Auction house, Christie’s New York, has announced the upcoming landmark sale of jewels from the collection of Anne Eisenhower.
A collector and philanthropist, an icon of sophistication and refinement, as well as a member of one of the most pre-eminent American families, Eisenhower was known for her classic aesthetic, designing interiors with whimsical touches that reflected her personality.
The Magnificent Jewels of Anne Eisenhower collection, offered by Christie’s during Luxury Week, will present an outstanding assembly of pieces from some of the most important Houses, demonstrating Eisenhower’s sophistication and appreciation for both the allure and art of jewellery design.
As a tribute to the interior designer, Christie’s will launch a global tour of The Magnificent Jewels of Anne Eisenhower – beginning in Los Angeles, before continuing on to Paris, Geneva and Hong Kong.
The tour will culminate in New York on 7 June, where the collection will be auctioned live and online during Christie’s Luxury Week.
The star of the collection is the iconic Jarretière ruby and diamond bracelet, acquired by actress Marlene Dietrich in 1937 from Van Cleef & Arpels.
It was worn by the actress in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1950 murder mysery film Stage Fright, and was purchased by Eisenhower in 1992.
The bracelet holds an estimate of $2.5m-4.5m (£2.1m-3.7m).
A variety of magnificent jewels are among the additional highlights, including: a rare Art Deco Diamond and Multi-Gem Moonlight Rose Bracelet, by Tiffany & Co; an Art Deco Diamond Bangle Bracelet, by Cartier; and an Important D colour Diamond Ring of 20.54 ct.
Chairman of Christie’s Americas, Marc Porter said: “From Marlene Dietrich to President Dwight D Eisenhower, the Anne Eisenhower Collection traces the history of the last century through a single collector’s brilliant passion for fine jewels.
“Anne Eisenhower had a keen eye for the finest examples of the jeweller’s art, and her collection tells fascinating and interwoven stories of patrons and collectors.
“Christie’s looks forward to sharing the experience of these superb objects as they go on a global tour, culminating at our Rockefeller galleries in June.”
Head of the jewellery department for Christie’s Americas, Daphne Lingon added: “Christie’s is truly honoured to be entrusted with the Magnificent Jewels of Anne Eisenhower, a woman who led an extraordinary life of taste, style and philanthropy, while remaining true to her values.
“From exquisite designs by Cartier, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels to important gemstones, this auction presents a unique opportunity for collectors to obtain a jewel that was thoughtfully acquired over a 40 year period by a true tastemaker.”
The live sale will take place on 7 June 2023, with additional jewels from the collection featured in Christie’s Jewels Online – open for bidding from 30 May to 8 June.
