The extravagant world of Freddie Mercury as Sotheby's auctions off treasures from his personal collection at Garden Lodge. Explore fine art, elaborate costumes, and handwritten lyrics, all while contributing to charitable causes dear to the Queen frontman's heart, in this tribute to his enduring influence on music, art, and philanthropy
Freddie Mercury, the legendary Queen frontman known for his flamboyant music and larger-than-life public persona, is still making headlines decades after his passing. This week, an array of treasures from his eclectic personal collection at Garden Lodge, his former residence, are set to go under the hammer at Sotheby's. The auction, titled "Freddie Mercury: A World of His Own," kicks off on Wednesday, just one day after what would have been the iconic singer's 77th birthday.
Mercury's Garden Lodge home served as a sanctuary for the artist from 1980 until his untimely death in 1991. The residence was not just a place to call home; it was a reflection of his unique tastes and extravagant lifestyle. The collection includes an assortment of fine art, elaborate costumes, decorative furniture pieces, and, most notably, handwritten lyrics to some of Queen's greatest hits.
Over the summer, a preview of the auction, featuring highlights from Mercury's collection, was showcased in New York City, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong. Meanwhile, the full collection remains on display in London until Tuesday, drawing fans and collectors from around the world.
The auction is not just an opportunity for fans to own a piece of rock 'n' roll history; it also serves a noble cause. Proceeds from the auction will be generously donated to two charitable foundations closely associated with Mercury's legacy: the Mercury Phoenix Trust and the Elton John AIDS Foundation. Both organizations are dedicated to the fight against HIV/AIDS, a cause that was dear to Mercury's heart.
After Mercury's passing, his cherished Garden Lodge was entrusted to Mary Austin, one of his closest and dearest friends. The decision to auction off the remarkable collection was made in collaboration with Sotheby's London, with preparations dating back to the beginning of 2023.
David Macdonald, Sotheby's London head of single-owner sales, expressed his excitement about the auction, saying, "Freddie Mercury was not only a musical genius but also a true connoisseur of art and beauty. This collection provides a unique glimpse into his world, and we are thrilled to bring these treasures to the public."
As the world pays tribute to the legendary performer on what would have been his birthday, the auction serves as a testament to Freddie Mercury's enduring influence on music, art, and philanthropy. His extravagant tastes, larger-than-life persona, and charitable spirit continue to shine brightly, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment and humanitarian causes.
A World of His Own" auction stands as a poignant celebration of the enduring legacy of Freddie Mercury, a true icon of music and self-expression. It is an opportunity for fans, art enthusiasts, and philanthropists to connect with the remarkable essence of a man whose influence transcends generations. As the world commemorates what would have been his birthday, this auction not only unveils the treasures of his life but also reinforces the enduring impact of his artistry and his commitment to making the world a better place through his charitable endeavors. Freddie Mercury's spirit lives on, as his extravagant tastes, larger-than-life persona, and charitable spirit continue to inspire and illuminate our world.