Barbara Walters’ Jewelry and Art Collections Head to Auction

Walters was famous for the bold earrings and brooches worn during many important interviews and broadcasts, as well as an impressive assortment of American Art from notable names like John Singer Sargent. 

“Barbara Walters was a remarkable woman who conquered many milestones throughout her illustrious life,” said Bruno Vinciguerra, CEO of Bonhams. “We are privileged to present her collection and recognize the immense importance of preserving her legacy.”

Earning top billing among her jewelry is the 13.84-carat platinum diamond Harry Winston engagement ring Merv Adelson gave Walters before their brief marriage. The eye-catching piece, which features an emerald-cut diamond of D color flanked by trilliant-cut diamonds, was worn by Walters to countless important events, and is expected to bring in US$600,000 to US$900,000. 

“Walters clearly had a genuine love for jewelry and it reflected a large part of her identity, acting as a form of armor and feminine adornment in a male-dominated world,” said Jean Ghika, Bonhams’ global head of jewelry. “Her jewels of choice were big, bold, and audacious, which suited her personality. For Barbara Walters, jewelry made her feel dressed.”

Other big-ticket items include several pairs of bespoke gem-set earrings by JAR, aka Paris-based Joel A. Rosenthal, with estimates ranging from US$150,000 to US$300,000 each. 

Walters was known to enjoy hosting gatherings at the apartment overlooking Central Park, her home of three decades, which hit the market (priced at US$19.75 million) in April. 

Her extensive dinnerware collection is also up for grabs, meaning the public can acquire the same fine China teacups and dishes used by the star-studded guests of her soirees; regulars included Dr. Henry and Nancy Kissinger, Oscar and Annette de la Renta, Andrew Lloyd Webber, and Hugh Jackman. 

The items from the home showcase Walters’ distinct style, “with a strong sense of femininity seen in the ornate furniture and paintings of idyllic scenes mixed with bold choices seen in the animal prints and red-walled library,” according to the auction notes.  

An influential style icon for generations of professional women, Walters’ gowns by Oscar de la Renta and handbags by Hermès and Chanel will also be included in the sale.

For her art collection, Walters chose to focus on American Impressionism and the Beaux-Arts Style, having acquired works by renowned artists such as John Singer Sargent, Childe Hassam, and Frank W Benson. The pieces served as a reminder of her New England roots; Walters was born and raised in Boston.  

The Flower Girls (Peonies), 1888, by Childe Hassam, was displayed in her front hallway for maximum visibility and enjoyment; it’s expected to fetch between US$1 million and US$1.5 million. Another highlight of the collection is Egyptian Woman (Coin Necklace), 1891, by John Singer Sargent, a rare piece that’s estimated to go for US$1.2 million to US$1.8 million. 

“My mother was a devoted journalist, loyal friend, and loving mother. Our home was always filled with interesting and beautiful reminders of her incredible, diverse life,” remarked Walters’ daughter, Jacqueline Danforth, in the auction notes. “I know she would find comfort that these pieces she cherished so much will be enjoyed and cared for.”

Bonhams will present highlights from the collection at its salerooms, beginning in Walters’ hometown of Boston, followed by Los Angeles, Paris, London, and Hong Kong, in advance of the final live auction in New York. An online sale will also run from Oct. 29 to Nov. 7. 

As directed by Walters, a committed philanthropist, the net proceeds of the sale will benefit charities Walters supported.