A leading philanthropist, visionary collector and tireless patron of the arts, Anne Hendricks Bass (1941 – 2020) was widely admired for her refined eye, intellectual rigour and deep commitment to beauty in all its forms. She was one of New York’s most respected philanthropists supporting the New York Botanical Garden, the Museum of Modern Art and the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts. Additionally, her efforts to save Texas Ballet Theatre from bankruptcy and her 25-year tenure on the New York City Ballet board created a lasting impact on American arts.

During her lifetime, Mrs. Bass was celebrated not only for her philanthropic spirit and enduring commitment to the arts, but also for her refined taste, timeless elegance, and exceptional eye for beauty. Lots 114 to 139 showcase the fine collection of jewels assembled with discernment and passion over decades, and comes from Mrs. Bass’s personal collection. It represents one of the most impeccably curated private jewelry collections to appear on the market. The collection features the exceptional pieces of famed houses such as Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari and Cartier. Most notably, it features one of the finest private assemblages of jewels by the legendary Joel Arthur Rosenthal, widely known as JAR. Many of these exceptional works are featured in the landmark 2002 publication JAR Volume I, making this sale a rare opportunity to acquire creations of profound beauty and historical importance.

Mrs. Bass’ legacy and refined spirit endure, not only through her remarkable patronage of the arts but also through this extraordinary collection of jewelry.