Iris Sold for 50 Million Euros: Hidden Monet Painting Breaks Records in Paris
Claude Monet's Iris sold for 50 million euros at Sotheby's in Paris, setting a new record in France.
Translated by Qiyas from الأنباء — Original source
After decades out of the public eye, Claude Monet’s painting “Iris” (Irises) has returned to the spotlight, setting a record in the history of art auctions in France.
On October 22, 2026, the painting was sold at Sotheby’s in Paris for 50 million euros (approximately $56 million), including fees, surpassing estimates ranging from 22 to 30 million euros.
The auction featured a 45-minute bidding battle among six participants, with the painting ultimately won by an Asian art collector who bid via telephone.
Monet painted the work between 1924 and 1925 in his garden in Giverny, France, during his final years when he was suffering from deteriorating eyesight. The canvas measures 160 centimeters in height and 180 centimeters in width.
The painting remained part of the Schlumberger private collection and had never been publicly exhibited since its completion.
The price represents the highest nominal value achieved for a work of art sold at auction in France, although Picasso’s “Wedding of Pierrette” retains the top spot when adjusted for inflation.
Total sales from the Schlumberger collection reached 74.4 million euros. Monet’s global auction record remains at $110 million, set by “Haystacks” in 2019.
