A drawing by the famous artist Michelangelo, which was recently discovered, has been sold for $27.2 million at an auction in the United States yesterday, setting a new record for this leading artist of the Renaissance. The small drawing of a foot, done in red chalk, is one of about 50 studies Michelangelo made for the Sistine Chapel, one of his most famous works. Christie's, based in New York, said the drawing sold for about 20 times its low estimate after a heated 45-minute bidding war. The house did not disclose the buyer's identity. Only about 10 drawings by Michelangelo are known to be in private hands. Christie's confirmed the drawing was by Michelangelo after its owner sent a photo to an online auction estimation portal. An expert confirmed that it represents the right foot from a fresco located at the far east of the Sistine Chapel ceiling. "This was an exceptional piece with a wonderful story," said Andrew Fletcher, Worldwide Head of Old Master Pictures at Christie's, in a statement. He added, "We had offers from multiple bidders, whether in person, on the phone, or online, as this was likely the only opportunity that art collectors would ever have to acquire a study for what is arguably the greatest work of art ever made." The previous record for a Michelangelo work was $24.3 million.
