Des O'Sullivan: Quality is the currency that counts in the international art boom

In this thriving market, collectors show strict discernment as they part with their money

The New York home of Terry and Jean de Gunzburg.

Record half-year results at Christie's and Sotheby's reveal an international market that is booming. In an unequal world that is wealthier than ever before, it has been an extraordinary year so far on many fronts.

In the first six months of 2026, consolidated sales at Sotheby's hit $4.4 billion (€3.85 billion), a 58% increase on the same period in 2025. Christie's reported first-half revenues of $4.6 billion (€4.02 billion) in the same period and sold the most expensive painting.