In a dazzling spectacle of high-stakes bidding, the illustrious collection of the late Dutch connoisseur-collector Cornelis Paulus van Pauwvliet took center stage at Bonhams New Bond Street on Tuesday, November 21. The auction, a crescendo of anticipation, saw a remarkable total of £2.86 million change hands as passionate art enthusiasts vied for a piece of cultural history.
Pearls, once considered outdated and too traditional, have made a remarkable resurgence in the world of jewelry in recent years. Symbolizing wealth, prestige, and femininity, pearl jewels have transcended ages, fashions, and styles with unparalleled elegance. Constantly elevated by daring jewelers, pearls hold a special place in the history of jewelry. “The Pearl Odyssey” retraces the captivating story of pearls and their enduring tradition. Through a carefully curated selection of thirty outstanding pieces from esteemed private and heritage collections, alongside previously unseen projects and archival materials, visitors can explore the creativity and expertise developed around the world’s oldest jewel and delve into the science of pearls.
In a church on the Princes’ Islands of Istanbul, a masterpiece and Byzantine treasure awaited discovery. This unique bilateral post-Byzantine icon of Panagia Eleousa held a peculiar feature: on its reverse side, there was another painted icon from the 14th century, which had remained “hidden” for over a hundred years inside a heavy metal box, kept in the Church of Panagia Eleousa on Büyükada/Pringipos. This magnificent, rare, and unique artifact, often regarded as the Byzantine Mona Lisa, has endured through the centuries, conveying numerous historical, social, and artistic messages. With the expertise of a conservator, who tends to it as an art doctor, it has been safeguarded for future generations. Currently, this masterpiece is housed at the Church of Panagia Eleousa in Büyükada/Pringipos, Istanbul.
While the popular knowledge about the Fabergé is focused on the Imperial Easter Eggs, commissioned by the Russia Royal family and other famous patrons, the Igor Carl Fabergé Foundation decided to offer a different approach by presenting “New Finds” and little known items as a point of departure for this exhibition. By presenting more than 100 pieces from private collections, the Igor Carl Fabergé Foundation is offering a glimpse into the richness and versatility of the Fabergé workshops.
Many collected rarities have not been previously shown in Switzerland or Europe at large and some are being presented for the first time!
PIGUET HISTORICAL AUCTION – Total Estimate: 3-4 Million CHF
The World Swiss Foundation – over 500 lots.
The Minkoff Collection – over 300 lots.
Rare oil painting by Ferdinand Hodler.
Bronze by Rembrandt Bugatti from Alain Delon’s collection.
Many exceptional historical treasures are listed at auction for the First Time!
20 – 21 September, 2022 | Geneva, Switzerland
