The Princess Margaret Collection at Auction

Just when the thought "I could sure use a diamond tiara!" crossed my mind, Christie's Kensington flew to the rescue with its upcoming June 13-14, 2006 auction of jewelry and works of art from the Collection of Her Royal Highness The Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon. HRH (whom, if Cecil Beaton's portraits are to be scrutinized and believed, was quite the sumptuous Babe in Her day) passed away in 2002, and it appears that Her children, David Albert Charles, Lord Linley (who sits on the board of Christie's Directors), and Lady Sarah Frances Elizabeth Chatto have some stiff Death Duties with which to contend. Hence the June auction of art, jewelry and objects of vertu, including Fabergé items, canvases and a nifty 9 ct. gold gem set cigarette case by Cartier signed by King George VI (1895-1952).

Although it is the first time in history that the private jewelry collection of the sister of a reigning monarch is offered for sale, it must be specified that the jewelry offered is neither part of the Crown Jewels nor part of the Royal Collection. With estimates on some 800 items ranging from under £100 to over £500,000, there should be something for at least 800 Everyones. Of personal interest will be the going price for HRH The Princess Margaret's 1957 portrait by Pietro Annigoni (see accompanying image). It is the one lot in the entire auction that has no reserve set. Annigoni's current auction record is a measly £33,000; safe to say that a new high will be set in June. (Gee whiz. On second thought, scratch the tiara thing. I'd happily settle for being a descendant of James Christie.)