Christie’s will present The Jewelry Collection of Anne H. Bass, to be offered as part of Magnificent Jewels auction, scheduled to be held live at Christie’s Rockefeller Center on June 17, 2025.
During her lifetime, Anne Hendricks Bass was celebrated not only for her philanthropic spirit and enduring commitment to the arts, but also for her refined taste, timeless elegance, and exceptional eye for beauty.
Comprising 26 exquisite jewels, this collection was assembled with discernment and passion over decades, and comes from Mrs. Bass’s personal collection.
It represents one of the most impeccably curated private jewellery collections to appear on the market. The sale features the best examples of famed houses such as Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari, Cartier and JAR.
A consistent theme throughout the collection is that each jewel stands as a best-in-class example, reflecting the impeccable taste and singular personal style of Mrs. Bass. Among the highlights are an important pair of Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Pendant Earrings ($1,200,000-$1,800,000). The sale also features eleven jewels by JAR – led by a JAR Sapphire, Emerald and Diamond Necklace ($200,000-$300,000)
Claibourne Poindexter, Senior Specialist Jewelry Department, Christie’s New York, says: “The jewellery collection of Anne H. Bass is a testament to impeccable taste and refinement. Each piece is a superlative example—thoughtfully selected and deeply personal.
“From an important pair of white diamond pendant earrings by Van Cleef & Arpels to a bold, carved ruby and emerald collar by David Webb, the collection reflects a woman of extraordinary style and discernment. Most notably, it features one of the finest private assemblages of jewels by the legendary Joel Arthur Rosenthal, known as JAR. Many of these exceptional works are featured in the landmark 2002 publication JAR Volume I, making this sale a rare opportunity to acquire creations of profound beauty and historical importance.”
Running alongside the Magnificent Jewels sale is Anne H. Bass: The New York Interiors and Jewelry, which includes further jewellery alongside the furniture and decorative arts from Anne Bass’s iconic Mark Hampton designed New York apartment.