Christie’s next auction could be the answer to today’s hunger for beauty.
On February 15, the luxury auctioneer will open bidding for the “Andre Leon Talley Collection” in New York. The 68-piece sale will offer a selection of the late fashion editor’s personal items, from haute-couture clothing to handbags, jewellery, fine art, books and home decor. Defined by coveted pieces from Hermes, Versace, Louis Vuitton and Bottega Veneta, the collection is glamorous and high-flying, just like the man who put it together. The range also reflects Talley’s decades-long relationship with fashion icons Karl Lagerfeld, Diane von Furstenberg, Ralph Rucci, Tom Ford, Diana Vreeland and Anna Wintour.
Talley’s collection of designer sunglasses and Baccarat candlesticks are offered at Christie’s.
Christie’s
With a career spanning more than 40 years in the fashion industry, the charismatic editor has acquired more than one rare fashion find that could sell well above asking price. The most expensive object offered at Christie’s auction is a painting by Andy Warhol Candy box (1928-1987), is estimated to sell for between $150,000 and $200,000. A host of limited-edition Louis Vuitton handbags and suitcases personalized with his “ALT” monogram are also on offer, alongside Versace silk scarves, Ralph Rucci kaftans and Chanel amethyst jewellery. Portrait of Talley in Alice Springs with inscription titled Villa Vigie (1989), rounds out the offering and could sell for up to $3,000.
Talley is internationally known for his rare status in the fashion industry. Before his death in January 2022, the burly journalist was raised by his grandmother during the Jim Crow era in Durham, North Carolina. He graduated from North Carolina State University with a degree in French literature in 1970, and shortly thereafter began graduate studies at Brown University in Rhode Island. In 1983, Talley began working at American Vogue and was named creative director of the publication in 1988. Talley was the first black man to hold the latter title, cementing him as a legend and icon in the fashion industry.
Alice Springs Villa Vigie (1989) portrait of the editor, with Versace silk scarves and cuffs.
Christie’s
“André Leon Talley’s fashion sensibility was unique and timeless,” Elizabeth Seigel, Christie’s head of private and cult, said in a statement. “He was categorically chic, and the collection he amassed throughout his life was unlike any other. We are extremely delighted to curate this collection of items from his homes, a selection that showcases Talley’s undying love of all things beautiful.”
Executor of Talley’s estate, Alexis Thomas, said: “I am delighted to partner with Christie’s in the sale of the collection of my dear friend André Leon Talley. André was an intellectual with a lifelong commitment to social justice and a pioneering vision for black creators and luminaries. André saw his collection of beautiful objects, steeped in fashion history, as his legacy and is honored to ensure that its sale will benefit Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem and Mount Sinai Church in Durham.”
Talley attends the 2006 Abyssinian Baptist Church police shooting protest.
Courtesy of Alexis E. Thomas
Christie’s will work closely with the editor’s estate not only to ensure that both churches receive proceeds from the sale, but also to honor his legacy by creating opportunities for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The Andre Leon Talley Collection will receive bids during a live sale at Christie’s New York on February 15th and in two online sales on February 16th and 17th. Various styles from the upcoming auction will go on tour from January 18th to January 31st. in Palm Beach. You can also view other selected pieces on display in Paris from January 23rd to 26th.