Bonhams & Butterfields was honored to present The JZ Knight Collection on September 27, 2009. Amassed over a decade, the Collection featured eclectic and unique examples of period furniture, decorative arts, carpets and paintings from the 17th through 20th centuries with a particular focus on European and American elegance.
Each item offered during the 500-lot sale was personally selected by Knight to reflect her passion for rare and unique items. Featured works from the auction included a discerning selection of 20th Century design as well as a diverse array of European furnishings, decorative arts, carpets and paintings. The Los Angeles sale brought over $1-million dollars and attracted an array of celebrity clientele.
“Bonhams & Butterfields was pleased to offer the Collection of JZ Knight. Knight’s passion for beauty and quality were represented throughout the offering, in all facets of the auction. Strength was seen in the market for 20th Century works and European paintings as well as Continental decorative arts,” said Andrew Jones, Los Angeles Director of European Furniture and Decorative Arts at Bonhams & Butterfields.
“I have enjoyed a passion for collecting the works of geniuses. I connect with the artist, the craftsman, or painter. This Collection represented a life long passion of mine. Each piece featured in the September auction had its own story and exquisite history — I cherished them all. After years of requests to part with my Collection, I have agreed to share it with those who have a keen insight into the beauty and genius of each piece.”
– JZ Knight speaking about he collection
According to Jones, “Robust bidding was seen in 20th Century section of the auction. The highly sought after works represented a romantic vision of the period with emphasis on Belle Epoch and Art Nouveau periods.”