Unique Collections

Telling Stories: Objects often tell us as much about the personalities who owned them as they do about a particular period in history. Therefore, selling a collection has to be a bespoke and considered process. And it is a responsibility that we revel in.

Sotheby’s has a great tradition of being entrusted to sell important single-owner collections. We have represented a diverse array of collectors including Kings, Emperors, aristocrats, Presidents, Prime Ministers, artists and other truly extraordinary personalities.

Our single-owner team have over the years been lucky enough to handle the deeply personal treasures of others. From Jackie O’s pearls to Winston’s despatch box, Vivien’s annotated copy of Gone with the Wind, to a slice from Edward and Wallis’ wedding cake, Napoleon’s room key to JFK’s rocking chair, Bowie’s record player to Mountbatten’s Jag… These are just a few highlights which have formed part of notable collections. Cared for, curated and presented by us, as temporary custodians, to the world.