Rediscovered Picasso portrait of muse Dora Marr sells for €32 million

The AKAA 2025 arts fair in Paris is celebrating its 10th edition by showcasing the incredible work of African artists, including Zimbabwean sculptor Victor Nyakauru and South African photographer Gavin Goodman. Nyakauru's passion for transforming found objects into art highlights important themes of environmental sustainability, while Goodman’s 'Vela series' beautifully merges African heritage with contemporary visual storytelling. This event not only honors the rich cultural contributions of African artists but also sparks vital conversations about sustainability and heritage in the art world.

A remarkable story unfolded when a lost painting by Salvador Dalí, initially purchased for just £150, was sold at auction for an astonishing £47,700. Discovered by a Cambridge antiques dealer during a house clearance, this watercolor and felt-tip illustration, depicting an 'old sultan,' showcases the unexpected treasures that can emerge from everyday situations. This sale not only highlights the enduring value of Dalí's work but also excites art collectors and enthusiasts alike, reminding us of the hidden gems that may be lurking in plain sight.

A stunning 1943 portrait by Picasso, featuring his muse Dora Maar, is making waves as it heads to auction in Paris after being hidden from the public for over 80 years. This vibrant piece, titled 'Bust of a Woman with a Flowered Hat,' not only showcases Picasso's artistic brilliance but also tells a story of love and creativity during a pivotal time in their relationship. Its return to the spotlight is significant for art enthusiasts and collectors alike, marking a rare opportunity to own a piece of history.

A recent video has surfaced showing the alleged thieves escaping from the Louvre after stealing €88 million worth of France's crown jewels. The footage captures two individuals using a mechanical ladder in broad daylight, looking around nervously as they make their getaway. This incident highlights significant security lapses at one of the world's most famous museums, as the Louvre's director acknowledged that staff failed to detect the thieves due to limited camera coverage. The ongoing investigation raises concerns about the safety of cultural treasures and the effectiveness of museum security.

A powerful tornado struck Val-d’Oise in northern France, causing significant destruction and leaving over 100,000 homes without power. The town of Ermont was particularly hard hit, with toppled construction cranes and damaged buildings. Tragically, one person lost their life, and four others sustained critical injuries. This event highlights the increasing severity of weather patterns and the urgent need for communities to prepare for such natural disasters.

Scientists in Paris have made exciting discoveries about snake bites by studying the speed at which different snakes strike their prey. This research not only sheds light on the fascinating mechanics of these strikes but also has important implications for understanding snake behavior and improving medical responses to snake bites. By revealing the secrets behind these rapid attacks, the study enhances our knowledge of wildlife and could lead to better safety measures for those living in snake-prone areas.

Böcker, a family-run German company, has cleverly turned a recent Paris robbery at the Louvre into a marketing opportunity. After their furniture lift was used in the heist, they launched a tongue-in-cheek ad campaign with the tagline 'When you need to move fast.' This not only highlights their product but also capitalizes on the publicity surrounding the event, showcasing their ability to adapt and innovate in challenging situations.

Naomi Beckwith, the Deputy Director and Chief Curator of the Guggenheim in New York, is currently in Paris for her new exhibition at the Palais de Tokyo, titled 'Echo Delay Reverb – American Art – Francophone Thought.' In an interview with France 24, she described the exhibition as a love letter to France, highlighting how the innovative ideas from 1960s France influenced American art. This exhibition is significant as it bridges cultural dialogues and showcases the interconnectedness of art and thought across borders.

The Pentagon has announced the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier to Latin America, a move aimed at bolstering regional security and combating drug trafficking. This significant increase in military presence reflects the U.S. commitment to addressing challenges in the Western Hemisphere, which is crucial for maintaining stability and safety in the region.

As the Premier League gears up for an exciting matchday, fans are buzzing with anticipation for the concurrent games at Manchester's iconic stadiums, Old Trafford and the Etihad. This unique scheduling has sparked discussions about the logistics and excitement of having two major matches happening at the same time. It's a thrilling time for football enthusiasts, especially with the Lionesses facing Brazil, showcasing the growing popularity of women's football. This weekend promises to be a highlight for fans, making it a significant moment in the football calendar.

The rugby union international Test between Japan and Australia is taking place at the Japan National Stadium, which was the venue for the 2020 Olympics. The match is expected to be played in light rain, adding an interesting dynamic to the game. This event is significant as it showcases international rugby talent and fosters sportsmanship between the two nations.

Today marks an important moment in UK politics as Labour is set to announce its new deputy leader, with Lucy Powell reportedly leading the polls over Bridget Phillipson. This announcement is significant as it could shape the party's direction and influence upcoming elections. Following the announcement, speeches from the winner and the prime minister are anticipated, adding to the day's political excitement.

Prince Andrew's financial situation has become a topic of increasing interest as questions arise about how he maintains his luxurious lifestyle despite being an outcast from the royal family. With no clear source of income, the scrutiny surrounding his finances reflects broader concerns about accountability within the monarchy. Understanding how he funds his life is not just about one individual; it raises important questions about the financial practices of royals and their implications for public perception.

In the third men's one-day international cricket match at the SCG, Australia was all out for 236 runs, while India aims to avoid a whitewash in the series. The match is generating excitement as fans follow the live updates, particularly noting Travis Head's strong performance early in the game. This match is significant as it reflects the competitive spirit between these two cricketing nations and could influence future series outcomes.