The fifth and final chapter in the Sotheby’s auction series featuring the late fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld. From January 24 to 31, part of the polymath artist’s collection will be on sale, including drawings, musical instruments and clothing.
Creative director of Fendi from 1965, Chanel from 1983 and Chloé in the 1990s; seasoned photographer; collector of art and Apple ipods… Throughout his life, Karl Lagerfeld accumulated exceptional objects, reflecting his eclectic tastes. On his desk were his incredibly fine drawings and sketches, now part of the annals of fashion. In his apartments, designer furniture, both antique and modern. In his closets, luxury garments and accessories characteristic of his style. A final opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of a man who continues to fascinate the public.
Sketches, clothes, furniture…
In all, over 200 lots will be offered by Sotheby’s from January 24 to 31 in this final act of the auction series dedicated to Karl Lagerfeld. As a tribute to his graphic work, Sotheby’s is showcasing numerous sketches and drawings by the couturier himself. Drawn with colored felt-tip pens, watercolors, makeup blush or…Tipex, these works reflect the designer’s aesthetic as well as his personal life, with, for example, a portrait of Jacques de Bascher, the great love of his life, and a portrait of his cat Choupette. A number of objects related to his pet are also part of the collection.
Even more personal items are unveiled, including handwritten letters, postcards, greeting cards, messages scribbled on paper and albums made by the couturier. Bedding, crockery and music equipment (including vintage iPods, highly sought-after on the market) are also on show, as are a number of luxury garments.
Suits by Saint Laurent, accessories such as ties and eyewear, Dior pants, Hermès clutches, Chanel mittens, Massaro boots… A complete Karl Lagerfeld wardrobe.
A few pieces of furniture are also on offer, including a desk, chairs and armchairs by Hedi Slimane. “A glance at the interiors of his homes reveals a designer who knew how to perfectly balance the old and the new, the traditional and the radical, the serious and the original, and often with a touch of humor,” says Sotheby’s. Fragments of life that could, for some, soon be considered prized collector’s items, given the still-intact aura of the designer who left us in 2019.
The first four auctions led by Sotheby’s have not failed to draw crowds. Since 2021, 22.5 million euros have been raised, well above initial estimates. This latest stage in Karl Lagerfeld’s estate comes after his legacy was resolved at the end of 2024. The heirs finally reached an agreement to end their battle with the tax authorities and, in accordance with the artist’s will, divide up his fortune, estimated at over 200 million euros.
Read also > What has become of Karl Lagerfeld’s legacy?
Featured photo: © Sotheby’s
