The most expensive works of art in history: explore the sales records

In 2020, among the record sales identified by Rise Art, two iconic works stand out for their historical and artistic impact, and continue to inspire collectors, amateurs and art enthusiasts.

1. Bal du Moulin de la Galette (1876) - Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Sold for a staggering $143 million, Renoir's Bal du Moulin de la Galette holds a prominent place among the most expensive works of its era. This iconic scene of working-class Paris captures the effervescence of a festive Sunday in Montmartre: shimmering light, elegant figures, a pastoral atmosphere, and a city in motion. More than just a painting, it is a window onto a historical moment, shaped by Impressionist light and Renoir's soft palette. The price achieved illustrates the power of color, movement, and pictorial emotion. To frame it appropriately, specialists recommend a classic frame in finely molded wood, with a warm brown or subtle gold finish and anti-reflective glass, to restore the vibrancy of the light while protecting the delicate pigments.

2. Portrait of Doctor Gachet (1890) - Vincent van Gogh

Built around the gaze directed at his doctor and friend, this portrait is worth $152 million and remains one of the pinnacles of posthumous art pricing. Painted just a few months before Van Gogh's death, this work reveals the sensitivity of his vibrant brushstrokes, his expressive palette, and the emotion contained in the Doctor's posture. The scene, both intimate and universal, embodies the urgency and fragility of life. In terms of framing, such a precious work calls for simplicity and conservation: a narrow black or dark brown frame, possibly a discreet mesh profile, museum-quality UV-protective glass, and a conservation mount are essential to protect the work from the ravages of time.