the piece, but much more impressive record was set after approximately 20 minutes of ardent telephone bidding. The price has far surpassed the previous auction record held by Picasso's Les Femmes d'Alger, sold for $179.4 million in 2015.

It is unknown who is the happy buyer. “I cannot say if he or she will want to be public,” commented Christie’s CEO, Guillaume Cerutti.

Russian businessman, investor, and philanthropist Dmitry Rybolovlev is a current chairman and majority owner of AS Monaco football club. Today Monaco fans hope some of the money could be used to bring in new top players.

Russkiy Mir