Hundreds of art enthusiasts gathered in Hong Kong on Tuesday to catch a glimpse of Vincent van Gogh’s painting Châtaigniers en fleurs (Chestnut Trees in Blossom), which has not been publicly exhibited for over 60 years. This rare opportunity comes ahead of its auction at Sotheby’s in New York on November 18, where it is expected to fetch around $180 million, potentially setting a new record for a Van Gogh work.
The upcoming auction is seen as a significant test for the high-end art market, which has remained resilient despite broader economic uncertainties. Scott Niichel from Sotheby’s modern and contemporary art department noted that the painting represents a vibrant period in Van Gogh’s life, painted just two months before his death in 1890.
A Rare Opportunity for Art Lovers
The painting, created in May 1890, is one of the most important works from Van Gogh’s final days in Auvers-sur-Oise, France. It features a striking depiction of a chestnut tree in full bloom, showcasing the artist’s characteristic use of color and emotion. Art lovers like Li Shanshan, who traveled over two hours from Shenzhen, expressed their excitement, stating, “I’d never heard of this painting before, so I wanted to see it with my own eyes.”
This exhibition is part of a larger collection of 12 long-unseen works, which also includes pieces by renowned artists such as Paul Cézanne and Claude Monet. The unveiling of these works at Sotheby’s in London in late September has already generated significant interest among collectors and museums alike.
The Painting’s Journey Through Time
After Van Gogh’s death, Châtaigniers en fleurs passed through several notable owners, including his brother Theo and later his widow Johanna van Gogh-Bonger. It eventually came into the possession of German publisher Samuel Fischer before being acquired by American songwriter George “Buddy” DeSylva. In 1953, the painting was purchased by collector Harriet Harris-Jonas, whose collection was significant enough to warrant private viewings at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.
The painting was last acquired by the Blaquier family in 1975, and its upcoming auction marks a pivotal moment for both the artwork and the art market as a whole. As collectors and investors prepare for the auction, the anticipation surrounding this Van Gogh masterpiece continues to grow, highlighting the enduring appeal of his work in the contemporary art scene.
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