Monet's painting 'Iris' fetches 50 million euros and breaks French auction record

Claude Monet's painting 'Iris' was auctioned in Paris for 50 million euros, setting a record for the highest price ever paid for a work at auction in France. The painting, created towards the end of Monet's life, was initially estimated to sell for 22 to 30 million euros. Measuring 1.60 meters high and 1.80 meters wide, 'Iris' had never left the Schlumberger family's Parisian mansion before the auction and was largely unknown to the public, with only a black-and-white photo existing. Jeanne Schlumberger, a notable art collector, purchased the piece directly from Monet's family. This sale coincides with the centenary of Monet's death, prompting two exhibitions in Paris celebrating his work and influence.