An extraordinary art discovery is set to make headlines when a previously unknown painting by Peter Paul Rubens goes under the hammer at auction house Osenat in Versailles on November 30, 2025. The masterpiece, titled "Christ on the Cross," was found almost by accident during a routine inventory in 2024 and carries an estimated value between $1 million and $2 million.
Jean-Pierre Osenat, the auctioneer based on Avenue de Saint-Cloud in Versailles, remains visibly moved when discussing the remarkable work he's preparing to auction. The painting depicts Christ crucified and represents what many consider an impossible discovery in today's art world. "Rediscovering a Rubens today is an impossible story. All Rubens paintings are catalogued. And yet here we are," Osenat explained, reflecting on the extraordinary nature of the find.
The discovery occurred during an inventory of a private mansion in Paris's 6th arrondissement in 2024. Initially, the painting was not attributed to the famous Flemish master Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640). However, extensive research and authentication would eventually reveal its true origins. When Rubens painted this work, he operated his workshop in Antwerp, Belgium, where twenty to thirty assistants also worked alongside him. When the master was satisfied with a canvas, his assistants would create ten to thirty copies. This practice resulted in numerous workshop paintings circulating throughout Europe.
The painting's journey through history adds another layer of intrigue to its story. Likely brought to France by Napoleon, "Christ on the Cross" later appeared in the collections of painter William-Adolphe Bouguereau (1825-1905) and had remained within that family ever since. The work depicts Jesus crucified with his eyes lowered, almost closed, and a gaping wound on his right side. In the upper left corner, viewers can observe the moon eclipsing the sun, while the background reveals a panoramic view of Jerusalem.
Authenticating the painting as a genuine Rubens proved to be an arduous process. "To get this painting recognized as a Rubens was like running an obstacle course," Osenat recalled. "We conducted examinations on the red pigments, for example, which matched those used by Rubens, and analyzed the brushstrokes." The authentication process required extensive technical analysis and expert consultation to establish the work's provenance and authenticity.
The pivotal moment came when the Rubenianum, the specialized organization dedicated to Rubens' work based in Antwerp, convened to render their verdict. "I was waiting in the courtyard," Osenat remembered, still emotional about the experience. "Nils Büttner, president of the Rubenianum, came to tell me: 'We have a Rubens!'" For the auctioneer, this represents the pinnacle of professional achievement. "For me, this is an extraordinary adventure, something that happens only once in the lifetime of an auctioneer. This is a painting with such power, a magical painting!"
Osenat chose Versailles as the venue for this historic auction, fitting given the city's association with royalty and grand centuries. The auctioneer, who also maintains offices in Paris and Fontainebleau, regularly organizes sales in Versailles focusing on royal themes and historical periods. The auction is scheduled for Sunday, November 30, 2025, beginning at 2:30 PM at the auction house located on Avenue de Saint-Cloud.
Before the sale, art enthusiasts and the public will have the opportunity to view this remarkable discovery during a four-day exhibition. The painting will be displayed at the Château Auction House (13 Avenue de Saint-Cloud in Versailles) with public viewing available Thursday, November 27 through Saturday, November 29 from 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM, and on Sunday, November 30 from 10 AM to noon, just before the auction begins.
"This is a beautiful adventure that will end in Versailles, and I'm happy to share it with the people of Versailles," Osenat emphasized. The discovery and subsequent auction represent a rare moment in the art world, where a lost masterpiece emerges from obscurity to take its place among recognized works by one of history's greatest painters. The upcoming sale promises to attract international attention from collectors, museums, and art lovers eager to witness this extraordinary piece of art history change hands.
