19th Century European Paintings

S otheby’s 19th Century European Paintings Department presents the finest masterpieces from leading European schools and movements, offering exceptional works ranging from Orientalist and Barbizon to Academic and Victorian art. Our sales regularly feature important paintings by major figures of the 19th century, including Gustave Courbet, Jean‑Baptiste‑Camille Corot, William Bouguereau, Joaquín Sorolla, Jean‑Léon Gérôme, James‑Jacques‑Joseph Tissot, John William Godward, Adolph von Menzel, and Vilhelm Hammershøi. These artists remain central to collectors and institutions in 2026, reflecting ongoing global demand for high‑quality European works of this period.

Our international team sources outstanding paintings from around the world, preparing highly curated auctions that attract both seasoned collectors and new buyers. Their deep scholarship and trusted relationships have delivered unmatched results across the category, including record‑setting sale totals and the highest price ever achieved in the field: $36 million for Sir Lawrence Alma‑Tadema’s The Finding of Moses. This standard of excellence continues to define our performance in 2026, as interest in 19th‑century European art remains strong across global markets.

Auctions are held year‑round in New York, London, Paris, and Zurich, offering collectors numerous opportunities to acquire important works. In New York, our dynamic January and May sales align with major marquee auction weeks, showcasing exceptional paintings from both Continental and British schools and consistently achieving record‑breaking prices. London hosts dedicated sales in July and December, highlighting masterpieces from leading Continental European artists, as well as our annual Orientalist auction in late April. In Paris, the June sale Tableaux et Dessins Anciens du XIXe Siècle offers significant French and European works, while Zurich’s June and December sales of Swiss Art present rare pieces by celebrated Swiss painters.

Sotheby’s continues to lead the market for 19th Century European Paintings by combining deep expertise, global reach, and a track record of outstanding results. Collectors, estates, and institutions are invited to explore upcoming auctions, consign works for future sales, and connect with our specialists for tailored guidance and confidential valuations.