Picasso Artworks Auctioned Amid Controversy and Scandal
Published on 7.31.25
The US Marshals Service is conducting an online auction of four artworks by Pablo Picasso, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Diane Arbus, all forfeited to federal authorities as part of the 1MDB financial scandal. The Texas-based auction house Gaston and Sheehan has been contracted to handle the sale, which began on July 16 and will conclude on September 4. Industry professionals have described the pieces as exceptional quality works with low opening bid amounts compared to historical market values. However, concerns about the auction platform's credibility and the artworks' controversial origins may deter serious collectors. The artworks were previously owned by Malaysian financier Jho Low, who is a fugitive from justice, and were gifted to actor Leonardo DiCaprio.