Record Auction of Rembrandt's Lion Drawing to Benefit Conservation Efforts

On February 4, 2026, a drawing by Rembrandt titled *Young Lion Resting* sold for $18 million at Sotheby’s New York, setting a new record for the most valuable work on paper by the 17th-century Dutch artist. The previous record was $3.7 million, achieved in 2000 for *Portrait of a Man with Arms Akimbo*. The drawing, measuring 11.5 x 15 cm, is notable as the only known animal study by Rembrandt still in private hands, with the other five lion drawings held in public collections such as the British Museum and the Louvre.

Small Rembrandt lion drawing sells for record US$17.9m at Sotheby’s New York

The proceeds from the auction will benefit Panthera, a nonprofit organization co-founded by billionaire philanthropist Thomas Kaplan and wildlife biologist Alan Rabinowitz. Panthera is dedicated to the conservation of wild cats and their habitats across more than 40 countries. Kaplan expressed that the sale aims to attract more attention to wildlife conservation, stating, “Wildlife conservation is the one passion I have which surpasses Rembrandt.” The funds will support initiatives to combat poaching and habitat loss, ensuring the survival of big cats like lions.

Billionaire Tom Kaplan Auctions Rare Rembrandt Lion Drawing for $18M to Help Save the Animal it Depicts

*Young Lion Resting* is believed to have been drawn from life, showcasing Rembrandt's ability to capture both the physical form and psychological presence of the lion. The drawing features a young lion in a relaxed yet alert posture, characterized by detailed strokes that convey its vitality. This piece is particularly significant as it reflects Rembrandt's artistic peak during the late 1630s to early 1640s.

Small Rembrandt lion drawing sells for record US$17.9m at Sotheby’s New York

While the auction has been celebrated for its record-breaking sale and philanthropic goals, some critics question the ethics of auctioning high-value artworks for conservation. They argue that such sales can create a disconnect between art and its intended purpose, potentially prioritizing financial gain over genuine conservation efforts.

Small Rembrandt lion drawing sells for record US$17.9m at Sotheby’s New York

Auctioneer David Pollack remarked on the drawing's extraordinary value, stating, “This extraordinary drawing has captured the hearts of everyone who has seen it—a true testament to Rembrandt’s genius.” Kaplan emphasized the synergy between art collection and wildlife conservation, noting that the sale provides critical resources for Panthera’s ongoing efforts.

Rare Rembrandt Drawing Nets Record-Smashing $18 Million at Auction

• “Wildlife conservation is the one passion I have which surpasses Rembrandt – and I want to attract more people to that cause,” — Thomas Kaplan, Co-founder of Panthera

Rembrandt lion drawing raises $18m for big cat conservation at US auction

• “The pulse of life that Rembrandt captured in this lion’s gaze continues to beat today through our conservation field programs,” — Jon Ayers, Chair of Panthera

Billionaire Tom Kaplan Auctions Rare Rembrandt Lion Drawing for $18M to Help Save the Animal it Depicts

The funds raised from the auction will support Panthera's initiatives aimed at fostering human-wild cat coexistence and protecting critical landscapes. As Panthera approaches its 20th anniversary, the organization plans to continue its efforts to ensure the survival of wild cats globally, particularly in regions where they face significant threats.

Billionaire Tom Kaplan Auctions Rare Rembrandt Lion Drawing for $18M to Help Save the Animal it Depicts