In a momentous event set to grace Rockefeller Center this autumn, Christie’s recently announced “Rothschild Masterpieces,” a groundbreaking exhibition and sale of art, furniture, and paintings that belong to a branch of one of history’s most renowned collecting families.
Since the 18th century, the Rothschilds have gained worldwide acclaim for their remarkable ability to curate extraordinary masterpieces and adorn their homes with unparalleled style and flair, creating interiors of sheer magnificence. As the adage goes, “When a Rothschild starts a collection, it always ends as a museum.”
Exploring the Legacy: Rothschild Masterpieces Exhibition
The Christie’s series of live and online auctions encompass an array of treasures that span centuries, including:
Italian Renaissance Maiolica: Preserving History and Craftsmanship
The Rothschild Masterpieces collection proudly displays a splendid assortment of Italian Renaissance maiolica. These meticulously crafted ceramics showcase the intricate artistry of the era, bringing to life the spirit of Italy’s cultural renaissance.
Hardstone Boxes: Unveiling Hidden Gems
The collection features hardstone boxes that reveal the mastery of artisans who transformed stones into exquisite containers. Each box tells a unique story of craftsmanship and elegance.
Right: An Hispano-Moresque Earthenware Blue And Lustred Charger
Circa 1435-1460, Valencia, Probably Manises Estimate: $25,000-35,000
Silver and Silver-Gilt Sculptures: Reflecting Opulence
Discover a world of opulence through the magnificent silver and silver-gilt sculptures on display. These works of art exemplify the grandeur and refinement that define the Rothschild legacy.
European Furniture and Tapestries: Timeless Elegance
The Rothschild Masterpieces include a splendid array of European furniture and tapestries that transport you to a bygone era of opulence and sophistication.
Limoges Enamels: A Testament to Artistry
Limoges enamels, known for their exquisite craftsmanship, take their place in this extraordinary collection. Each piece exemplifies the dedication to artistry that defines the Rothschild tradition.
Circa 1762, Blue Interlaced L’s Marks Enclosing Date Letter J To One Tureen And Two Stands, Painters’ Marks C.-l. Méreaud, J.-f. Micaud Estimate: $30,000-50,000
Right: A Pair Of Victorian Silver-mounted Coromandel Menu-holders
Mark Of George Betjemann & Sons, London, 1885 Estimate: $800-1,200
Important Old Master Pictures: Preserving History’s Treasures
The collection proudly presents a selection of Old Master paintings, preserving the legacy of some of history’s most revered artists. Each canvas tells a story that spans generations.
Renaissance Jewellery: Adornments of Elegance
Step into a world of timeless beauty with Renaissance jewellery that graces the Rothschild Masterpieces exhibition. These pieces are not just accessories; they are testaments to the enduring allure of artistry.
Exploring the Auction: Rothschild Masterpieces Evening Sale
The highlight of this remarkable event is the Rothschild Masterpieces evening sale, scheduled for 11th October 2023. This auction promises to encapsulate the quintessential taste that has defined the Rothschild family for generations. Here are some of the treasures awaiting discerning collectors:
Antique and Renaissance Jewellery
Among the highlights are an exquisite first-century AD Roman Sardonyx cameo portrait of the Emperor Claudius and a French Renaissance diamond-set and enamelled gold badge of Saint Michael and the Dragon.
Old Master Paintings
The auction will feature masterpieces like Gerrit Dou’s “A Young Woman Holding a Hare with a Boy at a Window,” a testament to the enduring allure of classic art.
Mark Of Cornelis Jansz Van Der Burch, Delft, 1607 Estimate: $100,000-150,000
Right: A Monumental Ormolu Mounted Hard Stone Cabinet On Stand
Silver Elegance
Admire the Dutch silver-gilt mounted nautilus cup, a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
European Furniture
Experience the grandeur of late Louis XV giltwood and white-painted fauteuils that once adorned the Rothschild homes.
Renaissance Italian Maiolica
Immerse yourself in history with the large Urbino maiolica documentary armorial istoriato charger.
The Legacy Continues: Kunstammer, Le Goût Rothschild, and Online Sale
Following the evening sale, the Rothschild Masterpieces exhibition continues with more captivating events:
The Kunstammer (12th October 2023)
Explore a diverse array of furniture and works of art, including Italian Maiolica, French Enamels, Silver, and Vertu, spanning antiquity to the Baroque.
Le Goût Rothschild (13th October 2023)
Journey through European furniture, ceramics, and works of art, all in the opulent Rothschild style that has left an indelible mark on history.
The Online Sale (3rd-17th October 2023)
This online auction offers a wide-ranging selection of furniture and objects, providing collectors of all levels the opportunity to own a piece of Rothschild elegance, with bidding starting at just $100.
The works showcased in these sales predominantly stem from the keen acquisitions of Baron James de Rothschild (1792-1868), the founder of the French branch of the banking family, his wife Betty (1805-1886), and their son Baron Alphonse (1868-1949). Their discerning eye for art and craftsmanship continues to inspire generations of collectors.
Don’t miss this unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the opulent world of Rothschild Masterpieces, where history, artistry, and elegance converge in an exquisite display of timeless treasures.
Images: Christie’s
