Discover: Felix & Heidi Stoll Collection Auction Highlights & Details
What secrets do the silent artifacts of the past hold, and how does a collection, meticulously assembled and passed down through generations, whisper tales of forgotten civilizations? The Felix & Heidi Stoll Collection, rooted in Basel and tracing its origins back to acquisitions made before 1993, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of pre-Columbian art, its legacy preserved through familial inheritance.
The echoes of history resonate within the walls of Christie's in Paris, where, on April 9th, 2019, a dedicated auction, showcasing the "Art Prcolombien Collection Felix et Heidi Stoll et a divers amateurs," unfolded. A catalogue detailing the event meticulously outlined the treasures on offer, providing insights into the provenance and artistic significance of each item. The collection itself, primarily originating from Basel, Switzerland, and acquired before 1993, was passed down through the Stoll family line, its ownership transferring to the current proprietor through the bonds of familial lineage. The upcoming sale at Christie's promised a diverse array of artworks, inviting collectors and enthusiasts to explore the rich tapestry of pre-Columbian artistic expressions.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Collection Name | Felix & Heidi Stoll Collection |
| Origin | Basel, Switzerland |
| Acquisition Date | Before 1993 |
| Collection Type | Pre-Columbian Art |
| Auction House | Christie's, Paris |
| Auction Date | April 9th, 2019 |
| Auction Title | Art Prcolombien Collection Felix et Heidi Stoll et a divers amateurs |
| Provenance | Acquired before 1993, passed down through family to current owner |
| Buyer's Premium | Regular buyer's premium plus a 5.5% commission (inclusive of VAT) on the hammer price. |
| VAT Refund | Commission is refunded upon proof of export of the lot outside the country. |
| Key Themes | Pre-Columbian art, family collection, auction, provenance, Basel, Paris, Christie's |
| Contact Information | For further information, contact (+33) (0) 6 07 23 33 60 |
| Related Articles | Christie's Website |
A recurring theme in the details surrounding the sale is the emphasis on the origin and lineage of the collection. Each piece presented bore the imprint of its history, with the phrase "Collection Felix et Heidi Stoll, Ble, acquise avant 1993 transmise par descendance l'actuel propritaire," serving as a constant reminder of the familial dedication behind its preservation. This emphasis on provenance underscores the significance of the collection, highlighting its journey through time and its connection to the Stoll family. This history adds a layer of intrigue to each item, transforming it from a mere object into a tangible link to the past.
The auction at Christie's, Paris, provided a unique opportunity to acquire pieces with such distinguished origins. The auction catalog offered detailed descriptions of the lots, including information on their artistic style, material, and cultural context. One description referenced a "personnage reprsent avec des proportions massives et aplaties, les bras spars du corps, les mains places fermement sur la taille, des traits de visages bien marqus avec une bouche nettement en creux, des arcades sourcilires affirmes et aux oreilles rabattues," a vivid illustration of the artistry and craftsmanship of the pieces on display.
Furthermore, the sale encompassed a variety of pieces, the value determined by the item's cultural significance, its artistic merits, and its condition. The auction house outlined its standard procedures, including the buyer's premium and additional fees, such as a 5.5% commission inclusive of VAT of the hammer price. It also provided assurances regarding the potential refund of the commission to buyers who could prove the export of the lot outside of the country. This policy underscores the global interest in such art, appealing to collectors around the world.
The collection also included pieces with descriptions such as "lment massif en forme de cadenas avec une poigne de prhension en anneau et au primtre vigoureusement sculpt avec des bandes lisses ou des bosses arrondies." These descriptions offer a glimpse into the specific types of objects included, suggesting a range of functional and decorative items that provide insight into the lives of the people who created them.
The sale was also mentioned in various news outlets, with titles such as "Flix & Heidi Stoll Collection goes under hammer at Christie's, Paris," further underscoring the significance of the event. The presence of the collection in the auction house offered a unique opportunity to acquire pieces of history, thereby preserving an invaluable link to the past. The event was more than a simple auction; it represented a confluence of artistic appreciation, historical study, and the continuity of legacy.
The auction process itself adheres to standard industry practices. The collection of artifacts was sold without reserve, as clearly indicated by the statement, "Veuillez noter que ce lot est vendu sans rserve" and "Please note that this lot is sold without reserve." This signals that the artifacts, of historical relevance, could be obtained without a minimum price, making them accessible to a wider range of buyers. Furthermore, details about the financial aspects of the transaction were available, stating that VAT at 5.5% would be applied to the total price. This transparency fosters trust, and supports the sale.
In a parallel note, the origins of certain items from the collection extend further back to the Collection Dietrich Batz, Cassel, in the 1980s. The pieces were later acquired by the Felix and Heidi Stoll collection, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of the provenance. This added detail illustrates the extensive reach of the Stoll's passion for art and their deliberate curatorial choices.
The value of the collection is not only based on its physical attributes but also in the rich narrative of its discovery, acquisition, and continued preservation by the Stoll family. This historical narrative elevates each artifact. It allows the items to transcend mere commercial objects and become tangible embodiments of historical narratives. The pieces, which once belonged to Dietrich Batz, were later added to the Felix and Heidi Stoll collection, and now are again part of the world's artistic heritage.
For those interested in learning more or participating in future auctions, Christie's provides contact information, encouraging further exploration and direct engagement with their specialists. The information provided indicates that the auction included pieces acquired before 1993, acquired by the Stoll's from another known collector. The auction was publicized by #blouinartinfo #blouin #artinfo #flix #heidi #christie #paris adding to its reach and significance.
The Felix & Heidi Stoll Collection, a testament to dedication and familial heritage, offers more than just a glimpse into pre-Columbian artistry; it also provides an opportunity to connect with the cultural heritage and human stories embedded within the very fabric of history. With a meticulous provenance and a clear commitment to transparency, this collection invites connoisseurs and enthusiasts to explore a world of artistic brilliance and historical discovery, thereby preserving a legacy for generations to come.
