Record Setting Art Sale Supports Global Wildlife Conservation Efforts
In a remarkable blend of art and conservation, a drawing by Rembrandt has achieved a record sale of $17.9 million at Sotheby’s, with proceeds dedicated to the survival of lions in the wild. The piece, titled Young Lions Resting, is a rare representation of the majestic creature, and its sale is a beacon of hope for wildlife conservation efforts globally.
An Artwork with a Purpose
The drawing, one of only six known drafts of lions by the Dutch master, has a compelling provenance, having resided in the private collection of Dr. Thomas S. Kaplan and his wife. Kaplan is not only a prominent art collector but also a leading figure in conservation through his organization, Panthera, focused on the protection of wild cats. The sale's proceeds will directly support initiatives aimed at ensuring the lion's survival, representing a powerful connection between the worlds of fine art and wildlife conservation.
The Impact of the Sale
Dr. Kaplan expressed the profound synergy between his passion for art and wildlife preservation, noting that this record sale will aid in combating the pressures faced by lions in their natural habitats. Occasionally replaced by a stark reminder of extinction, a reproduction of the drawing entitled Young Lion Vanished visually emphasizes the critical state of lion populations, which have plummeted across 95% of their historical range.
Looking to the Future
As Panthera celebrates its 20th anniversary, the funds raised from this auction will play a crucial role in fostering human-wild cat coexistence and landscape protection efforts across 40 countries. Dr. Kaplan's empathetic approach underscores the importance of addressing human-animal conflict, vital for ensuring the future of lions beyond mere survival as relics of the past.
The successful outcome of this auction stands as a testament to the collective efforts of art lovers and conservationists alike, demonstrating that cultural heritage can enrich and sustain the natural world. Kaplan believes the lion is capable of securing its future in the wild, and with initiatives like these, there is hope that the majestic creature will continue to roam freely for generations to come.
