Record-Breaking Auction: Francis Newton Souza's Masterpieces Shine in London

Francis Newton Souza, a prominent Goan artist, made headlines by setting a new auction record at Sotheby's in London. His landscape piece, 'Houses in Hampstead,' fetched over USD 7.5 million, an amount nearly seven times its original guide price, showcasing the escalating value of his work in the art world.

The recent 'Modern and Contemporary South Asian Art' auction also featured Souza's 'Emperor' painting, which was sold for an impressive USD 6.9 million. In total, five of Souza's works were auctioned, contributing over USD 14.6 million to the auction's earnings. The event's overall sales amounted to USD 25.5 million, including notable artists like M.F. Husain and Vasudeo Gaitonde.

Sotheby's highlighted the auction as a testament to the vitality and diversity of South Asian art, celebrating new world auction records achieved by Souza and others. A bilateral agreement between India and the US regarding cultural property was also noted, advising buyers on potential import restrictions for future purchases.

(With inputs from agencies.)