Italian painting found on bus stop sells for record $22.3 million

A remarkable painting by Italian Renaissance master Titian, discovered in a plastic bag at a London bus stop, has sold at auction for a staggering $22.3 million, setting a new record for the artist.

“The Rest on the Flight into Egypt” sold at auction at Christie’s in London on Tuesday, exceeding its estimate of £15 million to £25 million ($19 million to $32 million), the auction house said.

Describing the painting, Christie’s said: “The painting depicts Jesus, Mary and Joseph resting on their way to Egypt after learning that Herod, king of Judea, wanted to kill the young Christ.”

Titian, also known as Tiziano Vecellio, created this work in the early 16th century, showcasing his early genius in a compact format, measuring just 18.25 inches by 24.75 inches (46.2 centimeters x 62.9 centimeters).

The painting’s journey through history adds to its charm. It was looted by Napoleonic troops during the French occupation of Vienna in 1809, then later returned, and has since travelled through various private collections. It eventually ended up in the possession of John Alexander Thynne, 4th Marquess of Bath, at Longleat in Wiltshire, England.

By a twist of fate, the painting was stolen from Longleat in 1995 and disappeared for seven years until it was unexpectedly discovered at a London bus stop by art detective Charles Hill.

Orlando Rock, Chairman of Christie’s UK, commented on the auction result: “This painting has captured the public imagination for over half a millennium and will undoubtedly continue to do so. It is a tribute to the impeccable provenance and quiet beauty of this sublime early masterpiece by Titian.”