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19 May 2023

Agostino Guerra

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THE COLLECTION OF DONNA SUMMER

New York Americas 19 May 2023
THE COLLECTION OF DONNA SUMMER

NEW YORKChristie’s presents The Collection of Donna Summer, to be offered in an online sale in June 2023, open for bidding June 15th through June 29th, 2023. Ahead of the sale the singer-songwriter’s personal collection will be showcased in a curated exhibition and sale at Christie’s Rockefeller Center, in the heart of New York City.  

The Collection of Donna Summer showcases the ascent of the legendary star through memorabilia, including her numerous RIAA gold 45's, handwritten lyrics, and iconic performance outfits from concerts around the world. The collection also offers an intimate glimpse into her personal life through candid Polaroids taken at home and during her travels, as well as several of her evocative paintings, which she treasured as a favorite pastime. 

Donna Summer remains a cherished figure in the hearts of many: the undisputed queen of disco for her global fanbase, as well as a multifaceted artist, devoted wife, and loving mother. With enduring classics such as 'I Feel Love', 'Love to Love You Baby', and 'Bad Girls', Donna Summer not only revolutionized the music industry in the 1970s but continues to captivate and energize dance floors today, for both longtime admirers and a new generation of fans. 

Jonathan Rendell, Christie’s Deputy Chairman – Americas, commented:It’s a delight to present the collection of Donna Summer this June at Christie’s. Filled with objects that speak to a moment in time when Disco was in its most ascendant moment, the sale offers enthusiasts of all generations, a rare opportunity to own a part of music history.” 

Peter Klarnet, Christie’s Senior Specialist says: Donna Summer epitomized the disco era – but she also transcended the genre, producing timeless music that still resonates to this day. Christie's is thrilled to bring her estate to auction, from platinum records to handwritten lyrics as well as iconic stage costumes, we are confident our clients will be eager to bid on this once-in-a-lifetime collection.” 

Bruce Sudano commented: I’m thrilled for all the Donna Summer fans everywhere around the world, that Christie’s is offering this unique opportunity for them to share in her creative vision of music, art and fashion. Donna has the most loyal and knowledgeable fans, and she deeply appreciated them. 

A portion of the proceeds will go towards St. Jude Children's Research Hospital®, Save The Music Foundation and the Elton John AIDS Foundation. Selected highlights from the collection will tour to Christie’s Los Angeles May 31st – June 3rd 2023. 

EXHIBITION LOCATIONS:  

Los Angeles Tour May 31- June 3 
New York Viewing: June 23-27 

Visuals

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About Christie’s

Founded in 1766, Christie’s is a world-leading art and luxury business with a physical presence in 46 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, Middle East, and Asia Pacific, and flagship   international sales hubs  in New York, London, Hong Kong, Paris and Geneva. Renowned and trusted for our expert live and online-only auctions, as well as bespoke Private Sales, Christie’s unparalleled network of specialists offers our clients a full portfolio of  global services, including art appraisal, art financing, international real estate and education. Christie’s  auctions span more than  80 art and luxury categories, at price points ranging from $500 to over $100 million. Christie’s has sold 7 of the 10 most important single-owner collections in history, achieved the world record price for an artwork at auction, launched the first  fully on-chain auction platform dedicated to exceptional NFT art and manages an investment fund to support innovative startups in the art market. Christie’s is also committed to advancing  responsible culture  throughout its business and communities worldwide. To learn more, browse, bid, discover, and join us for the best of art and luxury at christies.com or by downloading Christie’s apps.


* Please note when quoting estimates above that other fees will apply in addition to the hammer price - see Section D of the Conditions of Sale at the back of the sale catalogue. *Estimates do not include buyer’s premium. Sales totals are hammer price plus buyer’s premium.