In a musical crescendo that rivaled the iconic tunes he left behind, Freddie Mercury‘s personal collection took center stage at a Sotheby’s auction in London. The charismatic lead singer of Queen, known for his electrifying performances and timeless hits, left behind not only a legacy of music but also a treasure trove of art, furniture, and memorabilia. This extraordinary event showcased the enigmatic artist’s diverse tastes, from Japanese woodblock prints to lavish knickknacks and even a menagerie of feline-themed ornaments.
The star of the show was undoubtedly Freddie Mercury’s 1973 Yamaha G2 baby grand piano, the very instrument on which the masterpiece “Bohemian Rhapsody” was composed. With an initial bid of £40,000, the auction room quickly transformed into a frenzy of excitement. After an exhilarating six-minute bidding war, the gavel finally came down at an astonishing $2.2 million, perfectly mirroring the length of Queen’s legendary ballad.
READ MORE: A24’s ‘Zone of Interest’ Screening Unveils Hollywood Elite Amidst Oscar Race and Strikes
Mercury’s Yamaha piano was more than just an instrument; it was a part of music history. It was here that he composed many of Queen’s iconic hits, making it a cherished artifact for fans worldwide. Originally estimated at $2.5 million, its final price was no less than a testament to the enduring power of Mercury’s music.
Lyric enthusiasts were treated to a rare glimpse into the creative process as well. A handwritten draft of “Bohemian Rhapsody” lyrics, with a playful alternative title, “Mongolian Rhapsody,” fetched a staggering $1.7 million. These lyrical manuscripts offered a window into the mind of a musical genius and were highly sought after by collectors.
The auction, unlike typical art sales, featured an enthusiastic audience largely unacquainted with auction etiquette. Every lot received thunderous applause, reflecting the deep emotional connection fans had with Mercury and his possessions. From a graffiti-covered door to a Fabergé gold-mounted agate vesta case, these items transcended their intrinsic value due to their association with the legendary performer.
Mercury’s eclectic tastes were on full display, with a blend of Western and Japanese art and furnishings. Having toured Japan extensively with Queen, Mercury became a discerning collector of Japanese woodblock prints, lacquerware, and kimonos. Approximately 20 percent of the auction’s lots were related to Japan, showcasing the singer’s deep appreciation for the country’s culture.
The evening concluded with a grand total of $15.4 million, surpassing the presale estimate of $6 million. The auction was a testament to the enduring popularity of Freddie Mercury and the Queen legacy. Collectors, fans, and first-time auction attendees came together to celebrate the life and artistry of one of rock music’s most iconic figures.
As fans like Becca Robbins bid on pieces of Mercury’s history, they weren’t just purchasing items; they were acquiring a tangible connection to a music legend. With a rainbow-colored satin appliqué jacket worn by Mercury during Queen’s “Hot Space” tour selling for $256,499, Robbins summed up the sentiment perfectly: “I owned it for a nanosecond, but I took something from the exhibition that you can’t put a price on.”
In the end, the auction was more than a sale of memorabilia; it was a celebration of Freddie Mercury’s enduring impact on music, art, and the hearts of fans around the world.