




Sotheby’s London is preparing to auction the largest single-owner collection of Claude Lalanne jewellery, spanning from September 8 to 19, 2025.
The collection belongs to art collector Pauline Karpidas, known for her influential role in contemporary art and dedication to preserving Lalanne’s creative legacy.
Experts expect the auction to achieve estimates exceeding £60 million, potentially becoming the highest-grossing single-owner jewellery sale in Sotheby’s European history.
Pauline Karpidas: Collector, Muse, and Art Enthusiast
Pauline Karpidas began her journey in art collection after opening a boutique in Athens, where she met her husband, Constantine Karpidas.
Together, they curated a prestigious collection including works by Salvador Dalí, René Magritte, and Claude and François-Xavier Lalanne, reflecting their refined taste and vision.
Over decades, Karpidas developed a deep friendship with Claude Lalanne, becoming not only a collector but also a muse for many bespoke creations.
A Collection Steeped in Nature and Surrealism
The 21-piece jewellery collection spans over two decades, featuring Lalanne’s signature botanical motifs, including flowers, leaves, and butterflies, executed in copper and silver.
Each piece was meticulously electroplated, reflecting Lalanne’s fascination with combining natural forms and metallic craftsmanship to create wearable surrealist art.
Collectors and enthusiasts praise the jewellery for seamlessly blending artistry and functionality, making each item both an object of beauty and personal expression.
The Artistry Behind Each Piece
Claude Lalanne designed the pieces with inspiration drawn from Pauline Karpidas’ personality and her connection with nature, transforming everyday botanical elements into intricate jewellery.
Many designs mirror Lalanne’s furniture and sculptural work, including iconic motifs seen in her famous “Pauline’s Throne” and “Pauline’s Elephants,” demonstrating continuity across her artistic disciplines.
François-Xavier Lalanne once remarked that Pauline’s influence brought “the spirit of life” into each creation, reflecting her role as a muse and collaborator.
Auction Highlights and Expectations
Sotheby’s will offer 21 unique jewellery pieces, each encased in delicate metallic finishes and detailed with Lalanne’s characteristic surrealist touches.
The collection represents an unparalleled opportunity for collectors to acquire high-value works that embody both the artistic heritage and personal narrative of Lalanne.
Auction experts note that Karpidas’ provenance significantly enhances the collection’s historical and financial value, making this event highly anticipated in the international art market.
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