MODERN

This stunning bed was commissioned by Anne Getty for a particular visit and performance by the renowned American soprano Jessye Norman (1945-2019). This Augusta, Georgia native and Howard University alumna started her career with Berlin’s Deutsche Oper, and from there performed extensively throughout Europe and later, the United States. Her fame and admiration among the French was such as that in 1984 the French government bestowed upon her the title of Commandeur de L’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, a recognition of significant contribution to the arts; other title holders have included T.S. Elliot, Stevie Wonder, and Audrey Hepburn. Norman also notably performed at inaugurations for both Presidents Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton, as well as for Queen Elizabeth's 60th birthday. With many more awards, honors and achievements to her name, Jessye Norman's visit and performance at the Getty's Broadway home in San Francisco was of significant note and was to be marked by a splendid and grand reception and lodging. The present lot was one such element that the exemplary hostess, Ann Getty, commissioned for the occasion.