The Mullin Collection Auctioned by Bonhams - Paying Tribute to Bugatti

The Mullin Collection Auctioned by Bonhams - Paying Tribute to Bugatti, a Family of Artists

Bugatti is a name synonymous with beauty and craftsmanship, deeply rooted in the creative vision of Ettore Bugatti, inspired by the artistic brilliance of his family. Ettore's father, Carlo, was a distinguished furniture designer, while his brother, Rembrandt, was a renowned sculptor. Both left an indelible mark on the world of art, just as Ettore's cars have in the automotive industry. On July 24th, the prestigious Mullin Collection, comprising some of the finest works by the Bugatti family, is set to be auctioned by Bonhams.

The late Peter Mullin, an influential American businessman and philanthropist, had a profound fascination with Bugatti. Known affectionately as 'Mr. BUGATTI in America,' Mullin amassed one of the world's most significant Bugatti collections. His passion for the marque led him to share these exceptional vehicles with other enthusiasts, founding the Mullin Automotive Museum in 2010, showcasing French marques like Bugatti.

Mullin's vision extended beyond automobiles. He sought to honor the artistic lineage of the Bugatti family, resulting in a remarkable collection of precious works by Carlo and Rembrandt Bugatti. The upcoming auction includes the largest-ever sale of furniture crafted by Carlo Bugatti, select sculptures by Rembrandt, and notable Art Nouveau and Art Deco pieces. This extraordinary portfolio pays tribute to the rich heritage and unparalleled craftsmanship of the Bugatti name.

Carlo Bugatti (1856-1940) was renowned for his innovative designs, blending organic shapes with Orientalist and Gothic motifs. His masterpieces, celebrated in museums worldwide, fueled Mullin's passion and continue to influence modern designers. The auction will feature Carlo's intricately crafted chairs, desks, tables, and display cabinets, integrating trademark materials like wood, silk, vellum, and copper.

One notable piece is Carlo Bugatti's Mirrored Hall Tree, circa 1888. Estimated to sell for $20,000 to $30,000, this hall tree exemplifies Carlo's craftsmanship with walnut, ebonized wood, cork, bone, hammered copper, inlaid pewter, and mirrored glass. Just as modern Bugatti cars pioneer distinctive materials and intricate designs, this furniture piece mirrors that elegance.

Complementing Carlo's works are several sculptures by Rembrandt Bugatti (1884-1916), Ettore's brother and a significant early 20th-century sculptor. Rembrandt, an animal lover, gained fame for his dynamic bronze sculptures depicting exotic animals, like the 'Dancing Elephant.' This motif became a radiator cap for the Bugatti Type 41 'Royale,' a tribute from Ettore to his beloved brother. Rembrandt's sculptures, imbued with rich provenance, are highly coveted by collectors.

One standout piece is the 'Petite Panthère Assise,' a bronze sculpture with a dark brown patina, conceived around 1912 and cast by the A.A. Hébrard foundry. This exquisite work is signed, numbered, and marked with the foundry's stamp, estimated to sell for $150,000 to $250,000.

The auction also includes a core component of Ettore Bugatti's work: a Type 52 Bugatti ‘Baby’ car from 1927. Originally designed for Ettore’s son as a replica of the Bugatti Type 35 Grand Prix car, this meticulously restored example features a 12-volt electric motor and is finished in Bugatti blue with a red leather interior.

Bugatti enthusiasts can also bid on a motoring trunk once owned by Ettore Bugatti. Constructed from leather and impregnated canvas over a wicker frame with reinforced leather corners, it is stamped with the iconic 'EB' initials and the Bugatti logo on the leather lid trim.

The auction extends beyond the Bugatti family, honoring their peers like celebrated French designer René Lalique (1860-1945), who held a personal and professional connection with Ettore and Rembrandt. Lalique and Bugatti developed a prestigious venue, the Clos Saint Odile, to host the elite of their time. The Bonhams sale includes over 30 pieces of beautiful glass sculptures by Lalique, showcasing the elegance and artistry of the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements.

Peter Mullin’s collection is a fitting tribute to the Bugatti family's legacy, reflecting their story and the flair that infused the brand from 1909 to the present day. Bonhams' unique auction is an homage to Bugatti's timeless legacy, celebrating the talent of a treasured family of artists and their unmistakable influence on Ettore and Jean Bugatti’s automobiles, which still resonate in the brand today.

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