As I have previously discussed, Rachel Lambert “Bunny” Mellon, who has recently passed, was an heiress to the renowned Mellon family. Mellon, who lived to 103, led a reclusive life dedicated to compiling an extensive collection of fine art. The compilation, previously unseen by the public, is scheduled for auction by Southeby’s on November 10th. Mellon did not rely on popularity or investment, but rather personal preference, in the acquisition of her collection. With the works of Pissarro, van Gogh, and an assortment of antique porcelains among her belongings, Southeby’s expects the sale of her catalogue to fetch over $100 million. Southeby’s will dedicate 10 floors and nine days to the auction, and hopes the event will help it recuperate from its slow Spring and recent boardroom infighting.
See Carol Vogel, Bunny Mellon’s Keen Eye is a Boon to Sotheby’s, The New York Times, Sept. 11, 2014.
Special thanks to Joel Dobris (Professor of Law, UC Davis School of Law) for bringing this article to my attention.
