Richard Lloyd, Christie's international head of prints and multiples, made an unexpected discovery during a routine consignment evaluation several years ago that would lead him on an international quest to solve an art mystery. The expert encountered something he had never seen before in his career - a print of a familiar Edvard Munch artwork that appeared authentic and bore a signature, yet didn't match any of the known states or versions of that particular work.
The mysterious print puzzled Lloyd, who couldn't make sense of its origins despite his extensive expertise in the field. The discovery of this enigmatic piece set him on a mission to uncover its true nature and authenticity. The unusual characteristics of the print suggested it might be significant, but without matching it to known documentation, its value and legitimacy remained uncertain.
Lloyd's investigation ultimately took him to Oslo, Norway, the home city where the renowned Norwegian artist Edvard Munch lived and worked until his death in 1944. During his research trip to the Norwegian capital, Lloyd was able to make what he describes as an important discovery that helped solve the puzzle surrounding the mysterious print he had initially encountered.
The expert's journey to Oslo proved fruitful, as he returned with a different print from the prestigious Munch Museum. This particular work represents a significant find, as versions of this print have commanded impressive prices at auction, selling for more than $1 million. The discovery highlights both the complexity of authenticating works by major artists like Munch and the potential value that can be unlocked through careful research and expert analysis.
