A Screen Siren's Things

Bonham's has the privilege of auctioning off the vast and varied collections belonging to Lauren Bacall, who passed away in August.  The iconic Dakota apartment, which is presently on the market for $26 million, was home to this extraordinary woman and her extraordinary treasures.  Ms. Bacall spent more than 30 years in this apartment overlooking Central Park.

            "This collection is truly a reflection of her extraordinary life and remarkable taste."
Her sitting room was were she received guests.  The walls were covered in an eclectic array of art.  The Calder's live comfortably with a watercolor done by Lauren's friend and godmother to her son, Katherine Hepburn.  The room, more intimate in size, was casual and comfortable, just the way she liked it.

The dining room, decorated like an English country house housed Belle Épogue posters and antique ceramics.

The living room or great room was was just that.  She entertained in this space.  It featured her collection of pewter and African art.  An homage to Bogey?

Leonard Bernstein tickled the ivories on this baby grand piano which is part of the auction.

The painting over the bed was from the home she shared with Bogey in LA in the 40's and 50's.  The paintings on either side are by Henry Moore, and a David Hockney rests over the secretary.

More than 3 million dollars worth of jewelry, real and costume, like these Jean Schlumberger pieces are part of the auction.  It is a small part of a 700 piece lot.

A print, American White Pelican, by artist John James Audubon is estimated at a whopping $40,000.00 to $60,000.00.  The pelican was her favorite bird, and she owned an assortment of things with the image because she thought it possessed dignity, strength and character.  I don't know that I would have ascribed those characteristics to a pelican, but I certainly would describe Ms. Bacall that way.

I predict a collection of more than 25 pieces of Louis Vuitton luggage, some monogramed, with an estimate of $2,500.00-$3,3500.00 will be a highlight!

2 Pembroke Studio Chairs lithograph by David Hockney estimated at $5,000.00 -$7,000.00.  There was an earlier auction this past November showcasing a small part of her art collection.

Ms. Bacall developed a friendship with Henry Moore.  She owned 6 of his statues, and this, which sat on her mantle, is estimated at between $40,000.00 and $60,000.00.  It is a smaller version of a bronze he did.

Picasso's Face in a Square plate and Woman Faced Wood Owl jug, estimated between $6,000.00 and $9,000.00 per are spectacular!

The collection is presently being previewed in London and the auction takes place in New York
 March 31st and April 1st.  Check it out if you are so inclined.

FIT will host an exhibition of her clothing, possibly this Spring.

Jon King, Bonhams' Vice President and Director of Business Development, captured the excitement at the company: 'Bonhams is extremely honored to represent the estate of Lauren Bacall at auction. Ms. Bacall has been not only an international treasure to the public at large, but also a long-time friend to Bonhams over the years. We are looking forward to providing the public with a rare glimpse into Ms. Bacall's formidable collecting sense and intuitive style.'



Ph:via People magazine