Valued readers, today we explore the life and times of David Redden, a prominent figure in the world of auctions known for his work with some of the most extraordinary objects. Extracted from a piece by the New York Times, we delve into Redden’s unique career, his startling discoveries, and his indelible mark on the auction industry.
The journey of David Redden
David Redden’s journey to becoming the vice chairman of Sotheby’s is nothing short of remarkable. His love for extraordinary items began at an early age. He spent his childhood in the museums of New York, cultivating a deep interest in history and objects that embody it. His fascination was such that he would spend hours in a museum and then promptly proceed to another, feeding his curiosity.
His career at the auction house started in 1974, and he quickly rose up the ranks. He got his first major break selling the Duchess of Windsor’s jewels, leading to a sale that raked in $50 million, a record at that time. His finesse and knack for presenting the article’s history played a crucial part in closing such high-value deals.
Notable items auctioned by Redden
Among the plethora of items that Redden auctioned, few gained as much prominence as the gems from outer space and a historical document founding a nation. The 1,600-year-old Incan artifact found in a dredged lake, a seventy-pound meteorite, and a $300,000 valued dinosaur tail became some of the most glorious stories of Redden’s era.
One of his most notable sales was the Bay Psalm Book, owned by the Old South Church, which sold for a staggering $14.2 million in 2013. The rare book was one of the earliest known printed in America and held historical importance.
However, Redden’s ability to create a story revolving around the objects and their journey through history is what truly set him apart. History, after all, is more than facts and dates; it’s about the emotional connect and the anecdotes that accompany these objects. This unique storytelling ability turned average auctions into fascinating explorations of the past.
His unique approach to auctions, his knack for discovering the extraordinary, and his love for history made him one of the most noteworthy figures in the auction industry. His legacy will continue to inspire many to view objects not just for their material value but for the history and anecdotes they bring along.
As we remember David Redden and his extraordinary career, one may reflect on the intricate dance of art, history, and commerce that he so skilfully navigated. In his own words, “In this great parade of humanity, you’re just choosing things as they flow by that you think are fascinating.” His narrative, his explorations, have blessed us all with a deeper perspective on how objects, no matter how small or large, carry forward the legacy of our shared human history.
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