Long-Unseen Van Gogh, Monet and Cézanne Paintings Head to Auction

A remarkable collection of 12 paintings by some of the world’s most celebrated artists is set to return to public attention after spending decades largely hidden from view.

The collection includes works by Vincent van Gogh, Paul Cézanne and Claude Monet, along with paintings by other major artists. Together, the works are expected to fetch around $450 million at an auction in New York on November 18, 2026.

The paintings were part of the private collection of Argentine collectors Carlos Pedro Blaquier and Nelly Arrieta de Blaquier. Many of the works have not been publicly displayed for roughly 50 years.

A Rare Look at Van Gogh

One of the most closely watched paintings is Vincent van Gogh’s Châtaigniers en fleurs, a vibrant work painted in 1890 during the final months of the artist’s life.

The painting is estimated at approximately $180 million, making it one of the most valuable works in the collection. Sotheby’s is presenting the work digitally ahead of its journey to the auction.

The painting was created while Van Gogh was living in Auvers-sur-Oise, shortly after his release from the psychiatric asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.

Cézanne and Monet Also Featured

Another major highlight is Paul Cézanne’s Arlequin, which carries an estimated value of about $120 million. It is reportedly the only version of the artist’s harlequin paintings still held in private hands.

Claude Monet is also represented by Le Jardin des Tuileries, adding another major Impressionist work to the collection.

Five of the paintings were unveiled at Sotheby’s in London, while other works are being presented digitally and will travel to different galleries before the New York auction.

A Collection Returning to the Public Eye

The significance of the collection goes beyond its estimated price. Several of the paintings have been largely absent from public view for decades, meaning the upcoming auction offers art lovers an opportunity to see works that have remained outside the spotlight for generations.

With masterpieces by Van Gogh, Cézanne and Monet appearing together after such a long period of privacy, the November sale is expected to attract considerable attention from collectors and museums around the world.

Sources

• Reuters — “Long-unseen works by Van Gogh, Cezanne, Monet estimated at $450 million before auction”
• People — “Rarely Seen Collection of Paintings by Van Gogh, Monet and Cezanne Expected to Sell for $450 Million”