The ownership of Edvard Munch's iconic artwork, "The Scream," varies depending on which of its four primary versions is being referred to, as there are two painted versions and two pastel versions. One specific pastel version is privately owned, while the others are held by public institutions in Norway.
The Privately Owned 1895 Pastel Version
The version of "The Scream" that captured global attention in 2012 for its record-breaking sale is an 1895 pastel on cardboard. This particular rendition is currently owned by Leon Black, a prominent American financier and private-equity baron.
- Acquisition Details: Black, a New York-based graduate of Dartmouth and Harvard, was identified as the "mystery buyer" who purchased this significant artwork. He acquired it in May 2012 for a staggering $120 million at a Sotheby's auction, making it one of the most expensive artworks ever sold at that time. His acquisition brought this version of "The Scream" into private hands, distinguishing it from the publicly accessible versions.
Publicly Owned Versions of The Scream
Beyond the privately held pastel, three other significant versions of "The Scream" are housed in public museums in Oslo, Norway, making them accessible to art enthusiasts and the general public.
- The National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design (Nasjonalmuseet), Oslo: This museum proudly displays one of the two painted versions of "The Scream," completed in 1893. It is perhaps the most recognized and frequently reproduced version.
- The Munch Museum (Munchmuseet), Oslo: This museum holds the remaining two versions:
- An additional painted version from 1910.
- Another pastel version, also from 1893.
These publicly owned works are central to Norway's national heritage and Edvard Munch's legacy.
Overview of "The Scream" Versions and Ownership
To provide a clear understanding, here's a breakdown of the primary versions of "The Scream" and their current custodians:
| Version Type | Date | Current Owner | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Painted | 1893 | National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design | Oslo, Norway | Considered the most famous version. |
| Pastel | 1893 | Munch Museum | Oslo, Norway | One of the early pastel versions. |
| Pastel | 1895 | Leon Black (Private Collection) | New York, USA | Purchased in 2012 for $120 million. |
| Painted | 1910 | Munch Museum | Oslo, Norway | Created later, with some stylistic differences. |
Each version, while depicting the same iconic, anguished figure against a vibrant, swirling landscape, possesses unique characteristics and a distinct history of ownership.
