$34 Million Edgar Bronfman Collection Headed for Auction

The art collection of late philanthropist, longtime president of the World Jewish Congress, and Seagram Co. chief Edgar Bronfman Sr. is headed to Christie’s auction blocks around the world this spring. In total, the collection is estimated to make more than US$34 million at sales in New York, London, and Hong Kong, according to a statement released by the house on Friday.

Bronfman’s collection is heavy in Impressionist and modern art. Nearly a third of the total estimated worth is to be derived from a single Picasso, Mangeuse de pastèque et homme écrivant (1965), for which Christie’s has projected a result between US$7-10 million. Following the Picasso in value are Degas’ sculpture, Le Tub (1889) and a Matisse painting Femme auprès de la fenêtre (1920), which are estimated at US$4-6 million and US$3-5 million, respectively.