Christie’s Bets Big on Asia: Monet's "Nymphéas" to Lead $35M Auction in Hong Kong

Christie’s is set to inaugurate its new Asia headquarters in Hong Kong with a landmark evening sale on September 26, headlined by Claude Monet’s iconic Nymphéas (1897–99). Estimated at HK$200 million to HK$280 million ($25 million to $35 million), the painting is one of the most valuable Western artworks ever offered at auction in Asia. This masterpiece, depicting the water-lily pond at Monet’s Giverny home, is making its auction debut after 125 years, having remained within the artist’s family for many years after his death in 1926. The auction house’s decision to feature this piece underscores their confidence in the growing market for blue-chip Western art in Asia, despite recent challenges in the global art market. Nymphéas will be showcased alongside Zao Wou-ki’s 05.06.80–Triptyque (1980), estimated at HK$78 million to HK$128 million ($10 million to $15 million), at the newly designed Henderson building. As Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and Bonhams all expand their presence in Hong Kong, the success of these high-profile auctions will test the region’s appetite for Western masterpieces.