"Iris" and "Weeping Willow": unseen Monet paintings go on sale in Paris
A rare moment arrives as two previously unseen Monet canvases, Iris and Weeping Willow, are set to appear at Sotheby's Paris on 22 October. For a century the works have lingered behind the curtains of the Schlumberger family living room, never displayed publicly and untouched by varnish or restoration.
Curators highlight the extraordinary condition of the paintings: they remain on their original canvas, preserving the thick impasto that defines Monet’s late style. Preserving the material, they argue, is essential to truly experience the artist’s hand.
The auction coincides with the centenary of Monet’s death and two major retrospectives in the city, adding symbolic weight to the sale. With a combined estimate that could exceed 30 million euros, the offering is part of a larger 28‑work auction expected to raise more than 40 million euros, featuring other masterpieces by Monet, Camille Claudel, Gustave Moreau and a three‑panel composition by Paul Cézanne.
Collectors and institutions are watching closely, as the French state has a limited window to intervene on works designated national treasures. The appearance of these hidden gems promises to reshape the market and finally give the public its first glimpse of Monet’s late vision in full colour.