Carlo Bugatti throne.
Photo: Courtesy of Bonhams
Auction of the Week: Circa-1900 Throne by Carlo Bugatti Sells for Five Times Estimate
The auction house collaborated with acclaimed designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, who styled his favorite pieces in his Hollywood Hills home
On July 24, Bonhams Los Angeles presented the largest collection of Carlo Bugatti (1856-1940) pieces ever to be offered at auction. Over 60 works by the celebrated Art Nouveau designer hit the block, with 80 percent of the lots doubling their estimate—or more. Among the most impressive was a dazzling throne, crafted circa 1900, which sold for five times its estimate, ultimately fetching $70,350.
“Only a handful of works by Carlo Bugatti tend to be offered at auction every year, so this sale presented an unprecedented opportunity to delve deep into the artist’s oeuvre and acquire a superb work by the famed designer,” said David Trujillo, Bonhams Head of Sale, Modern Decorative Art and Design. “This was a once-in-a-lifetime auction, and the collector response to this incredible collection is reflected in the exceptional results we achieved.”
Works by celebrated Art Nouveau designer Carlo Bugatti were installed in Martyn Lawrence Bullard's Hollywood Hills home in advance of the Bonhams sale. Photo: Bonhams
The works are from the trove of late American businessman and philanthropist Peter Mullin, who was known for having one of the best collections of Bugatti automobiles in the world. Unbeknownst to most, he had also amassed a strong collection dedicated to the artwork of the entire Bugatti family, with over 55 pieces from the Milan-born Carlo, as well as sculptures from his son, Rembrandt Bugatti (1884-1916).
Carlo Bugatti’s designs featured organic shapes and motifs that combined Orientalist and Gothic motifs, in accordance with the Art Nouveau style of the time. The throne—crafted in walnut, ebonized walnut, hammered copper, painted parchment, inlaid pewter, inlaid brass, and silk tassels—is an exceptional example of his intricate craftsmanship and flair.
Bugatti aficionado Martyn Lawrence Bullard styled a handful of the pieces in his Hollywood Hills home. “Bugatti’s Hispano Moresque style is so exotic and decorative," he said. “The rarity and unique design of his pieces inspire me deeply.” Photo: Bonhams
In advance of the sale, Bonhams partnered with acclaimed Los Angeles–based interior designer and Bugatti aficionado Martyn Lawrence Bullard, who styled a handful of the pieces in his Hollywood Hills home. “Bugatti’s Hispano Moresque style is so exotic and decorative,” he said. “The rarity and unique design of his pieces inspire me deeply.”
He continued: “I’m drawn to his ability to combine and blend a myriad of influences. From Moorish and Spanish to Chinese and Japanese elements, his pieces hold an imaginative aesthetic that only Bugatti could create.” When asked what his favorite work is, the designer was quick to respond, “My favorite is the extraordinary throne chair. Who wouldn’t want a Carlo Bugatti throne in their house? It’s a standout piece.”
Other highlights included a desk, also from circa 1900, which fetched four times its estimate at $83,050 as well as a sterling silver dragonfly bowl, circa 1907, which sold for a whopping $191,000.
Over 60 works by the celebrated Art Nouveau designer hit the block, with 80 percent of the lots doubling their estimate—or more. Photo: Bonhams
Bugatti furniture in Martyn Lawrence Bullard's Hollywood Hills home. Photo: Bonhams
Cover: Carlo Bugatti throne.
Photo: Courtesy of Bonhams
