Most Valuable Art Collections in the World

Some may find it ironic that art collection has become a form of art in itself, as collectors strive to curate prized collections. This is true for museums as well, as they can display these collections for the world to enjoy.

Did you know that sometimes a museum will be granted the opportunity to display a private piece or collection as part of their own? It isn't uncommon. However, it does add a layer of complexity to the art trading world.

Let us take a few moments to look through some of the world's most impressive (and valuable) art collections.

Ezra and David Nahmad

Brothers Ezra and David Nahmad arguably have one of the world's most (if not the most) valuable art collections. Their collection is valued at around three billion dollars, though this is a rough estimate.

At any given time, the brothers' collection will include over five thousand pieces, including several high-value investments. For that is how the brothers view their collection - as an investment. Rumor has it that they are the proud owners of several Picassos, among other pieces.

David Geffen

Next up, we have David Geffen's collection. His collection includes masterpieces such as Jackson Pollock's Number 5 and Willem de Kooning's Woman III. In total, his collection is valued somewhere around two point three billion dollars. His philanthropic take on the matter makes David Geffen stand out from other art collectors. It is not uncommon for him to donate significant sums to local museums, frequently breaking donation records.

Eli and Edyth Broad

Following behind Geffen is Eli Broad, with a collection valued at around two billion dollars. Like Geffen, Eli Broad is a firm believer in philanthropy, making a concentrated effort to donate as much as he collects. Eli Broad's art collection famously began with the acquisition of Van Gogh's Cabanes a Saintes-Maries. Since then, he has collected dozens of other valuable pieces.

Philip Niarchos

Philip Niarchos' collection is of similar value to Eli Broad's, including famous pieces such as Van Gogh's Self Portrait and dozens of other Van Gogh pieces. His Van Gogh collection is his name to fame of sorts. He is believed to have the most extensive Van Gogh collection in the world. His son has since inherited the collection and has added to the collection, including a self-portrait by Jean-Michael Basquiat.

Bernard Arnault

If you're looking for a more contemporary art collection, look no further. Bernard Arnault is famous for his collection of contemporary artwork, including works by Pablo Picasso, Gerhard Richter, Pierre Huyghe, and Andy Warhol. Much of Arnault's collection is available for public viewing through the Fondation Louis Vuitton.

Charles Saatchi

Charles Saatchi is an art dealer and collector, allowing him access to countless unique and historical pieces. His specialty is contemporary art, and he is famous for having worked with many of the artists he now collects. His pieces include works by Andy Warhol, Julian Schnabel, and Sol LeWitt.

Francois Pinault

Francois Pinault is the mind behind several iconic fashion brands, including Gucci and Yves Saint-Laurent. He is also an art collector who prefers modern and contemporary artwork. His collection consists of approximately twenty-five hundred pieces, including a few Warhol, Rothko, and Koons.

Steven Cohen

Steven Cohen uses his significant income to support his art collection. Cohen is open to collecting artwork from various styles and periods, unlike many other collections. His collection includes Gaugin, Van Gogh, and De Kooning, among others.

Jay-Z

It is always fascinating to discover that some of the top celebrities have their art collections. Nearing the top celebrity art collectors is Jay-Z. His collection is worth more than a billion dollars, with Koons and Warhols helping to fill the collection nicely.