It's an earthquake in the world of auctions... Chardin's Enameled Melon has just shattered all historical sales records during a spectacular sale at Christie's Paris, thus establishing a new record for the artist and for an 18th century painting. French century.
He would have had enough to “take the melon”… Jean Siméon Chardin, undisputed master of still life, transcends the ages with a work that combines simplicity and poetry. The Melon commenced, signed and dated 1760, is a unique oval masterpiece. Its composition, combining a slice of melon placed on a whole melon, surrounded by bottles and a pitcher, evokes a rare serenity and visual harmony. The delicacy of the light and the balance of the forms demonstrate the genius of Chardin.
This painting, presented at the Salon de l’Académie in 1761, has a rich and fascinating historical journey. It was initially acquired by Jacques Roettiers, goldsmith to Louis XV, and passed into the hands of the Marcille family before joining the prestigious Rothschild collection. The painting, which remained in this collection until it was put on sale, testifies to the constant and renewed interest in Chardin's art.
A few months ago, a work by Chardin – The Basket of Wild Strawberries – had already caused an earthquake in the art world, sold for 24.3 million euros at the Louvre after an intense patronage campaign.
"The Melon Engraved" outperformed this sale, reflecting the growing appreciation for Chardin's masterpieces, often perceived as old-fashioned, but whose timeless beauty continues to enchant collectors and art lovers.
Record broken with a sale sold for 26.7 million euros!
The achievement of this sale lies not only in the colossal amount achieved, but also in the historical and emotional resonance of the work. The painting traveled, being exhibited in New York and Hong Kong before returning triumphantly to Paris for this memorable auction. Pierre Etienne, international director at Christie's, called "The Melon Started" a "pure moment of pictorial poetry," a description that perfectly captures the essence of this masterpiece.
This event highlights the vitality and enduring appeal of Chardin's still lifes, works that, through their apparent modesty, reveal extraordinary depth and sophistication. This record sale marks a milestone in auction history and reaffirms Chardin's status as a giant of 18th-century painting.