THE POWER TO BEWITCH

Property from the collection of Bruce and Elizabeth Chatwin

Bruce Chatwin, described by The New York Times as one of the “last great explorers”, died almost 35 years ago, but his power to inspire and bewitch remains undiminished.

Chatwin was an art expert, an archaeologist, a connoisseur of the extraordinary and a feted travel author whose book – “In Patagonia” (published: 1977) - was hailed as a masterpiece of travel, history and adventure. His devastating good looks and enigmatic personality ensured he was on everyone’s guest list, including Jackie Kennedy Onassis, who found him “irresistible”.

A TIBETAN HORSE BLANKET, 135cm long | £1,000 - £2,000

Duke’s of Dorchester will be selling a small group of items – textiles, furniture, pictures and ceramics – from the collection of Bruce and Elizabeth Chatwin in their auction on 13th July. The collection is, as one might expect, eclectic. A Tibetan horse blanket with a vivid geometric design is estimated at £1,000-£2,000 and a simple Delftware beer jug could be yours for £50-£100. The auction will include a pair of stylish easy chairs with tall backs and a modernist steel chair designed by Mart Stam. A photograph published in Vogue shows Chatwin in the chair with the easy chairs to one side.

Chairs to be sold in Duke's Summer Interiors on 13th Juy 

Guy Schwinge of Duke’s commented: “Bruce Chatwin was an enigma who became a legend in his own lifetime. The objects we are selling perfectly express his sense of style and present an opportunity for buyers to acquire something imbued with the Chatwin “magic”.

COLLECTION HIGHLIGHTS

RUPERT SPIRA (b.1960) A BLUE CHUN GLAZED BOWL signed to the base, 8.5cm high x 24cm wide | £100 - £200

A PAIR OF LOUIS XV GREY-PAINTED FAUTEUIL, 88cm high x 58cm wide | £500 - £1,000

A LOUIS XV STYLE KINGWOOD AND MARBLE TOPPED COMMODE,  82.5cm high x 78.5cm wide x 42cm deep | £400 - £700

Entries are being invited

More information

Head of Sale | William Batt

+ 44 (0) 1305 265080

[email protected]