William Alexander Coulter’s (1849-1936) Ships Sailing in the San Francisco Bay with Fort Point in the Distance, is one of the works that ensured the stunning Dianne Feinstein auction results. Image: Bonhams

The Dianne Feinstein auction results revealed stunning bids, with her personal collection raising $1.85 million and captivating the art world.

BY ARTCENTRON NEWS

LOS ANGELES– Bonhams auction house recently held a remarkable sale of the late Senator Dianne Feinstein’s personal collection, generating immense interest and excitement. The auction spanned nearly 12 hours and achieved a staggering $1.85 million, doubling initial estimates and setting new records for Bonhams. Notably, it marked the highest number of registrations for any U.S. sale and the most significant global sale in the past 15 years.

A significant portion of the bidding came from California, with local buyers accounting for 70% of the total hammer price. Moreover, the auction attracted a fresh wave of collectors, with new buyers representing 40% of the sales.

Victoria R. Gray, Deputy Chairman of Bonhams North America, remarked, “The turnout is a testament to Senator Feinstein’s profound influence in California. We are proud to celebrate her life and career while offering collectors a chance to own a piece of her enduring legacy.”

Stunning Dianne Feinstein Auction Results

The auction showcased 278 lots, featuring exquisite furniture, design pieces from Feinstein’s three homes, an impressive American art collection, and significant political memorabilia. The highlight was an extensive jewelry collection, reflecting Feinstein’s elegance as a distinguished American dignitary.

Notable jewelry pieces included a platinum and diamond ring, which sold for $108,450—over double its estimate. Additionally, an 18k gold rose petal set attributed to Angela Cummings for Tiffany & Co. fetched $10,880. A rare 14k bi-color gold and diamond California State Flower brooch sold for an astonishing $19,200.

Feinstein’s political memorabilia also attracted significant bids, reaching nearly five times their estimated value. Highlights included:

• A Mayoral Desk Plaque for $3,840 (25x its estimate)
• A letter from Jimmy Carter, sold for $4,864 (6x its estimate)
• A piece of the Berlin Wall for $3,584 (36x its estimate)

Art collectors were equally engaged with William Alexander Coulter’s painting, Ships Sailing in the San Francisco Bay. It sold for $229,100—three times its estimate. Four Chinese Doucai ‘shou and peach tree’ dishes achieved a remarkable $108,450, against an estimate of $2,500-3,500.

In total, the auction realized a 99% sell-through rate, underscoring the lasting appeal of Senator Feinstein’s legacy. Following this successful event, Bonhams will host two more online sales featuring Feinstein’s jewelry. It runs until October 15. The online sale of her late husband Richard Blum’s art collection runs through October 24.

This auction not only commemorated Feinstein’s life but also showcased the vibrant market for historical and cultural artifacts. It reflects her enduring impact on American politics and society.