Mark Birley's articles go on sale in London

KOLKATA: Crowds gathered at Sotheby's London on March 21 to buy their own piece of the lifestyle of one of the twentieth century's most stylish men, Mark Birley (1930-2007). The contents of Thurloe Lodge, the London home of the renowned arbiter of taste and feted club owner doubled pre-sale expectations to sell for the combined total of £3,854,619, (estimate £1,258,040-1,840,770).

With his refined sense of style and unerring eye for detail, Mark Birley furnished Thurloe Lodge as the ultimate bachelor's residence and gentleman's home. Over 850 clients registered to bid for the collection, and with fierce competition both in the auction room and on the phone, over 85% of the 496 lots sold exceeded their high estimates, according to an email statement from Sotheby's.

Henry Wyndham, chairman of Sotheby's Europe commented in the statement: ""The enthusiasm with which people from all corners of the globe descended on Sotheby's to try and obtain their own bit of Mark Birley magic, pays a most fitting tribute to his distinguished career and enviable talents. Mark's style and way of life has an appeal which has resonated not just in London and among the clientele of his famed clubs, but also with people who may not have known him but are nonetheless inspired by his timeless elegance.""