In an extraordinary event, Sotheby’s recently facilitated the remarkable sale of a drawing by the legendary artist Rembrandt for an impressive $18 million. This piece, known as one of only six drawings of lions created by the master, holds the distinction of being the sole example in private ownership.
The proud owner of this magnificent artwork is Dr. Thomas S. Kaplan, alongside his wife. Not only are they renowned collectors of Rembrandt, but they are also passionate advocates for wildlife conservation, particularly for the majestic lion depicted in the drawing.
Dr. Kaplan is the visionary founder behind both the Leiden Collection, showcasing Dutch and Flemish masterpieces, and Panthera, a leading global organization dedicated to the preservation of wild cats, both big and small. In a remarkable fusion of interests, he plans to use the proceeds from the record-breaking $17.9 million sale to actively support lion conservation efforts, ensuring that these magnificent creatures endure long into the future.
Titled Young Lions Resting, Rembrandt’s drawing showcases a lion in a relaxed yet powerful stance, brought to life through masterful strokes and detailed shading that captures its intense gaze.
Dr. Kaplan expressed his excitement about this purchase, noting that it represents the highest amount he and his wife have ever invested in a single object. Their journey into collecting began in 2003, and he fondly recalled a pivotal moment when he showed the drawing to his wife. Her enthusiastic response was, “It’s a Rembrandt, it’s a lion, and it’s beautiful; if it’s not for you then who’s it for?”
There are only six known lion drawings by Rembrandt, and Young Lion Resting marks the first time one of these remarkable pieces has appeared on the market in a century. The staggering sale price sets a new benchmark for Rembrandt’s drawings, surpassing the previous record by nearly $15 million.
Dr. Kaplan co-founded Panthera with the esteemed conservationist Dr. Alan Rabinowitz just a year after acquiring this exquisite drawing in 2005. The sale of Young Lion Resting coincided with a poignant reproduction titled Young Lion Vanished, which poignantly represents the stark reality of the lion’s diminished habitat—a sobering reminder that 95% of their natural range has been lost.
“Is it savable? Yes, it is! The lion has potential for larger landscapes compared to the tiger in India. However, in 26 out of the 48 countries it once roamed, it has become extinct,” Dr. Kaplan remarked, emphasizing his deep commitment to lion conservation, which goes beyond mere financial support to encompass active scientific involvement.
While Panthera has made significant strides in protecting species like leopards and jaguars, Dr. Kaplan points out that efforts concerning lions often feel like “playing defense.” He confidently stated, “The lion is not gone yet, but its future is uncertain. I don’t believe it will ever be completely extinct in the wild, but it may only survive in isolated reserves. We are determined to change this narrative.”
