The Historic Reappearance and Disappearance of Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Salvator Mundi’

Da Vinci’s masterpiece signals a seismic shift in the art market

(L) Agents speak on their phones with their clients while bidding on at the auction of Leonardo da Vinci's "Salvator Mundi" during the Post-War and Contemporary Art evening sale at Christie's on Nov. 15, 2017 in New York City. (Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/Getty Images) (R) “Salvator Mundi,” circa 1500, by Leonardo da Vinci (1452–1519). Oil on walnut wood panel, 25 7/8 inches by 18 inches, private collection. Christie’s

 NEW YORK—In the realm of the art market, the discovery and sale of Leonardo da Vinci’s “Salvator Mundi” is the most exciting reappearing and disappearing act of the century.

The old master’s representation of Christ as the “Savior of the World” was owned by King Louis XII of France, King Charles I, King Charles II, King James II of England, and several other royals and art collectors. It vanished for nearly 200 years.