Key points
Sale: May 12, 2025 at Christie's New York
Collection of Anne & Sid Bass, major figures in artistic patronage
Iconic modernist house designed by Paul Rudolph
Key works by Rothko, Calder, Stella, Kelly, Martin
A historic sale of major post-war works in an architectural masterpiece
On May 12, 2025, Christie's New York will present Art from the Bass House , a unique auction featuring one of the most important private collections of post-war and contemporary art ever presented on the market. Comprised of philanthropists Anne and Sid Bass, this collection is intimately linked to their celebrated Fort Worth residence, a jewel of modernist architecture designed by Paul Rudolph.
Designed to magnify monumental art, the Bass House—with its 1,700 square meters of naturally lit space and bold lines—served as a showcase for major works by Mark Rothko, Ellsworth Kelly, Frank Stella, Alexander Calder, Agnes Martin, and others. Highlights include Rothko's 1951 No. 4 (Two Dominants) , as well as a rare Calder mobile ( Gypsophila ) and Stella's monumental Itata .
This sale follows the resounding success of The Collection of Anne H. Bass , which sold for over $363 million at Christie's in 2022. It once again demonstrates the exceptional artistic vision of the Bass couple, who combined aesthetic rigor, philanthropic commitment, and a love of architecture. Their home, conceived as a total work of art, was designed with the help of landscape architects Russell Page and Robert Zion, in a perfect harmony between nature, architecture, and art.
FAQ
What is the Art from the Bass House sale?
A monographic sale organized by Christie's, dedicated to the collection of post-war and contemporary art of Anne and Sid Bass, presented in their modernist home in Fort Worth.
When and where will the sale take place?
May 12, 2025, at Christie's in New York.
Who are Anne and Sid Bass?
An American philanthropist and collector couple known for their support of the arts, dance, and the environment, as well as their refined taste in modern art and architecture.
What works will be offered?
Major pieces by Mark Rothko, Frank Stella, Alexander Calder, Agnes Martin, Ellsworth Kelly, Gino Severini and other great names of the post-war period.
Why is this sale important?
It offers a rare opportunity to acquire museum-caliber works from an iconic collection, within a coherent ensemble combining art, architecture and personal vision.
Nicolas Sarazin
| ArtMajeur Magazine