Tony Bennett may have left his heart in San Francisco, but his artistic eye loved the Big Apple.
The late superstar’s watercolor paintings of Central Park and sketches of the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building are among a trove of treasures expected to fetch thousands of dollars at an April 18-19 auction. .
Based in Beverly Hills Julien’s Auctions is holding a sale on “Tony Bennett: A Life Well Lived.” —Online and live at Lincoln Center’s Ertegun Jazz Hall of Fame.
on blue paper. The dramatic painting features an American flag.
As an artist, Bennett’s “impressionist oil and watercolor paintings often depict natural environments, such as Central Park, which he overlooks from his studio,” the Post reported in 2011.
Queens native Anthony Dominic Benedetto takes a close-up view of Central Park in a 2000 12-by-15-inch watercolor painting. His pre-sale price was $800, but bids have already reached $1,250.
The bidding price for the 12-by-9 gray paper depicting the majestic Empire State Building is $800.
The “Rags to Riches” singer also sketched the stunning Art Deco Chrysler Building on blue paper. The dramatic painting features an American flag.
Bidding for 12×9 is up to $700.
Bennett sketched and painted every day and exhibited his work in numerous galleries around the world.
He was selected as the official artist for the 2001 Kentucky Derby and was commissioned by the United Nations to create two paintings, including a 50th anniversary piece.
best advance price [$20,000 to $30,000] The pile of memorabilia includes a heartfelt thank you from Martin Luther King Jr. for Bennett’s performance during the 1965 Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, civil rights march.
“From Sinatra to DiMaggio to views of Central Park, this auction represents all the people and places Tony Bennett loved most about his life and his hometown of New York,” said David Goodman, CEO of Juliens. . “New York was his muse that inspired his music and art, especially his artwork, much of which was created in his home studio,” he added.
The legendary pop, jazz and big band vocalist, who won 20 Grammy Awards, passed away on July 21 after a seven-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
He was 96 years old.
Danny Bennett, Tony’s son and longtime manager, said, “In a collection like this, we not only represent Tony’s remarkable life, but also embody a part of our shared American history.” It’s amazing to have the opportunity to see all the items that are on display.” in a statement announcing the sale. “While his musical legacy is unparalleled and will continue to be important, his lifelong active engagement influenced so many people and events. He did everything with compassion, compassion and integrity, which is a testament to the extraordinary person he was every day.”
