The Astor Collection from Tillypronie, the finest collection of sporting and ornithological art to come to market in over 20 years, will come up at Christie’s as part of December Classic Week. The auction includes one of the most comprehensive selections of works by ornithological artist Archibald Thorburn, along with a younger generation of artists such as Claire Harkess, Steven Porwol, Darren Woodhead and Jonathan Sainsbury, many of whom have been hosted at the historic Tillypronie estate in Scotland. It reflects the Astor family’s thoughtful collecting interests and also presents sculpture, furniture and decorative arts. It comes up at Christie’s London on 15 December 15 along with an online-only sale that will be open for bids from December 9 to 18.
John James Audubon (1785-1851) – Frigate Pelican (£7,000-10,000)
Archibald Thorburn (1860-1935) – A Frosty Dawn (£50,000-70,000)