Having attracted over 12,000 visitors to the pre-sale exhibition, 24% of registrants to The George Michael Collection were new to Christie’s. The evening auction welcomed registered bidders from 27 countries across 5 continents, reflecting the global appeal of George Michael and the YBAs. The evening sale comprised 60 lots and was 100% sold, with competitive bidding in the saleroom in London and via simulcast from New York, in addition to online via Christie’s Live™. The standalone online sale continues until lunchtime on Friday 15th March, after which point the combined total realized will be announced.
Jussi Pylkkänen, Global President of Christie’s, and auctioneer for the night commented: “Tonight’s sale was another great moment for the London art market and particularly for so many YBA artists. We are delighted to have organized this landmark auction of The Collection of George Michael. An innovative collaboration with the Trustees of the George Michael Estate, we have witnessed significant footfall from fans and collectors alike to the exhibition. To realize such a significant sum, with proceeds from the sale being used to continue George Michael’s philanthropic work, is what we’ve all been working towards. We hope the charities who will ultimately benefit will be pleased with the outcome.”
Cristian Albu, Co-Head Post-War & Contemporary of Christie’s, added: “It has been an honor to have been entrusted with The George Michael Collection, a celebration of creativity and adventure, representing an extraordinary period in British culture. We are thrilled to have achieved such a strong result with the evening sale, and with bidding still continuing online until lunchtime on Friday, we’re now looking forward to the overall total.”