A rare lunar meteorite, weighing just over two kilograms and originating from Mali, West Africa, is one of the star attractions at Christie’s Shanghai auction preview. Discovered five years ago, the meteorite was cut into several pieces for scientific study. This fragment, consisting of rock fragments and lunar glass, is considered exceptionally rare, according to Lin Ziyun, a classical art expert at Christie’s.
“The estimated value is between 2 and 3 million RMB. Lunar meteorites are extremely rare, with less than 900 kilograms found on Earth. This slice is the largest in private ownership,” Lin noted.
The Shanghai preview also showcases other remarkable items, including an original manuscript by Mozart and a draft of Einstein’s field equation. Artworks by the acclaimed artist Yayoi Kusama, whose pieces have previously fetched millions, are also on display.
The auction highlights China’s growing influence in the global art market. According to a recent industry report, Chinese collectors have now overtaken those in Britain, representing the largest share of art collectors worldwide. This shift underscores China’s expanding cultural and economic footprint in the high-value auction market.