Sir Howard Hodgkin, Ivy, 1990 (est. £6,000-8,000)

The internationally renowned London Restaurant, The Ivy, has witnessed countless celebrity moments from Harold Pinter to the Beckhams, from Kate Moss to Tom Cruise, those are just a few of the famous names associated with the iconic establishment. And you can now own a part of its history, as Sotheby’s announces the auction of the contents of The Ivy on 25th March as part of its Made in Britain sale. In a similar auction to that of Sotheby’s Mark Birley collection, items from each of the dining rooms and the VIP areas of the restaurant, which have acquired legendary status thanks to the famous diners who have frequented the restaurant, will be sold to benefit the charity .

This is all made possible due to the fact that The Ivy is closing for a major refurbishment from January until May, and owner Richard Caring wishes to share some of the iconic art and memorabilia from the restaurant with those that have been a part of its history. He commented, “I want the legend of The Ivy to live on, and now that we are making some contemporary amendments I thought it would be a good opportunity to offer people the chance to own some of its history. I’ve often had people tell me that they wish they could buy some of our pieces and furniture and now they can”.

The Ivy has also been known for the art that has long adorned the restaurants walls, with art and the artists playing a significant role in the life of the restaurant. Some of Britain’s most celebrated artists can be found in The Ivy, with works by the likes of Sir Peter Blake, Howard Hodgkin and Joe Tilson with a number of works on sale at the auction. Dining at The Ivy has always been just as much about the experience as it has the food, with meticulous detail paid to the décor, service and ambience. With that said it is no surprise that the iconic furniture and tableware from the restaurant will also be some of the most sought after lots in the auction. Some of the lots included will feature three pairs of champagne buckets on stands by Future Systems, circa 1990, estimated at £100-150 each, and two shakers, 20th century, estimated at £80-100. With such renowned international status and for such a great cause, the auction is sure to be a success.

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