LONDON — The online auction of a trove of letters, photos and other items that Pattie Boyd, who was at the heart of the Swinging 60s, concluded Friday — and it’s safe to say that it really surpassed all expectations.
Christie’s, the world-renowned auction house, said its online sale of The Pattie Boyd Collection sold for around 2.82 million pounds ($3.6 million), or more than seven times the pre-sale high estimate of around 380,000 pounds.
The collection, which went on public display at Christie’s London headquarters last Friday, provided a glimpse into the heart of the 1960s and 70s counterculture.
The 111 lots up for sale included affectionate letters from both her iconic rock icon husbands George Harrison and Eric Clapton, alongside clothing, jewelry, drawings and photographs — some of Boyd, and some by her.
“I am completely blown away by the enthusiasm of international bidders for these special treasures that I have always loved,” Boyd said. “I am so happy that new hearts will now enjoy them, as they enter into their next ‘chapters.’ I am lucky that my life today continues to bring me joy and different adventures — I would encourage people to follow their passions and live their lives with gusto!”
Boyd, 79, is famous as a musicians’ muse, inspiration for The Beatles’ song “Something,” composed for her by Harrison, as well as for Clapton’s scorching “Layla” and sweet “Wonderful Tonight.”
The most astonishing individual sale was the original artwork chosen by Clapton for the cover of the Derek and The Dominos 1970 album “Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs,” which sold for just under 2 million pounds ($2.5 million), 33 times the pre-sale high estimate.
Adrian Hume-Sayer, a director at Christie’s London, said the “outstanding results of this landmark auction are a real testament to Pattie Boyd, model, photographer, muse and icon.”
Pattie Boyd, the former wife of music legends George Harrison and Eric Clapton, recently held an auction of her personal belongings that far exceeded expectations. The auction, held at Bonhams in London, brought in an impressive $3.6 million in total sales, showcasing the enduring appeal of Boyd’s iconic style and connection to some of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
Boyd’s collection included a wide range of items, from clothing and jewelry to photographs and memorabilia from her time with Harrison and Clapton. One of the most highly anticipated items was a guitar once owned by Clapton, which sold for an impressive $280,000. Other notable items included a pair of diamond and sapphire earrings gifted to Boyd by Harrison, which sold for $40,000, and a collection of vintage clothing worn by Boyd during her time as a model in the 1960s.
The success of the auction can be attributed to Boyd’s status as a fashion icon and her close ties to two of the most beloved musicians in rock history. Fans and collectors alike were eager to own a piece of Boyd’s history, whether it be a piece of jewelry worn by Harrison or a photograph capturing a moment from her glamorous past.
In addition to the financial success of the auction, Boyd expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to share her personal treasures with fans and collectors. She stated, “It’s been an incredible journey rediscovering these items from my past and seeing them find new homes with people who appreciate their significance. I’m thrilled with the results of the auction and grateful for the opportunity to share these pieces of my history with the world.”
Overall, the Pattie Boyd auction was a resounding success, showcasing the enduring appeal of Boyd’s connection to music history and her iconic sense of style. With $3.6 million in total sales, it’s clear that Boyd’s influence continues to resonate with fans and collectors alike, solidifying her status as a true legend in the world of music and fashion.
