The world’s most expensive painting, Salvator Mundi by Leonardo da Vinci, is coming to Louvre Abu Dhabi.
The $450million masterpiece, dating from around 1500, will become the jewel in the crown of the capital’s stunning art hub when it arrives in September.
Art lovers and members of the public will be flocking to the Saadiyat Island museum to catch a glimpse of the awe-inspiring painting by Italian renaissance master da Vinci.
Tourism bosses in the capital can’t contain their excitement at the arrival of Salvator Mundi, which will underline Abu Dhabi’s growing status as a world-renowned arts and culture destination.
HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “The Salvator Mundi highlights the inclusive nature of Louvre Abu Dhabi’s narrative and Abu Dhabi’s mission to promote a message of acceptance, and openness.
“It is an opportunity for Abu Dhabi’s residents and visitors from around the world to engage with a rare and iconic work of great cultural significance at Louvre Abu Dhabi. Lost and hidden for so long in private hands, Leonardo Da Vinci’s masterpiece is now our gift to the world.
“It belongs to all of us, who will have the chance to stand before it, and bear witness to the mastery of one of the most significant artists in living history.
“His innovative breaks from the artistic standards of his day have guided generations of artists since. He is among the most influential artists in history, having left a significant legacy not only in the realm of art but in science as well, each discipline informing his mastery of the other. Today, no name better seems to symbolise the Renaissance age than Leonardo da Vinci.
“His Salvator Mundi represents an important chapter in the history of art, and offers a fully-rounded view of his artistic output.
“It will play a significant role in Louvre Abu Dhabi’s curatorial narrative, representing a critical moment of historical change that illuminates social evolution at that time.”
Acquired by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi in 2017, Salvator Mundi is one of fewer than 20 known surviving paintings by da Vinci.
Salvator Mundi is an oil on panel painting, executed onto a walnut panel.
It is believed to be a contemporary of both La Belle Ferronnière and the Mona Lisa.
It will be unveiled to the Abu Dhabi public on September.
HE Saif Saeed Ghobash, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “At more than 500 years old, Salvator Mundi still retains a remarkable presence and the lingering sense of mystery that characterises Leonardo’s finest works.
“As one of history’s greatest painters, polymaths and thinkers, da Vinci left his stamp on many of the disciplines that have shaped the modern world.
“He has remained an outstanding cultural icon and as such, his work has an important role to play in Louvre Abu Dhabi’s universal narrative, which encapsulates the history of humanity.
“With Salvator Mundi on display, we will be able to honour the influential legacy of da Vinci’s creative genius, share this extraordinary artwork with the world, and inspire a new generation of cultural leaders and creative thinkers.”
