Christie's to auction Steven A Greenberg Collection in New York

KOLKATA: Christie's is presenting The Steven A Greenberg Collection, Masterpieces of French Art Deco to be auctioned in New York on December 12 and 13, 2012, in an evening and day sale.

This museum-quality collection chronicles a unique chapter in the history of 20th Century design, focusing in depth on some of the most distinguished artists associated with the historic Paris Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes in 1925 -- Jean Dunand, Emile-Jacques Ruhlmann, and Jean Dupas.

Two important lacquer screens by Eileen Gray, perfect complements in their rarity and stature to the works of these artists, constitute another key facet of Steven Greenberg's collection. With approximately 210 lots, the sale is expected to realize in excess of $15 million.

Steven A Greenberg was a genuine connoisseur whose passion for the subject was sparked in the 1970s when he bought his first pieces on a trip to Paris. Steven A Greenberg was a multi-faceted entrepreneur whose business interests ranged from financial public relations, investment management and owning and operating nightlife venues.

Philippe Garner, international director of 20th Century Decorative Art & Photographs, comments: "Steven Greenberg was a pioneer. He appreciated the quality, refinement and historic importance of French Art Deco at a time when the style was just starting to attract wider attention after decades of neglect. The Steven A Greenberg Collection of Art Deco is one of the most distinguished ever assembled. The auction is the most spectacular offering that we have seen in America in recent times. It is an honor to present these remarkable works - largely unseen for so many years."