Fans of Sir Elton John’s flamboyant style will next week have the chance to splash out on his snappiest Versace looks in a huge 900-plus lot auction that includes the contents of the Rocket Man’s $7.2m (£5.7m) Atlanta apartment.
Christie’s auction house in New York’s Rockefeller Center has been transformed into a John emporium for two live – and six online – sales of the singer’s collection, including several pairs of his trademark thick rim spectacles and a vast art collection that features a Love, Lust and Devotion section dedicated to his treasure trove of male art.
John sold his skyscraper condo in Atlanta for $7m in November – 45% more than its asking price. It was bought by the star more than 30 years ago for just under $1m and the singer and his husband, David Furnish, expanded the duplex into a four-bedroom, seven-bathroom residence by acquiring five neighbouring units.
The auctions kick off on Wednesday night, and proceeds from the couple’s house clearance, combined with sales of other items, are expected to exceed $10m.
A Banksy original Flower Thrower Triptych, which shows a man seemingly about to throw something in an act of violence but actually throwing a bouquet, is expected to be the single most expensive item on offer, with an estimate of $1m to $1.5m.
Also on the block are a pair of silver leather platform boots, with the letters E and J picked out in red, that John wore on tour ($5,000 to $10,000); a heart-shaped artwork by Damien Hirst called Your Song that features a picture of John and Furnish with the inscription: “xxx or Elton + David love Damien Thank You” ($350,000-450,000); and a Yamaha Conservatory grand piano, on which John practised hits for the musicals Aida and Billy Elliot ($30,000-50,000).
There is a pinball machine designed for the manufacturer Jersey Jack Pinball that features John’s image and plays his hits including Tiny Dancer and Rocket Man.
John declared himself a Pinball Wizard in the 1975 hit that begins with the lyrics: “Ever since I was a young boy, I’ve played the silver ball. / From Soho down to Brighton I must have played them all.” It is estimated at $10,000 to $15,000, and the proceeds from this lot will go to the Elton John Aids foundation.
Tash Perrin, the deputy chair of Christie’s Americas, said: “This extraordinary collection not only showcases a diverse array of remarkable objects that encapsulate Elton’s unique life, work and art but also provides our clients with a glimpse into the profound impact that the city of Atlanta had on him.
“We take immense pride in presenting this multi-category sale, featuring a refined assortment of photographs, artworks, fashion, and costumes – a testament to a man’s eclectic vision, artistry, and impeccable taste.”
There are so many items of clothes and jewellery that Christie’s is holding three dedicated auctions for them, including one called: The Collection of Sir Elton John: Out of the Closet.
Another is devoted to his Versace collection, which “pays homage to the intimate and influential friendship shared between the legendary musician and the iconic designer”. Christie’s says the collection “offers a glimpse into the profound connection that existed between these two influential figures in the worlds of music and fashion”.
A copy of the catalogue of the collection, called Goodbye Peachtree Road after the location of John’s 13,500 sq ft apartment in Atlanta, costs £50.
