In a recent announcement, Christie’s proudly introduced the world to the magnificent finale of the Ann & Gordon Getty Collection: Wheatland.
After the resounding success of the October 2022 landmark sales and the June 2023 Temple of Wings exhibition, this October marks the unveiling of a truly extraordinary event. Christie’s is set to reveal the treasures within Ann Getty’s cherished childhood home, Wheatland. The grand spectacle will unfold through a live auction in New York, scheduled for October 18 and 19, complemented by an online sale running until October 20.
Wheatland: A Journey Back to Nature
Jonathan Rendell, the esteemed Deputy Chairman of Christie’s Americas, couldn’t contain his enthusiasm as he shared his thoughts on this momentous occasion. He expressed, “Ann Getty’s impeccable taste and her ability to capture the essence of beauty is best exemplified in the Wheatland estate. Here, she masterfully blended history, art, and nature, weaving them together into an exquisite tapestry of timeless elegance. This final chapter in the series of historic sales stands as a testament to the Getty’s unwavering commitment to impeccable standards and exceptional quality, spanning across a multitude of categories.”
Nestled on the outskirts of a quaint agricultural town in Northern California, Wheatland, once a humble farm adorned with walnut and peach orchards now stands as a testament to Ann Gilbert Getty’s romantic vision. Rather than opting for mere convenience, she transformed her childhood home into an English country house that embodied her dreams. True to tradition, Wheatland seamlessly integrates with its idyllic rural surroundings, as if it had naturally evolved over centuries.
A Glimpse Into Wheatland’s Splendors
Wheatland offers visitors an intimate and intentionally informal experience, with meticulously crafted interiors that pay homage to Ann Getty’s Dutch heritage. The gardens and orchards are vividly represented in the form of exquisite Dutch Old Master still lifes, painted by renowned artists such as Balthasar van der Ast and Nicolaes van Veerendael. These works of art are accompanied by an array of Delft fruit, showcasing Getty’s meticulous eye for detail. The collection also boasts remarkable English furniture and decorative arts, featuring pieces by iconic craftsmen such as Chippendale, Langlois, Ince and Mayhew, and Matthew Boulton.
In addition to celebrating the artistic legacy of the Getty family, the Wheatland collection serves a noble purpose. The proceeds from this exceptional event will be directed towards selected arts and science organizations, thoughtfully chosen by Ann and Gordon Getty. This philanthropic gesture underscores their enduring commitment to supporting and nourishing the very roots of culture and knowledge.
As the Wheatland Collection prepares to take centre stage in the world of art and culture, it promises to be a beacon of elegance, history, and philanthropy. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this remarkable journey when it unfolds at Christie’s live auction in New York this October. It is a celebration of art, history, and the enduring legacy of the Gettys.
Images: Christie’s
