Freddie Mercury’s Piano Sells for $2.2 Million at Sotheby’s Auction
In a thrilling auction that saw bidders from around the world compete fiercely, Freddie Mercury’s prized Yamaha G2 baby grand piano sold for a staggering $2.2 million. The piano, on which the iconic song “Bohemian Rhapsody” was composed, took six minutes to sell, appropriately reflecting the length of the Queen hit.
Sotheby’s auction of items from Mercury’s personal collection drew massive attention and anticipation, with more than a few bidding paddles raised in the London salesroom and a flurry of online and phone bids. The sale, held on Wednesday, showcased about 1,400 items from the charismatic lead singer’s collection, making it a must-see event for fans and collectors alike.
The piano, originally estimated to fetch at least $2.5 million, was the highlight of the evening auction. Mercury composed many of Queen’s hits on the Yamaha, and its significance as a piece of music history was not lost on the enthusiastic bidders.
Mary Austin, Mercury’s lifelong friend, offered the collection for sale, as per the singer’s wishes. Less high-profile items from the collection will be sold at two further live sales this week, as well as in three online auctions running until September 13th.
The exhibition of Mercury’s collection in London attracted over 140,000 visitors, with queues stretching for miles at times. Fans were eager to catch a glimpse of the singer’s eclectic treasures, ranging from handwritten lyrics and stage costumes to artwork and furniture.
A highlight among the collection’s items was a draft of the lyrics for “Bohemian Rhapsody,” estimated to fetch at least $1 million. The historic manuscript sold for $1.7 million, accompanied by rapturous applause from the audience.
The auction showcased Mercury’s diverse tastes as a collector, with an array of Western and Japanese art, luxurious furnishings, and even feline-related ornaments, paying homage to his love of cats. And while some pieces may have been considered kitsch by art professionals, their connection to Mercury proved invaluable, with prices soaring beyond expectations.
The successful sale of the entire collection, which netted $15.4 million against a presale low estimate of $6 million, signifies the enduring legacy of Freddie Mercury and the lasting impact of his music. It also honors the singer’s wishes, as Mary Austin ensured the auction was conducted in a way she believed Mercury would have loved.
As fans and collectors eagerly await the remaining sales, the auction serves as a poignant reminder of the incredible talent and lasting influence of Freddie Mercury and the legendary band Queen.