The iconic painting "Kvitebjørn kong Valemon" by Theodor Kittelsen has set a new auction record in Norway, selling for 36 million kroner at Grev Wedels Plass Auksjoner in Oslo.

This sale surpasses the previous record of 14 million kroner for another Kittelsen piece, "Andersnatten.

" The painting, a national treasure, is based on a Norwegian fairy tale and is considered a significant part of Norway's cultural heritage.

The buyer remains anonymous, raising concerns about the painting's future accessibility to the public.

The Nasjonalmuseet expressed interest in acquiring the piece but was unable to compete financially.

The sale has sparked discussions about the importance of keeping national cultural assets accessible to the public.