NEW YORK – In a bidding battle, the painting “Washington Crossing the Delaware,” which earlier hung at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, sold for $45 million at the Christie’s auction house. Christie’s did not identify the buyer. The painting, by artist Emanuel Leutze, had been valued ahead of e auction at $15 million to $20 million. Christie’s commission is negotiable but typically is 13.5%. for high value items.  Winona collectors Mary Burrichter and Bob Kierlin had put the painting up for auction.

Earlier: To Christie’s: “Washington Crossing Delaware”