As of this writing, the world’s most expensive painting is “Salvator Mundi” (The Savior of the World), which sold at auction for an astronomical $450 million to a Saudi prince in 2017.
The work is attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, but is it really his, or is it one of dozens of reproductions of the work that were preserved? This question has preoccupied the art world over the last two decades, and this film – which turns into a nerve-wracking thriller that delves into the details – tries to find the answer. Every detail in the painting’s history and movements across the world is explored, including a precise exploration of how Jesus’ thumb is depicted and a comparison with other da Vinci works.
Another question that adds to the mystery is where is the painting today? Why has it not been exhibited since its acquisition? That part of the mystery has yet to be solved even after watching the film.