Featuring over 300 intriguing works offering a fascinating insight into their shared personal and professional journeys, the full auction content of The World of Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman was recently unveiled by Sotheby’s.
The unique and diverse collection of memorabilia from the world of film and entertainment, exquisite watches and jewellery, automobile and racing paraphernalia, splendid fine art, intriguing books and much more, represents the colourful tapestry of their 50-year shared life.
(Photo by Darlene Hammond/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
A Window into the Dynamic World of the Iconic Hollywood Power Couple
Set to be held in New York in June, the live and online auctions will present a remarkable opportunity for enthusiasts and admirers alike to experience the captivating world of legendary actors and committed philanthropists. The items on offer, mainly drawn from their home in Connecticut, are a testament to the couple’s shared passions and interests, from film memorabilia to cherished Rolex wristwatches.
These auctions, collectively, portray an insightful picture of their dual existence: the glamorous life of Hollywood and their secluded personal life, filled with cherished individuals, personal mementoes, and causes close to their hearts.
A Trio of Auctions Showcasing a Diverse Collection
The Woodward-Newman collection will be segmented into three auctions:
- “Important Watches” (9 June), showcasing timepieces frequently adorned by the couple.
- “A Life and Legacy” (31 May – 12 June), featuring memorabilia and art from their careers and personal life.
- “High Speed” (31 May – 13 June), a homage to Paul’s renowned legacy in car racing.
In addition, Sotheby’s Buy Now marketplace will present movie posters and other artefacts from the collection.
Invitation to the Exhibition and Online Auctions
An exhibition of these items, open to the public, will take place from 1 – 11 June at Sotheby’s New York galleries. This event coincides with Sotheby’s Luxury Week, showcasing exhibitions of jewellery, watches, luxury handbags & accessories, and more.
A Peek into the Idyllic Connecticut Home of Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman
The couple’s Westport home embodies the shared journey they embarked on with their family, rich with love, humour, and a sense of adventure. The Life & Legacy sale will feature a curated selection of the memorabilia, furniture, fine art, and decor that the Newman family amassed and treasured for decades.
Film and Entertainment Memorabilia
2. Prop Shackles Used in the Production of Cool Hand Luke ($3,000 – 5,000)
3. Bound Presentation Book inscribed by Martin Scorsese, and the Revised Script for The Color of Money ($3,000 – 5,000)
An impressive collection of film & entertainment memorabilia, associated with Joanne and Paul’s careers in film and television, awaits prospective buyers. This includes iconic scripts, award certificates, movie props, and wardrobe from renowned films such as Rachel, Rachel, The Hustler, and The Color of Money.
English and Continental Furniture, Decor, and Fine Art
The collection also features an assortment of American and English furniture, fine decorative art from their residences, and a bespoke Brunswick-Balke-Collender Co. oak billiard table from the couple’s New York City Apartment, signifying their zest for travel, cosmopolitan lifestyle, and their homely comfort.
Clothing, Personal Accessories, and a Nod to Their Playful Relationship
Included in the collection is a selection of clothing and personal accessories, notably items from their 1958 wedding ceremony, and a cream-painted cast-brass and iron bedframe from the couple’s infamous ‘F*ck Hut’, illustrating their affection, playfulness, and desire.
2. Bottle of Château Lafite Rothschild, 1958 ($500 – 700)
3. Commemorative Needlepoint for Joanne and Paul’s wedding ($1,000 – 1,500)
4. Joanne’s Bespoke Wedding Luggage set ($1,500 – 2,000)
Political Memorabilia
As longstanding supporters of the Democratic party, Joanne and Paul’s collection also boasts political memorabilia such as signed letters, awards, and photographs from political figures.
From exploring their star-studded Hollywood life to stepping into their tranquil personal world, the upcoming Sotheby’s auction offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to intimately know and appreciate the legendary Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman.