LOS ANGELES, CA.- Rago and LAMA will present The Thomas D. Kraemer Collection at auction on January 29th, featuring a distinguished selection of modern and contemporary art and design. Assembled by the late scholar, philanthropist, and passionate collector, this offering reflects a life shaped by global travel, intellectual curiosity, and a deep appreciation for aesthetic discovery.

A sophisticated yet free-spirited individualist, Kraemer began studying and collecting contemporary art at a young age, cultivating a thoughtful and cohesive collection informed by trusted experts, fellow collectors, and discoveries made at leading galleries and art fairs around the world. His early affinity for sculpture, lithographs, and wood block prints expanded over time to include large-format photography, mixed media, and works integrating mechanical elements, mirroring his wide-ranging interests and intellectual pursuits.

Art highlights include important sculpture such as Manolo Valdés’s intricate Orchids III (est. $120,000–180,000), cast glass by Stanislav Libenský and Jaroslava Brychtová, and several photographic prints by Edward Burtynsky. Among the significant works of design are Ingrid Donat’s Low Table (est. $50,000–70,000) and Gino Levi-Montalcini’s lounge chair from Villa Levi-Montalcini, Asti (est. $30,000–50,000), alongside notable examples by Paul Evans, Carlo Mollino, and Philip and Kelvin LaVerne.

Kraemer’s passion for architecture and design extended beyond collecting and into the blueprinting of his New York penthouse, as well as the creation of meticulously curated homes in New York, Miami, and Los Angeles—spaces known for their warmth, elegance, and memorable gatherings among friends. His most cherished works reflect a life of travel and study; he earned a Ph.D. from the Wharton School of Business and possessed a deep understanding of global economies, history, and politics.

Selections from The Thomas D. Kraemer Collection will be exhibited in Los Angeles from January 22nd to 29th in the LAMA gallery at 6666 Lexington Avenue. The Thomas D. Kraemer Collection is a live auction in Los Angeles beginning at 10 am pacific on Thursday, January 29th.