Latest news with #Sothebys
Washington Post
a day ago
- Business
- Washington Post
The 13th Amendment: Sold for $12 million
NEW YORK — A crowd, most of them employees with ID badges around their necks, gathered in the back of the room of Sotheby's for the last two items of Thursday's morning auction. They weren't there to see icy jewels or buzzy art being sold to the cocktail crowd. This was history. Important history. 'The 13th Amendment,' the auctioneer announced. 'Signed by Abraham Lincoln and the majority of senators and congressmen who supported this landmark legislation abolishing slavery and involuntary servitude within the United States.' The bidding opened at $8 million. It was preceded by bidding on a copy of the Emancipation Proclamation, also signed by Lincoln. This was a highlight of Book Week at Sotheby's. Nerd paradise. It's the kind of thing that draws a small crowd of brainy lookie-loos with canvas totes and book dealers in tweed and seersucker to see and maybe bid on first edition Shakespeares, Galileos, Cervantes, Darwin and Adam Smith. And on Americana. This wasn't a swank auction with mysterious bidders, champagne and women in fabulous hats. Most of the bidding happened online or over the phones, with staff on risers flanking the auctioneer's podium. The auction was divided into two parts. Those participating in person raised paddles to place their bids. The only paddle that kept going up was #939, held by a man in a buzz cut, black sneakers, work-from-home clothes and a Nike Air backpack. He dropped around $800,000. 'We got the Darwin, Josephus, Audubon aaaand the Galileo,' said Callum Hill, 27, a cataloger for Peter Harrington, antiquarian book sellers from London. Landmark moments in human history were dispatched across the globe to anonymous sellers. 'The first of two Shakespeare folios,' the auctioneer announced. 'We have $95,000.' 'Bidder on the phone with $100,000.' 'Sold.' On to Portugal in 1519: Vasco da Gama's citation from the King of Portugal for his discoveries complete with a royal wax seal. The bidding went up to $120,000. 'Anything further from online? Or the phones? Otherwise, fair warning. $120,000,' the auctioneer said. 'Sold.' Finally, the premium items came up: Lots 26 and 27. There was James Monroe's letter authorizing the $2 million down payment on the Louisiana Purchase. Previously unknown to Monroe scholars, the four-page letter written in August 1803 was a hedge against Napoleon reneging on the deal. It was a basically handshake deal until Congress moved to ratify it. 'It ought not to be suspected that we are trifling with the Go[vernmen]t of France, or gaining time by an idle correspondence,' Monroe wrote, offering up all the cash that was at his disposal while he was posted in London. The letter sold for $127,000. Also up was the 1774 document establishing the Continental Association, which called for a trade ban between America and Great Britain. Some scholars argue that the Articles of Association document, an agreement among all the colonies to refuse trade relations with England, is the original founding document, merely a precursor to the Declaration of Independence. 'For many Americans the decision to accept the recommendations of Congress and endorse the Continental Association proved to be the point of no return,' historian David Ammerman wrote in his 1974 book, 'In the common cause: American response to the Coercive acts of 1774.' The browned broadside with fold marks is 'one of the most important documents of American colonial history,' Ammerman said. It sold for just over $1 million. Sotheby's is protecting the identity of the buyers who dropped millions on those documents, which are seismically important to United States history. Sotheby's had an unusual offering — both the signed Emancipation Proclamation and the resulting 13th Amendment, signed by Congress on Jan. 31, 1865. 'I never in my life, felt more certain that I was doing right than I do in signing this paper,' Lincoln said after signing the Emancipation Proclamation into law on Jan. 1, 1863. The proclamation that Sotheby's auctioned on Thursday was part of a Civil War fundraiser. One of Lincoln's favorite charities in D.C. was the United States Sanitary Commission, established in June 1861 to assist sick and wounded Union soldiers and their dependent families. It ran on contributions, and Lincoln often donated an autograph to sell at one of their fundraising fairs. For the 1864 Grand Fair, Lincoln signed dozens of the proclamations, and they sold for $10 each, according to Sotheby's. 'One of 27 surviving copies,' the auctioneer said. Eighteen of them are in collections at institutions. The auction opened at $2 million, then quickly went to to $3 million. The rivals were a mystery bidder and a woman in a burgundy dress with a paddle. Then it went to $3.5 million. 'A bidder at 3.6. And the room bidder is out,' the auctioneer said. The 13th Amendment came up. Bidding opened at $8 million. Back and forth, until it got to $12 million. 'It's $12 million on the phone,' the auctioneer said. 'Anyone watching online?' 'Here in the room?' 'It's on the phone. And will sell,' he said, scanning the room one last time. No movement. No paddles. 'At $12 million.' Polite applause. 'This one was special,' a Sotheby's employee said as she left. Lincoln signed an unknown number of commemorative copies of the Emancipation Proclamation. Historians know of 15 bearing Lincoln's signature, Sotheby's said, and more than a dozen additional exist that are signed by members of Congress, but not Lincoln. There is an empty space for his signature. He never lived to see it ratified.
Telegraph
2 days ago
- Business
- Telegraph
Village London: Wimbledon
Anyone for tennis? The Wimbledon Championships delight millions of spectators around the world. But outside Centre Court, is Wimbledon Village a place to put down roots? In lockdown, there was a rush to space, and Wimbledon certainly ticked the boxes. 'The market here has experienced some changes over the last five years, although it largely remains resilient due to lack of supply,' says James Morrison, senior director of sales at UK Sotheby's International Realty. 'The demand for larger homes with outdoor space led to an 8-10% increase in property prices during the post-pandemic period, although economic pressures led to a slight dip in 2023-24.' Morrison adds that with recent reductions in the Bank of England base rate, 'there are encouraging signs for the market, with many purchasers looking to secure the right opportunity.' John Keeble, head of Hamptons Wimbledon office agrees. 'What truly sets Wimbledon apart is its remarkable resilience during market fluctuations. Wimbledon maintains its appeal thanks to a perfect blend of heritage, international appeal, and leafy surroundings. It's not just a place to live – it's a lifestyle choice that rewards residents and investors alike.' In Hamptons' lettings office, Fenella Hunt reports a 'very robust start to the year'. 'Wimbledon is extremely popular with corporate tenants and families. We see demand peak in the summer months and early autumn.' Hamptons has a flourishing tennis lets offering for the Wimbledon Grand Slam tournament, letting to prestigious companies as well as players. 'Locals offer their own homes to rent for 2-8 weeks to provide a comfortable home-from-home for those preparing for and working at the tournament,' says Hunt. Properties that typically let for £4,000 per month can achieve the same figure per week during Wimbledon Fortnight, says Warren Appleton, head of sales at John D Wood & Co in Wimbledon. 'Among the most sought-after streets are Murray Road, Belvedere Grove, Belvedere Avenue, Lancaster Road, and Marryat Road – each offering a sense of community and charm.' A day out 9AM: Saddle up While the area is known for its tennis ties, Wimbledon Village Stables on the High Street is available to members and non-members, below. Whether wanting to volunteer with equine friends or join an intensive riding course, the stables make the most of its picturesque surroundings, riding on Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park. 11AM: Serve SW19 style Home to a number of independent boutiques, the High Street is full of local favourites. Phoenix Style is where luxury meets sustainability, with a sister store in Cobham. Designer brands include Chanel, Alexander McQueen and Burberry. Explore chic clothing and accessories that can add a flourish to any Wimbledon look. 1PM: Fork in the road In the heart of the village is the Ivy Café Wimbledon, known for elegant British flair. For traditional pub dining, the Rose & Crown along the High Street and the Hand in Hand on Crooked Billet provide hearty options. 3PM: Court history Open daily with the exception of during the tournament, at the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, visitors can get up close to the historic trophies lifted by champions. See how player fashion has evolved, and how the Championships have changed. Within the museum, read the pages of Arthur Ashe's diary and sit on the bench used by Grand Slam legend Roger Federer in the Gentlemen's Dressing Room. 5PM: Summer strolling Find more than 1,000 acres of tranquillity at Wimbledon Common. Home to nine ponds, the Common is home to a wide diversity of animals. While you may not spot Wombles, animals such as badgers, moles and grey squirrels have all been spotted over the years on the Common. The Windmill Museum built by Roehampton carpenter Charles March, is open only on specific weekends, above. If you're feeling peckish, stop by the family-run Windmill Tearooms for a snack. Ask a local 'Wimbledon Village's proximity to the hub of the town centre and the serenity of Wimbledon Common gives it a unique position on the border between town and country. At the heart of the Village lies a bustling high street with excellent shops, pubs – particularly the Rose & Crown, which is ideal for meeting friends in the garden – bakeries and cafés, lining what becomes a gateway to one of the world's most prestigious tennis events. Guests will notice the beautifully detailed window displays of the village shops during The Championships. These often comprise elements synonymous with a day spent at the tennis, including our delicious strawberries and cream. The magic is very much on display and the celebration of both tennis and the Village's thriving community spirit is one of my favourite aspects of the two weeks of the Championships.' Food & Drink These dining recommendations offer a winning combination in the heart of Wimbledon. Fire Stables, 27-29 Church Road Promising 'soul-hugging' food, find a modern British menu that uses seasonal flavours from the rolling countryside of the UK and coastlines. Find creativity in dishes such as truffled cauliflower bites with plum ketchup and herb-roasted chalk stream trout supreme. Punters can also look forward to a menu of craft beers and fine wines. Giggling Squid, 26 High Street Serving 'Thai food with personality', the Giggling Squid was founded by husband-and-wife team Andy and Pranee, with the shared goal of bringing the vibrancy of Thai cuisine to the UK. Initially starting out in a fisherman's cottage (now restaurant) in Brighton, before opening eateries across the country, Giggling Squid is known for delivering bold flavours, no matter the diet. The Fox & Grapes, 9 Camp Road Situated on the edge of Wimbledon Common, Fox & Grapes is a sanctuary for food, drink and sleep, doubling up as a boutique hotel. A past recipient of OpenTable's Diners' Choice and Bib Gourmand titles among other accolades, the award-winning destination is currently under the helm of owner Paul Merrett. The Black Lamb, 67 High Street Delivering farm to fork British dishes, The Black Lamb is owned by the Gladwin Brothers, who are also the brains behind Rabbit in Chelsea. English wines come from the family vineyard in Nutbourne. In celebration of Wimbledon, the restaurant offers an indulgent Wimbledon set menu with signature dessert Wobbles Of Wimbledon made with Sussex strawberries and cream jelly. The Ivy Cafe, 75 High Street Whether raising a glass to your favourite tennis player or simply catching up with friends and family, find modern British cuisine and cafe-style classics for elegant dining. If you know a loved one graduating this year, celebrate them in style with the new 'Class of 2025' menu and Nyetimber's flagship Classic Cuvée Multi Vintage. Schools Wimbledon Common Preparatory School, also known as 'Squirrels', brings a balanced curriculum for boys aged 4 to 7, who are encouraged from the start to partake in extracurriculars which include tennis, sewing and cricket. The Study Prep in the heart of the Village has taught girls between the ages of 4 to 11 to grow and flourish since 1893. On Lake Road, co-ed Bishop Gilpin CofE Primary School consistently achieves high results. Catholic independent and non-selective Donhead Preparatory on Edge Hill, which teaches co-ed between 3 to 11 following the Jesuit Pupil Profile, counts actor Tom Holland as alumni. Neighbouring voluntary-aided Wimbledon College has received a Good rating from OFSTED and teaches boys aged 11 to 18 to be hopeful and grateful. Opened in 1880, all-through Wimbledon High School on Mansel Road is known for its academic vigour, nurturing grounded pupils. Meanwhile, King's College Wimbledon teaches boys from 7 to 18, with a co-ed sixth form. On the Market From spacious newer-build and period family homes to luxury rentals, the property market here is buoyant. Ask an agent 'Wimbledon Village offers a quality of life more akin to the country than London, with a rare blend of refined charm and city connections. Christopher Burton Head of Wimbledon Sales at Knight Frank At its heart is a vibrant high street, all set against a backdrop of the stables and handsome period architecture. Wimbledon Common, Wimbledon Park, The Wimbledon Club, various golf courses, and of course, the All England Lawn Tennis Club, add to its global appeal. Popular pockets like the Southfields Grid and South Park Gardens see houses trade between £1m-£2m, while roads close by to Wimbledon Park like Vineyard Hill Road and Home Park Road are performing particularly well this year, with pricing between £2m to £5m. Larger houses around the Village and Common can go for from £4m to £20m and increasingly sell off-market away from the public eye, which is why it's vital to register with us.' The London Magazine celebrates prime property and luxury lifestyle in the world's greatest city. Sign up to the newsletter
CTV News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Napoleon collection sells at auction for US$10 million
A Napoleon hat is on display in an exhibition of Napoleon's belongings created by French designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac at the Sotheby's auction house in Paris Thursday, June 19, 2025 in Paris. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena) Paris, France -- A massive trove of artwork and curios linked to Napoleon Bonaparte, including one of his iconic bicorne hats, has sold for more than US$10 million in Paris, an auction house said. Sotheby's said it had originally estimated the more than 110 items of Napoleonic memorabilia that it sold on Wednesday at around $7 million. Famous paintings of the 19th-century French emperor, gilded imperial furniture and a copy of the marriage certificate between Napoleon and his wife Josephine were among the items up for auction. Relics linked to Napoleon regularly come up for sale at auction in France in a flourishing trade marked by intense interest from collectors. The vast collection also included Napoleon's first will written while in exile on the Atlantic island of Saint Helena, and the sword and staff used for his coronation at Paris' famed Notre Dame Cathedral in 1804. Napoleon was exiled to Saint Helena in 1815 after his defeat by the British at the Battle of Waterloo. He died there six years later. French collector Pierre-Jean Chalencon, a former star of a French antiques television show who dubs himself 'Napoleon's press officer,' assembled the collection over four decades. Born in a Parisian suburb, Chalencon started his collection at the age of 13 and accumulated more than 1,000 objects, including a coronation ring and a piece of the emperor's coffin. At a different Parisian auction in late May, one of Napoleon's sabres sold for 4.6 million euros, coming close to a new record price for a Napoleonic artifact.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Ferris Bueller's Day Off' Sweater Vest Worn by Matthew Broderick Sells for $279,400 at Sotheby's New York Auction
The famous sweater vest worn by Matthew Broderick in the 1986 John Hughes teen comedy 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' sold at auction on Tuesday for $279,400 via Sotheby's in New York City. The sweater vest attracted 11 bids. Broderick wears the memorable photomatched vest during the 'Twist and Shout' sequence of the '80s film. 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' follows the titular character on an epic day playing hooky in Chicago at the end of the school year. More from WWD EXCLUSIVE: Sotheby's Taps Jean-Charles de Castelbajac to Showcase Napoleonic Treasures Julien's Auctions to Offer Key Menswear Pieces From Celebrities, Designers Diamonds, Dynasties and Drama: Marie Antoinette's Smuggled Pink Diamond Resurfaces, Heads to Christie's Auction 'Few items in film history carry the instant recognition and cultural weight of Ferris Bueller's sweater vest. It's more than just a costume — it's a piece of 1980s Americana that embodies a character, a decade, and a universal sense of youthful rebellion,' Ralph DeLuca, Sotheby's vice chairman, popular culture, said in a statement. 'As Sotheby's launches its newly dedicated Popular Culture department, offering this vest at auction marks a fitting start — an item that reflects the spirit of a beloved film and connects with audiences across generations.' 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' marked Oscar-nominated American costume designer Marilyn Vance's fourth collaboration with director John Hughes, the filmmaker behind such teen classics as 'The Breakfast Club' and 'Sixteen Candles.' Prior to working on 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off,' Vance collaborated with Hughes on his films 'The Breakfast Club' and 'Pretty in Pink,' the latter of which Hughes wrote but did not direct. According to Sotheby's, the sweater vest was one of Vance's initial ideas for creating the costumes for the titular character. Vance found the camel and chocolate brown sweater with its striking geometric pattern reminiscent of leopard print at Marshall Field's, according to Sotheby's. She cut the sleeves off to give the piece its memorable look. The 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' sweater vest sale coincides with the debut of Sotheby's newly dedicated Popular Culture department, led by DeLuca. Moving forward, Sotheby's will host dedicated multi-auction sales events twice a year — in October and April — for items spanning film, TV, music and comics. View Gallery Launch Gallery: Iconic Film Costumes: 'The Wizard of Oz,' 'Clueless,' 'Barbie' and More [PHOTOS] Best of WWD Stores Closing in the U.S. in 2025: Joann, Kohl's, JCPenney and More Companies Facing Financial Challenges The History Behind the World's Most Expensive Hats: From Princess Beatrice's Royal Wedding Headpiece to the $2.7 Million Chapeau D'Amour and More Every Winner in Miss World History: Opal Suchata Chuangsri, Priyanka Chopra and More
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
A.I. Is Driving a Luxury Housing Boom in San Francisco
San Francisco's luxury real-estate market went from ghost town to gold rush. After a period of post-pandemic urban decline, the city is now experiencing a renaissance at the highest echelons of the housing market, largely credited to the explosive success of artificial intelligence. More from Robb Report Fashion Designer Lela Rose Puts Her Whimsical N.Y.C. Triplex on the Market for $10.8 Million Bill Koch's Storied Cape Cod Compound Once Hosted JFK. Now It Can Be Yours for $24 Million. Legendary Singing Cowboy Roy Rogers's Former L.A. Home Can Be Yours for $7.2 Million Sotheby's International Realty 2025 Mid-Year Luxury Outlook report found that more homes sold above $20 million in San Francisco than in any other year on record. This resurgence, experts say, is being driven by the meteoric rise of A.I. and the flood of new wealth it created among founders or engineers eager to set down roots near the industry's hub. 'The thought is that the A.I. space is going to be the next major source of wealth creation in the global economy,' Bradley Nelson, Sotheby's chief marketing officer, told Bloomberg. 'San Francisco became a magnetic location really quickly because if an entrepreneur or a tech investor was saying, 'OK, I want to make a bet in A.I,.' they were deciding they needed to do it in San Francisco and in the Bay Area for access to the labor pool with that technical expertise.' The City by the Bay is home to the headquarters of hugely influential companies like OpenAI, creator of ChatGPT, as well as countless startups and research labs. Among the most talked-about real estate deals is a reported $70 million purchase by Laurene Powell Jobs on San Francisco's fabled Billionaire's Row. Nelson also found that buyers at the ultra-high end aren't just acquiring $20 million estates, but pouring millions more into multiyear, custom renovations, setting clear intentions to take up residence in the city. He told Bloomberg that 'the luxury real estate market in 2025 has just stepped out as the perennial safe haven.' He credited much of San Francisco's comeback to recently elected Mayor Daniel Lurie. Other luxury housing markets on the rise include New York City, where properties priced at $10 million and above were up 115%, according to Sotheby's International Realty. The report also noted an emerging luxury market in Deer Valley, Utah, where a state record of 15 sales above $15 million have been made. Best of Robb Report The 10 Priciest Neighborhoods in America (And How They Got to Be That Way) In Pictures: Most Expensive Properties Click here to read the full article. Sign in to access your portfolio
