Many people hope to live a long and happy life. David Rockefeller accomplished just that. At the age of 101, the financial mogul passed away but was sure to leave his mark on society. Earlier this month it was announced that many of Rockefeller’s personal items are being put up for sale including his NYC penthouse. The most noteworthy piece of Rockefeller’s estate going for auction is his art collection. A collection that was obtained over six decades is now heading to Christie’s auction house for what is likely to be the auction of the century.
David and his wife Penny were extremely active art enthusiasts. In 1994, the Museum of Modern Art used the couple’s lavish collection as the subject of one of their exhibitions. The Rockefeller’s had a strong relationship with MoMA. Thus, earnings from the auction will go to the museum, along with other philanthropic organizations. As one of the first members of “The Giving Pledge”, Rockefeller generously promised to donate more than half of his worth upon his passing. David Rockefeller Jr., has publicly stated his family’s willingness to fulfill his father’s wishes by contributing the auction earnings to charity.
The Rockefeller’s personal art collection has an estimated 15,000 pieces. Christie’s has received about 2,000 works of art from the compilation. With selections from the Impressionist, post-Impressionist and modern eras, the auction will earn around $500 million or more. Experts are already calling it the art auction of this and last century. In 2009, the art collection of Yves Saint Laurent auctioned at a record-breaking $484 million. It seems as though the Rockefellers are more than likely to steal this title. Prior to the auction in the spring of next year, the collection will travel around America, Europe, and Asia. None of the items for auction have been revealed and it is likely that they will remain private until the tour.
It seems as though the generous and philanthropic nature of David and Peggy Rockefeller will live on. As they lived their lives full of compassion and selflessness, so will their legacy. For those fortunate enough to buy a piece from this collection, they will own a legendary work of art with a great sentimental history.