NEW YORK, NY.- The live and online only auctions of The Private Collection of Joan Rivers realized a combined $2,495,250, concluding on June 23, 2016, selling 281 out of a total of 294 lots.
Melissa Rivers remarked: This auction was an important testament to my mothers legacy. Im delighted that the many works of art in her collection sold at Christies found new homes across the world, and my sincere wish is that the things she loved will be cherished for years to come. She would have been touched, as I have been, by the love and support expressed by her fans.
Gemma Sudlow, Head of Department, Private & Iconic Sales,
Christies Americas, continued: We are honored to have been entrusted with the Private Collection of the great Joan Rivers. The tremendous success of this sale speaks to her legacy as both a pioneering comedienne and a passionate collector. From the moment that we announced the sale, we witnessed a remarkable outpouring from her fans and admirers. We continued to see that same enthusiasm at every step of the auction process, from the bustling exhibition to the packed saleroom to the eager bidding in the online only sale. Bidding came in from every corner of the world with registrants from more than 30 countries, many of which were clients that were new to Christies. It was a privilege to have had the opportunity to work with Ms. Rivers estate in presenting this distinctly iconic collection.
The online auction realized well above the sale high estimate, with active global participation and competitive bidding on signed jewels, costumes and more.
Online sale highlights included:
A Black Diamond and Diamond Ring, which realized $11,250 against a high estimate of $5,000
An Antique Multi-Gem and Diamond 'Prince-Of-Wales' Brooch, $10,625
A Gold and Citrine Necklace, $9,375
The live auctions top lot was A Jeweled Gold-Mounted Nephrite Photograph Frame, Marked Fabergé, Moscow, circa 1898. Which sold for $245,000 against an estimate of $40,000 - $60,000.
Additional live highlights included:
'Spike's' Silver Dog Bowl, Mark Of Tiffany & Co., New York, 20th Century, which realized $13,750 against an estimate of $500-800.
A Pair Of Louis XVI Style Cream-Painted Canapes, 20th Century, realized $37,500 against an estimate of $3,000-5,000.
A Faux-Ivory Toilette Set Retailed by Penhaligon's, London, 20th Century, realized $4,000 against an estimate of $300-500