In a spectacular display of auction prowess, the Jules Speelman Collection garnered a total of โฌ15.2 million at Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr in Paris, far surpassing its pre-sale estimate of โฌ4.2 million. The auction, consisting of 28 exquisite lots, was 93% sold by lot and 100% by value, underscoring the intense demand for Asian Art and Buddhist Sculpture curated over 60 years by the esteemed dealer and collector, Jules Speelman.
In a thrilling auction event, a remarkable bronze sculpture by Rembrandt Bugatti has set a new world record, fetching an impressive โฌ3,678,400 at Bonhamsโ Impressionist and Modern Sale on June 5, 2024. The 69-lot auction, which amassed a total of โฌ5,207,738, witnessed fierce bidding for this iconic piece, culminating in enthusiastic applause when the hammer finally fell.
Prepare for an extraordinary journey as cult artists The Connor Brothers partner with Bonhams for a spectacle unlike any other. Set to unfold on June 12th at Bonhams New Bond Street, London, the “Anything But Ordinary” auction promises a captivating showcase of remarkable treasures, with special attention given to the magnificent Triceratops Skull.
In the captivating tale of Amedeo Modigliani’s artistic journey, his female nudes emerge as iconic symbols of both aesthetic brilliance and commercial success. From the early encounters that marked his life and art to the collaborative efforts with his life partner Jeanne Hรฉbuterne, Modigliani’s work evolved into masterpieces highly sought after by collectors and museums worldwide. The recognition of his unique style propelled his paintings to unprecedented heights in the art market, with hammer prices skyrocketing from the 1980s onwards. The story unfolds with dramatic price increases, culminating in staggering records set in the 21st century. Modigliani’s female nudes stand not only as timeless works of art but also as symbols of the enduring allure and value of artistic genius.
In a dazzling display of horological excellence, Bonhams Hong Kong Watches auction witnessed a spectacular moment on May 28 as a rare Richard Mille Rafael Nadal RM27-01 carbon skeletonized tourbillon wristwatch set a new record. Fetching an astonishing $1,170,000 US ($9,148,000 HK), this exclusive timepiece has become the highest value wristwatch ever sold at Bonhams.
The auction was a resounding success, generating a total of ยฃ713,344. An impressive 91% of the lots were sold, with 97% sold by value, reflecting the strong demand and competitive bidding. The star of the auction was a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, stainless-steel automatic chronograph bracelet watch, reference 116500LN, circa 2019. Known as the LN reference ‘lunette noir’ due to its black Cerachrom bezel and white dial, this sought-after piece surpassed its pre-sale estimate, fetching ยฃ20,480.
The highlight of the auction was an extraordinarily rare Meissen group of lovers with a birdcage, which sold for โฌ171,850, more than quadrupling its low estimate. This piece, first documented in the work records of J.J. Kaendler in March 1741, captivated bidders with its historical significance and intricate craftsmanship. Another standout item was a rare Meissen crinoline figure of a lady from around 1737, which fetched โฌ127,400, exceeding its low estimate by over six times.
A remarkable find in the world of antique firearms, a cased 15-bore percussion four-shot superimposed load officerโs pistol, believed to be the only one of its kind, will take center stage at Bonhamsโ upcoming auction of Antique Arms & Armour in London. The auction, which will also include items from the esteemed Per T. Norheim Collection and Modern Sporting Guns, is scheduled to run online from May 13 to May 22 on Bonhams.com
In a surprising turn of events at Bonhamsโ Important Instruments of Science and Technology Sale in London on April 24th, a remarkably rare 15th-century astrolabe soared past its pre-sale estimate, fetching an impressive ยฃ508,400 ($635,000). Jon Baddeley, a specialist at Bonhams, expressed his astonishment at the outcome, stating, โThis is one of the strongest results weโve seen at auction at Bonhams Knightsbridge in the past decade.โ Describing the astrolabe as an “early smartphone of sorts,” Baddeley emphasized its multifaceted utility, noting its significance in timekeeping, navigation, celestial observation, and even decision-making.
Racing aficionados and collectors are gearing up for an electrifying moment at The Bonhams|Cars Monaco Sale, ‘Les Grandes Marques ร Monaco’, on May 10th, as one of the most historically significant Formula 1 cars makes its way to the auction block. The 1957-58 Lotus-Climax Type 12 chassis โ353โ, estimated at โฌ290,000 โ โฌ390,000 ($308,000 โ $415,000), is poised to steal the spotlight, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of motorsport history.
