Next week, fans of Sir Elton John’s extravagant fashion will have the opportunity to purchase his most stylish Versace outfits in a massive auction of over 900 items. This includes the contents of the musician’s $7.2 million Atlanta apartment.
The Rockefeller Center location of Christie’s auction house in New York has been turned into a marketplace for John’s personal items. The collection will be split between two live auctions and six online auctions, featuring items such as his famous thick-rimmed glasses and a large art collection with a special section titled “Love, Lust, and Devotion” showcasing his extensive collection of male art.
In November, John sold his condo, which was originally bought for under $1m, in Atlanta for $7m, 45% above the asking price. The singer and his husband, David Furnish, purchased five adjacent units and transformed the duplex into a four-bedroom, seven-bathroom residence.
The bidding will begin on Wednesday evening, and it is predicted that the total earnings from the sale of the couple’s belongings, as well as other items, will surpass $10 million.
The most valuable item available for purchase is believed to be the Banksy original Flower Thrower Triptych, depicting a man appearing to commit a violent act but instead throwing a bouquet. It is estimated to be worth $1 million to $1.5 million.
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Some other items up for auction include silver leather platform boots with the letters E and J in red, worn by John on tour, priced at $5,000 to $10,000. There is also a heart-shaped artwork titled “Your Song” by Damien Hirst featuring a photo of John and Furnish with the message “xxx or Elton + David love Damien Thank You,” estimated to sell for $350,000 to $450,000. Additionally, a Yamaha Conservatory grand piano that John used to practice for Aida and Billy Elliot is also being auctioned, with a value of $30,000 to $50,000.
A pinball machine created for Jersey Jack Pinball showcases John’s likeness and plays popular songs such as Tiny Dancer and Rocket Man.
In the popular 1975 song, John proclaims himself as a master of pinball with the opening verse: “From my youth, I’ve been skilled in playing the silver ball. / I’ve played all across Soho and Brighton.” This item is valued at $10,000 to $15,000, and all profits will be donated to the Elton John Aids foundation.
Tash Perrin, the deputy chair of Christie’s Americas, expressed that this remarkable collection not only features a wide range of exceptional items that represent Elton’s distinctive life, career, and artistry, but also offers a glimpse into how deeply the city of Atlanta influenced him.
“We are delighted to present a diverse sale that includes a carefully curated collection of photographs, artworks, fashion, and costumes. This collection serves as a tribute to the unique vision, creativity, and impeccable taste of one individual.”
There are so many items of clothes and jewellery that Christie’s is holding three dedicated auctions for them, including one called: The Collection of Sir Elton John: Out of the Closet.
One section focuses on his Versace assortment, which celebrates the close and impactful bond between the renowned musician and iconic designer. According to Christie’s, the collection provides insight into the deep connection between these two influential individuals in the realms of music and fashion.
The catalogue for the collection, titled Goodbye Peachtree Road in honor of John’s 13,500 sq ft apartment in Atlanta, is priced at £50.
Source: theguardian.com
