Irene Roosevelt Aitken's collection at Christie's is a treasure trove of Old-World opulence, boasting nearly 800 lots that exemplify the refinement and taste of European connoisseurship. The collection spans centuries, with Fragonard drawings, Romney portraits, Savonnerie carpets, Louis XV giltwood chairs, Meissen porcelain, and antique firearms, each piece a testament to Aitken's discerning eye.
The upcoming auctions, set for February 11-13, will feature several live sales, as well as online options. The Christie's New York headquarters is hosting an exhibition of the collection, which has been carefully curated to evoke the atmosphere of Irene's own living spaces. Room-like settings have been recreated, offering a rare glimpse into Aitken's world of luxury and refinement.
Christie's deputy chairman Will Strafford praises the consistency of quality across the various categories in the collection, highlighting the impeccable provenance of lots that were once owned by influential figures such as Winston Guest, Consuelo Vanderbilt Balsan, and Thelma Chrysler Foy.
Art and design collectors alike have had the privilege of admiring Irene's collection, which is considered extraordinary for its connoisseurship. The sale of her Hugh Douglas Hamilton 1790 portrait to Irene remains a notable example of the strong interest in European paintings among American buyers.
However, with the passing of high-society collectors like Jayne Wrightsman and Jane Engelhard, and deep-pocketed figures such as Bezos, Beyoncé, and others, it's unclear whether demand for Aitken's rarefied antiques still holds sway. Collector Susan Gutfreund notes that while she has trimmed her collection, she still collects 18th-century Sèvres porcelain, a testament to the enduring appeal of these artifacts.
On the other hand, Paris dealer Guillaume Léage asserts that "the taste for French 18th Century remains alive," with Christie's sale set to attract clients from institutions such as the Louvre, the Met, and the Getty. The rarity and importance of Matthew Boulton's oeuvre make it a highly anticipated segment of the sale.
Auctioneer Will Strafford remains confident that the market for Old-World opulence will endure, citing examples such as the Rothschild sale, which achieved a staggering $62.6 million against a trifling estimate of $20-33 million. The fact that young fashion designers are buying French and British 18th-century furniture for its craftsmanship also suggests a continued demand for these luxury goods.
As Christie's prepares to showcase Irene Roosevelt Aitken's collection, it will be interesting to see whether the under-40 set will follow in her footsteps or if they will opt for more modern tastes. One thing is certain: Irene's legacy as a connoisseur of European refinement will live on through this extraordinary sale.
The upcoming auctions, set for February 11-13, will feature several live sales, as well as online options. The Christie's New York headquarters is hosting an exhibition of the collection, which has been carefully curated to evoke the atmosphere of Irene's own living spaces. Room-like settings have been recreated, offering a rare glimpse into Aitken's world of luxury and refinement.
Christie's deputy chairman Will Strafford praises the consistency of quality across the various categories in the collection, highlighting the impeccable provenance of lots that were once owned by influential figures such as Winston Guest, Consuelo Vanderbilt Balsan, and Thelma Chrysler Foy.
Art and design collectors alike have had the privilege of admiring Irene's collection, which is considered extraordinary for its connoisseurship. The sale of her Hugh Douglas Hamilton 1790 portrait to Irene remains a notable example of the strong interest in European paintings among American buyers.
However, with the passing of high-society collectors like Jayne Wrightsman and Jane Engelhard, and deep-pocketed figures such as Bezos, Beyoncé, and others, it's unclear whether demand for Aitken's rarefied antiques still holds sway. Collector Susan Gutfreund notes that while she has trimmed her collection, she still collects 18th-century Sèvres porcelain, a testament to the enduring appeal of these artifacts.
On the other hand, Paris dealer Guillaume Léage asserts that "the taste for French 18th Century remains alive," with Christie's sale set to attract clients from institutions such as the Louvre, the Met, and the Getty. The rarity and importance of Matthew Boulton's oeuvre make it a highly anticipated segment of the sale.
Auctioneer Will Strafford remains confident that the market for Old-World opulence will endure, citing examples such as the Rothschild sale, which achieved a staggering $62.6 million against a trifling estimate of $20-33 million. The fact that young fashion designers are buying French and British 18th-century furniture for its craftsmanship also suggests a continued demand for these luxury goods.
As Christie's prepares to showcase Irene Roosevelt Aitken's collection, it will be interesting to see whether the under-40 set will follow in her footsteps or if they will opt for more modern tastes. One thing is certain: Irene's legacy as a connoisseur of European refinement will live on through this extraordinary sale.
. While it's true that the market for high-end antiques may be subject to fluctuations, I firmly believe that there will always be a discerning audience willing to part with substantial sums for exceptional pieces of historical significance.
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Like Aitken's collection, we're all drawn to the finer things in life - but what makes them truly valuable is the memories and experiences they bring, not just their monetary worth 
. We can learn a thing or two from Irene's dedication to preserving her tastes and traditions. What's important isn't how much money we spend, but the quality of our lives 
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Christie's is expecting a killing, with the Rothschild sale being this crazy example of how rich collectors are willing to go. And what about the fact that only the super wealthy can afford these things now? It's like, art and antiques aren't for everyone anymore... 
It's just a matter of collecting art and history, right? I think it's great that there's still interest in European connoisseurship. The fact that auctioneers are getting bids from big institutions like the Louvre and the Met is a testament to its enduring appeal 
. And let's be real, who wouldn't want some of those gorgeous Fragonard drawings or Savonnerie carpets? They're like pieces of history! 
. And what's with the emphasis on European stuff? Don't get me wrong, I love a good Fragonard drawing or Savonnerie carpet as much as the next person, but can't we appreciate some global influences instead of just sticking to Europe? 
i mean, 800 lots?! that's like, a treasure trove of opulence and refinement... i need to know what kind of rarefied antiques they're talking about here 
like, will they even care about european connoisseurship? 
anyway, gotta stay tuned for these auctions!! 
but now they're gone & it's up to younger ppl 
to keep the tradition alive? 
like, remember when Audrey Hepburn was famous for her love of antique furniture? 
now it's all about Insta-famous designers & their overpriced handbags 
So according to Christie's, nearly 800 lots are up for grabs and that's like, crazy! 
And with young fashion designers buying French and British 18th-century furniture for its craftsmanship, I think we can say that demand for these luxury goods is still alive and kicking 
it's gonna be a treasure trove for art and design collectors. but at the same time, with the passing of high-society collectors and deep-pocketed figures, you gotta wonder if demand still holds sway 
. What I am sure of is that Irene Aitken left behind a truly remarkable legacy – one that celebrates European refinement and connoisseurship 
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. It must be breathtakingly beautiful, with its carefully curated rooms and stunning artwork 
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