The Collection of Chara Schreyer

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A curated selection of extraordinary and eclectic contemporary art, jewelry, and furnishings from the collection of world-renowned collector and philanthropist Chara Schreyer will be at auction at Fine Estate, Inc., of San Rafael on Nov. 19, 2023. Schreyer is revered for her generous spirit and attention to detail - which translated to her skills as a natural matchmaker, storyteller (she spoke three languages), astute observer of life and undisputed visionary and collector of art that often pushed boundaries, provoked thought and united art lovers and novices alike.

Her progressive vision translates to an incredible array of items on auction at Fine Estate, including a breathtaking curation of wearable art: Schreyer’s signature oversize statement pieces handcrafted from precious and everyday materials ranging from silver, gold and steel to rubber, resin and acrylic. Schreyer eschewed old things — but valued that which was timeless. Nearly 200 lots of jewelry will be on auction, epitomizing the breadth of Schreyer’s passion for procuring bold and unusual sculptural pieces that leave a lasting memory and challenge the notion of jewelry as mere accessories.

One of Schreyer’s personal favorites, a carved wood, silver, and gemstone bracelet by Amedeo featuring a crowned monkey motif, is joined by jeweled nesting rings by Elie Top, a steel and 18K rose gold B.zero1 statement ring designed by Anoosh Kapoor for Bulgari, and numerous artisan pieces crafted from blackened silver and mixed metals. Over the years, Schreyer collected high-end jewelry by venerable houses like Lanvin, Balenciaga and Tiffany & Co., along with outstanding pieces created by under-the-radar and up-and-coming contemporary artisan jewelers — many of whom she discovered through local galleries and boutiques. Additionally, much of the jewelry featured in the auction has the distinction of being made by women designers, including Biba Schutz, Sheryl Lowe and Gabriella Kiss.

Other highlights of the auction include Schreyer’s beloved 2014 Aston Martin Rapide S (with only 16,400 miles), and a wide range of artwork and furnishings from the 20th and 21st centuries that exemplify her perpetual curiosity and gravitation toward the unusual, the masterful, and unforgettable conversation pieces. Included are several works by Robert Beck, one of a cadre of artists with whom Schreyer had forged a strong friendship; a painting by Oakland artist Squeak Carnwath; a work in charcoal on vellum by Chloe Piene; Takashi Murakami’s iconic Flowerball; and select mid-century furnishings.

Auction is on Sunday November 19th, at 11am 

Please join us for a champagne reception on Thursday November 16th, 5pm-7pm. RSVP Here

Other preview times are:

Friday November 17th, 11am-4pm

Saturday November 18th, 11am-4pm

Sunday November 19th, 10am-11am

Schedule Phone Consultations


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