Modigliani nude fetches $68.9M in NY

[November 03, 2010]  NEW YORK (AP) -- A painting by Amedeo Modigliani (ah-mah-DAY'-oh moh-deel-YAH'-nee) has sold in New York City for more than $68.9 million, an auction record for the artist's work.

Sotheby's said five different bidders competed Tuesday for "La Belle Romaine," pushing its price well past the $40 million that was expected.

The painting, part of a series of nudes created around 1917, was purchased by an anonymous bidder. The price included the buyer's premium.

Modigliani, who lived from 1884 to 1920, originally focused on sculpture but switched to painting in part because of health problems.

[Associated Press]

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