Maastricht, Netherlands: Despite economic uncertainties and upcoming EU regulations affecting art imports, the European Fine Art Fair (Tefaf) in Maastricht has kicked off with promising sales and high-profile acquisitions. The prestigious event, which runs until March 20, has drawn leading museums, collectors, and art institutions from around the world.

Among the standout works at the fair is Vincent van Gogh’s Still Life with Two Sacks and a Bottle (1884), showcased by Rau Gallery and priced at $4.4 million. Meanwhile, a New Orleans dealer is presenting Paul Cézanne’s Fleurs dans un Vase avec Partition Musicale (1874-76).

The fair’s Showcase section highlights newer galleries, with Raphael Durazzo featuring abstract works by Hilla Rebay, an influential figure in the early Guggenheim Museum. In a nod to growing recognition of female artists, collector Christian Levett acquired a portrait of Marie Bracquemond (1840-1916), a rediscovered Impressionist, from Galerie Pauline Pavec.

As always, Tefaf features a diverse range of rare and historical artifacts. Highlights include a 16th-century ceramic waterspout from the Dome of the Rock (€500,000, Sam Fogg), a Northern Song pottery jar brimming with ancient bronze coins (Vanderven Oriental Art), and a rare Inuit child’s jacket made of seal intestines (Patrick Mestdagh). Kugel is also exhibiting an early 17th-century anatomical model of a woman, valued in the low seven-figure range.

This year’s €50,000 Tefaf Restoration Fund was awarded to the Musée Condé in Château de Chantilly for the conservation of Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, a masterpiece of illuminated manuscript art set to be displayed from June to October.

An exquisite Book of Hours from around 1509, once owned by Catherine of Aragon and depicting her alongside Henry VIII, is also on view. Dr. Sara Oberg Stradal of Jörn Günter Rare Books noted a shift in buyers, revealing that women—particularly younger collectors—are increasingly investing in historical manuscripts.

Dealers have expressed optimism despite the challenging economic climate. Frank Prazan of Applicat Prazan reported early successes, selling three pieces, including Serge Poliakoff’s Composition en bleu (circa 1953) for €1.3 million. “The fair has started well for me, and I have interest in other works. I am optimistic,” he said.

Tefaf Maastricht remains a premier destination for art collectors, reaffirming its role as a key marketplace for historic and contemporary masterpieces.