19th century

Impressionism and post-impressionism concentrate a third of the volume. Their major works reach records, such as Falaises d'Étretat at €52.1 million. Orientalism is enjoying renewed interest, driven by collectors from the Middle East, while realism and romanticism benefit from the return of landscape painting.

Academicism, long neglected, is being rediscovered: large-format works of impeccable execution attract new buyers.

19th-century paintings have suffered from unstable painting practices: bitumen that cracks, whites that yellow, varnish that darkens. Many were relined or cleaned in the 20th century, sometimes excessively.

The conservation report is a key document for this segment: it indicates areas of wear, overpaint, the nature of the support and earlier treatments. A painting in fine original condition can be worth twice a heavily restored painting.

The 19th century appeals through the accessibility of its subjects: landscapes, portraits, scenes of daily life. Collectors find a rare balance there between emotion, quality and price. Museums also draw on it to complete their collections.

The segment is less speculative than contemporary art: prices rise more slowly, but with less risk. It is the preferred segment of long-term collectors.