In Moscow, a December auction turned into a dazzling highlight for the Russian art market. Ivan Aivazovsky’s painting “Galata Tower in Moonlight” was sold for an impressive 130 million rubles, reaffirming the legendary seascape artist’s enduring appeal among collectors and art enthusiasts.

Painted in 1845, during Aivazovsky’s fascination with the East, the artwork offers a mesmerizing view of Constantinople under a moonlit sky. Measuring 52 by 80 cm, the painting captures the ethereal glow of moonlight dancing on water, with the iconic Galata Tower standing tall against the dreamy backdrop. It’s a scene that transports viewers straight into the serenity of an Eastern night.

Even before the auction, excitement surrounded the piece, with initial estimates valuing it at 150 million rubles. While the final hammer price of 130 million fell slightly below expectations, the sale nonetheless ranks among the most significant in recent Russian auction history.

Adding to the allure of this masterpiece is its remarkable provenance: the painting once belonged to Emperor Nicholas I. This imperial connection not only heightens its historical value but also makes it a trophy acquisition for any serious collector.

The sale underscores the growing demand for Russian art on the global stage, as well as Aivazovsky’s unrivaled ability to capture light and motion. His mastery of marine landscapes, paired with his capacity to evoke emotion, continues to resonate with audiences centuries after his time.

Auctions like this are more than just transactions—they are milestones in the preservation and celebration of cultural heritage. Each piece that finds a new home carries with it the legacy of its creator and the stories it tells, keeping the magic of art alive for generations to come.

Author: art historian and art critic Madina Ibragimova.