A Statista chart published in April 2025 shows the geographical distribution of post-war and contemporary art auction revenue worldwide in 2024. The United States dominated with 48% of the combined post-war and contemporary market, followed by China (17%), the United Kingdom (15%), France (6%), Germany (2%), and other countries (11%). When broken down, the U.S. held 50% of post-war and 45% of contemporary revenue, while China captured 13% of post-war and 25% of contemporary revenue, reflecting its stronger position in the contemporary segment.
This data matters because it reveals the continued dominance of the U.S. in the global art auction market, while highlighting China's growing influence in contemporary art sales. The shift in China's share—higher for contemporary than post-war—suggests a strategic focus on younger artists and current production. For collectors, dealers, and investors, these figures inform decisions about where to buy, sell, and position inventory. The report also underscores the concentration of auction revenue in just three countries (U.S., China, U.K.), which together account for 80% of the combined market.