'The Scream' grabs attention at Sotheby's

May 2, 2012 6:47 AM

'The Scream' goes on display — Gallery technicians at Sotheby's auction house handle 'The Scream' by Edvard Munch on April 12, 2012 in London, . The iconic painting is on public exhibition in London for the first time ahead of its auction in the 'Impressionist and Modern Art Evening Sale' at Sotheby's New York on May 2, 2012 where it is expected to fetch in excess of $80 million.
Oli Scarff/Getty Images

NEW YORK (AP) -- One of the art world's most recognizable images -- Edvard Munch's "The Scream" -- could sell for $80 million or more when it is sold at auction in New York City.

The 1895 painting -- a modern symbol of human anxiety -- is being offered for sale at Sotheby's Wednesday evening. The image of a man holding his head and screaming under a streaked, blood-red sky is one of four versions by the Norwegian expressionist painter. The one at Sotheby's is the only one left in private hands.

It's being sold by Norwegian businessman Petter Olsen. His father was a friend and patron of the artist.

Proceeds will go toward the establishment of a new museum, art center and hotel in Norway.

Gallery

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