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Lot Essay
Like the grand connoisseurs and collectors of the 18th century, George Blumenthal continued the tradition of patronage and collecting. A German emigré whose genius for foreign exchange while working for Lazard Frères in New York made both his fortune and his reputation as one of Wall Street's most respected financiers, Blumenthal retired from finance in 1925. With his wife, Florence, they devoted themselves to art and philanthropy. Though largely unknown today, George Blumenthal's influence equaled that of his most famous contemporary, J. Pierpont Morgan. Blumenthal also donated significant funds to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, served as its President from 1935-1941 and left the Museum the contents of his palatial New York mansion--over seven hundred works, including significant Italian Renaissance paintings, early works of art and decorations.
The Blumenthals Paris hôtel particulier was filled with paintings by 18th century artists such as Fragonard, Boucher and Watteau, as well as equally important French furniture and works of art. Florence Blumenthal died in 1930, and the contents of their home were sold by Georges Petit two years later.
The Blumenthals Paris hôtel particulier was filled with paintings by 18th century artists such as Fragonard, Boucher and Watteau, as well as equally important French furniture and works of art. Florence Blumenthal died in 1930, and the contents of their home were sold by Georges Petit two years later.
