A painting that was almost auctioned off for $1,600 three years ago has now been identified as a lost masterpiece by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, the Italian Baroque artist. The Prado in Spain announced that this painting, entitled Ecce Homo, will be displayed publicly for the first time on May 27, as reported by the Associated Press.
The artwork, which portrays Jesus Christ being presented to the crowds shortly before his crucifixion, is recognized as one of only 60 existing paintings by Caravaggio. It was previously part of the private collection of King Phillip IV of Spain, according to the Prado.
Ecce Homo (circa 1605-09) was initially scheduled for auction in April 2021 as a piece attributed to José de Ribera, a student of Caravaggio. However, the sale was stopped and an export ban was imposed by Spanish authorities after the Prado alerted them to the painting's significant provenance.
The painting had been in the possession of a Madrid family since the 19th century. After thorough inspection and restoration, the regional government of Madrid authorized the family to proceed with the sale. The Associated Press reported that the painting's value could have reached tens of millions of dollars, if not higher.
The new, anonymous owner selected the Prado to debut the painting. Since April 2021, the artwork has been managed by the Colnaghi art gallery, working with specialists, and underwent restoration by expert Andrea Cipriani, overseen by authorities from the Madrid regional government.
Ecce Homo will be exhibited until October, after which it will enter the museum’s permanent collection for an additional four months.
Selena Mattei