10 Sumptuous Old Master Still Lifes Inspired by Caravaggio

During the 16th and early 17th century, Caravaggio invigorated still life painting across Italy with a degree of naturalism and detail never before seen, creating lustrously life-like fruits and flowers arranged in dynamic, considered compositions. So powerful was mercurial artist’s influence that an entire generation of artists throughout Italy and Europe came to be called the Caravaggisti. A visual feast of such still lifes are offered at no reserve in Sotheby’s upcoming auction Master Paintings (22 May, New York). For the stories behind ten of these works, click ahead. Master Paintings 22 May | New York

First Look: A Tintoretto from The Met & More Master Paintings

This May, fantasy portraits, bountiful still lifes and gold-ground paintings will all feature in Sotheby’s Master Paintings auction in New York. Among the highlights are a gilded triptych by Sano di Pietro, a three-quarter length portrait by Tintoretto – hailing from The Metropolitan Museum of Art – and paintings of two of France’s most notorious female figures: the Marquise de Pompadour and Marie de' Medici. Ahead, view these paintings and other must-see works from the sale and be sure to visit Sotheby’s New York galleries where these select works will be on view from 14–24 April. Master Paintings 22 May | New York

Anatomy of an Artwork: Allegory of Spring

Sotheby’s Old Masters Online auction offers an attractive selection of still lifes, the highlight of which is this fascinating anthropomorphic Allegory of Spring. Based on Arcimboldo's 1573 painting of spring in the Musée du Louvre, Paris, the present painting from afar might look like a mere head in profile, but up close it's an incredibly accurate depiction of lush greenery and colorful flora. Under Arcimboldo's influence, the artist created a human portrait cleverly composed of blossoming flowers, purposefully selecting and strategically placing individual elements to create the anatomical shape of a human. Click through to learn more about the symbols in this painting that allude to the spring season. Old Masters Online 10–24 April | Online

Works from the Berkshire Museum Collection

Sotheby’s is pleased to present works of art sold to benefit the Berkshire Museum. All sale proceeds will support the institution’s new vision – the creation of an exciting interdisciplinary museum, with a heightened emphasis on science and history as well as the arts. Click ahead to view some of the highlights from the collection. Impressionist & Modern Art Evening 14 May | New York Contemporary Art Evening 16 May | New York Master Paintings 22 May | New York European Art 22 May | New York American Art 23 May | New York

Masters Week Totals $82.5 Million, Lead by Titian, Lancret and Velázquez

Sotheby’s Masters Week achieved an extraordinary $82.5 million across six sales, nearly twice the 2017 series results. Among the more than 650 paintings, drawings and sculptures sold were a pair of immaculate Venetian views by Canaletto, which earned $4.2 million. The week's three private sales saw remarkable results, garnering a combined $23 million. For more of the best auction moments from Masters Week, click ahead. And while the sales may be over, two exhibitions of Spanish Golden Age paintings are on view through 11 February in our New York galleries. Selling a work of art, fine timepiece or jewel with Sotheby’s is simple. Click here for more information about consigning with Sotheby's.

Van Dyck Captures the Innocence of a Prince

Sir Anthony van Dyck was one of the few artists who was able to capture the natural charm of childhood. Portrait of Prince Willem II of Orange will be offered in the Master Paintings Evening Sale on 1 February 2018 in New York.