In 2019, Claude Monet's Meules (Haystacks) from 1890 captivated the art world by fetching an astonishing $110.7 million at Sotheby's New York, establishing a new auction record for Impressionist artworks. This sale is part of a remarkable trend where Monet's serene yet innovative pieces have consistently dominated the market. His depictions of haystacks throughout different times of day, along with the monumental Nymphéas (Water Lilies) series and enchanting Venetian landscapes, have drawn a global audience of collectors eager to embrace his luminous legacy.
Here are some notable pieces that have significantly contributed to Monet's impressive auction track record over the last decade:
Le Pont du chemin de fer à Argenteuil (The Railway Bridge at Argenteuil), 1873-74
This early exploration of industrial modernity sold for $41.4 million at Christie's New York in 2008. The painting beautifully juxtaposes the iron railway bridge with gentle reflections in the Seine, showcasing Monet's ability to blend nature with modernity.
Le Bassin aux Nymphéas (The Water Lily Pond), 1919
Achieving $80.45 million at Christie's London in 2008, this large canvas invites viewers into Monet's tranquil garden. Its soft colors create a dreamlike atmosphere, reflecting the post-World War I era's growing appreciation for Monet's late works.
Nymphéas (Water Lilies), 1906
Sold for $54 million in 2014, this canvas exemplifies Monet's connection to nature, capturing the serene beauty of his Giverny pond with exquisite detail.
Marée basse aux Petites-Dalles (Low Tide at Petites-Dalles), 1884
This vibrant seascape, which achieved $9.9 million in 2016, showcases Monet's brilliance in depicting coastal landscapes with atmospheric depth.
Meule (Haystack), 1891
In 2016, this painting reached $81.45 million, marking a pivotal moment for Monet's rural subjects, which gained significant recognition alongside his grander works.
Nymphéas en fleur (Water Lilies in Bloom), c. 1914-17
This vibrant piece sold for $84.7 million in 2018, highlighting Monet's late experimentation with color and form, which resonates with contemporary collectors.
Meules (Haystacks), 1890
Monet's iconic haystack series culminated in a record-breaking sale of $110.7 million in 2019, emphasizing the artist's enduring appeal.
Le Grand Canal et Santa Maria della Salute (The Grand Canal and Santa Maria della Salute), 1908
This Venetian masterpiece sold for $56.63 million in 2022, showcasing Monet's ability to capture transient light.
Meules à Giverny (Haystacks at Giverny), 1893
This recent sale achieved $34.8 million, reinforcing the demand for Monet's explorations of light and form.
Nymphéas (Water Lilies), c. 1914-17
Securing $65.5 million in 2024, this work exemplifies the transition from Impressionism to abstraction.
Peupliers au bord de l'Epte, crépuscule (Poplars on the Banks of the Epte, at Sunset), 1891
This piece sold for $42.96 million in 2025, showcasing the growing appreciation for Monet's earlier works.
Aux Petites‑Dalles (At Petites-Dalles), 1884
Sold for $7.68 million in 2025, this painting reflects a renewed interest in Monet's coastal landscapes.
Monet's ability to capture the ephemeral qualities of light and nature not only defines his artistic legacy but also shapes the future of art collecting, encouraging a deeper appreciation for Impressionism and its profound impact on contemporary art.