Michelangelo’s Recovered Sistine Chapel Drawing Fetches $27.2 Million at Christie’s Auction

An exceptional red chalk artwork by Renaissance icon Michelangelo has achieved a new auction milestone, fetching $27.2 million at Christie’s in New York on February 5, 2026. This small yet important piece serves as a preparatory sketch for the right foot of the Libyan Sibyl, one of the grand figures depicted on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.

Created approximately between 1511-1512, the drawing is from the time when Michelangelo was conceptualizing the fresco style for the Sistine Chapel. Although it is only about 5 inches high, the sheet showcases the artist’s meticulous examination of anatomy and motion. The contorted foot mirrors the lively pose observed in the final painted representation above in the Vatican.

The artwork emerged after its owner provided a photograph to Christie’s for appraisal. Experts confirmed its authenticity as a drawing by Michelangelo after conducting further examination and analysis. Extremely few of his surviving sketches are in private ownership, making this find particularly remarkable.

Initially estimated at $1.5 million to $2 million, the drawing vastly surpassed predictions. Bidding extended for over 45 minutes before hitting the final $27.2 million amount, setting a new auction record for the artist.

Beyond the notable outcome, the sketch provides significant insight into the creative journey behind one of the most revered masterpieces of the Renaissance. While visitors must gaze upwards to observe the completed Libyan Sibyl standing above them in the Sistine Chapel, the intimate drawing brings Michelangelo’s craftsmanship and artistic choices to eye level.