Equestrian, Bronze on Marble Stand, ex. Michael Jackson.
Sculptor: Isidore Bonheur (French, 19th Century), 30" x 26" x 9.5" (76 x 66 x 24 cm), bronze equestrian statue on marble stand. Signed on base.
As "The King of Pop," Michael Jackson acquired many beautiful objects, joyfully decorating his fabled ranch and amusement park in Santa Barbara County, California. Due to the entertainer's enormous global popularity, he had virtually unlimited funds with which to purchase treasured objects. He was particularly fond of bronze sculpted figures, many of which could be found on the grounds of his ranch.
In 2009, a major auction of Michael's possessions was to be held. A true "headliner", there was great excitement over the coming event. Legal issues arose however, and the auction was cancelled. Michael Jackson fans around the world were terribly disappointed.
One passionate fan, however, did not give up. Determined to own some of Michael's treasures, he pursued the matter and in the end, was able to acquire this figure and the approximately sixty five other sculptures in this auction from the Michael Jackson Collection. It is believed that these objects are the only items from the cancelled "King of Pop" Auction ever to be sold.
Provenance: Julien's Auctions; The Collection of the King of Pop: Michael Jackson, April 22-25, 2009, Lot 536
A notarized letter of provenance from the consignor will be provided with this lot.
Please note: Lots 1 - 35 and 51 - 80 will ship from Southern California. Guernsey's can put bidders in contact with a recommended shipper for a quote.
Bonheur is best known as one of the 19th Century's most distinguished French animalier sculptors. Notable works were placed at the Chateau du Fontainebleau; the entrance of the parc Georges-Brassens, Paris; Salon de la SociŽtŽ nationale des Beaux-Arts, Archives nationales, site de Pierrefitte-sur-Seine; Musee des Beaux-Arts, Bordeaux; Musee d'Orsay, Paris; and various other museums.