Sotheby's is preparing to present an extraordinary auction featuring the curated collection of Jean and Terry de Gunzburg, scheduled for April and May. This two-part event will offer around 135 exquisite pieces, with estimated values ranging from $67 million to $99 million.
The first segment, set for April 22, will focus on design and is projected to generate between $30 million and $44 million, marking it as the most valuable single-owner design auction in Sotheby's history. Following this, a selection of modern and contemporary art will be highlighted during the May evening sales.
Among the standout pieces in May is Mark Rothko's Untitled (1969), expected to fetch between $10 million and $15 million. This painting, created in the final year of Rothko's life, connects closely with his work for the Rothko Chapel. Also featured will be Agnes Martin's Untitled #6 (1977), estimated at $3 million to $4 million, and Robert Ryman's Versions III (1992), valued at $2.5 million to $3.5 million. Additionally, a 1955 portrait by Picasso and a 1932 piece by Paul Klee will be part of the lineup.
The April design auction will be highlighted by a collection of 15 mirrors crafted by Claude Lalanne between 1974 and 1985 for Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé's Paris apartment. This unique ensemble is estimated to be worth between $10 million and $15 million, presenting a rare chance to acquire a cohesive set originally designed for an iconic interior.
Other notable items in the design auction include a circa 1926 shagreen cabinet by André Groult, estimated at $600,000 to $800,000; a pair of mahogany cabinets by Alexandre Noll valued at $700,000 to $1 million; and Jean Royère's "Ours Polaire" sofa and matching chairs from around 1950, each estimated at $600,000 to $800,000. Works by renowned designers such as Jean-Michel Frank and Paul Dupré-Lafon will also be featured.
Jean and Terry de Gunzburg have described their collecting journey as one driven by instinct and a passion for art that resonates with them. Terry, who founded the beauty brand By Terry, expressed their intention to allow their children to cultivate their own collections while creating more adaptable living spaces.
The timing of this auction aligns with increasing interest in 20th-century design, especially following Sotheby's recent success in the design category, which saw a record-breaking total during its December 2025 Design Week in New York.