Christie’s New York will auction a recovered Fernand Léger painting in April 2025, once looted by the Nazis and now expected to sell for millions.
A Work Rescued by History
Fernand Léger’s 1921 modernist painting Jeune fille au bouquet returns to the market this April with a powerful story. Once looted by the Nazis during World War II, the piece was later recovered by Rose Valland, a heroic art historian who helped preserve countless stolen artworks.
The piece has been in private hands since its recovery and was most recently part of the late Joseph H. Hazen’s estate—a Hollywood producer known for his impressive art collection.
Estimated to Fetch $5–$7 Million
Now heading to Sotheby’s New York, the painting is projected to sell for between $5 and $7 million. Experts say its turbulent provenance and unique history add extraordinary value.
This rare auction signals the continued interest in art with deeply personal and political backstories.
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Historical Importance Drives Market Value
Léger’s bold use of form and color continues to resonate with collectors worldwide. The painting’s emotional and cultural weight, coupled with Valland’s role in preserving it, makes it a centerpiece for collectors valuing both legacy and aesthetics.
As restitution-era artworks reemerge, their significance in both market and memory remains unmatched.