Sotheby’s has been holding “Auction for action, bid for creation!”, to aid the Paris Opera House over the past week, the proceeds of which will support the Opera and the production of new shows. This exceptional event brings together works and collectibles from all eras and styles, all generously donated by artists, collectors and gallery owners, but our focus is on the jewel with royal connections and origins.
Opéra de Paris: Auction for Action, Bid for Creation
Bentley & Skinner Silver and Rhinestone Tiara
Estimate: 3,000 – 5,000 EUR
A gift from Queen Victoria
This Silver and Rhinestone Tiara is convertible into a necklace and rests in a circa 1890 case. The Tiara was reportedly a gift from Queen Victoria to one of her ladies in waiting who bequeathed to her son, a confirmed bachelor and balletomane, who gave it to Irina Baranova between 1937 and 1939, then by family decent to Bentley & Skinner. It was tradition for Queens to provide Tiaras to their ladies-in-waiting upon marriage.
