Breaking News: The 1960s Counterculture Artist Peter Max Has Died, Sotheby’s Paris to Auction Possible Record-Breaking ‘Iris’ Monet Painting, and More: Morning Links for September 17, 2026 — 65 words
The 1960s counterculture artist Peter Max (1937–2026) has died, ARTnews reports. Separately, Sotheby’s Paris will offer Claude Monet’s Iris—one of the last Monet irises still in private hands—at an autumn sale that could test French Impressionist records. ARTnews also reports the U.S. Interior Department circulated guidance listing 12 warning signs indicating potential inaccuracies in Smithsonian Institution exhibits. These developments have immediate market and institutional implications.Breaking News: Monet ‘Iris’ Painting—Last of its Kind in Private Hands—Could Break French Record at Sotheby’s Paris — 70 words
In October, Sotheby’s Paris will offer Claude Monet’s Iris from the private Jeanne Schlumberger collection, ARTnews reports. Described as the last of its kind remaining in private hands, the canvas leads a discreet trove of Impressionist and Modern works estimated overall at more than $45 million. The sale, drawn from a secretive collection, could set a French auction record for Monet and will be watched closely by museums and collectors.--- *Sources: ARTnews.*
