Sotheby’s will present an extensive collection of artworks from the late Aso O. Tavitian, a Bulgarian-American philanthropist, during its Master Week series this February. The auction will include Old Master paintings, sculptures, and decorative pieces, projected to bring in over $14 million for Tavitian’s foundation.
Notable items include Portrait of Margaret of Austria (ca. 1495) by Master of the Magdalene Legend, with a valuation of $1.5 to $2 million, Madonna and Child (ca. 1620) by Daniele Crespi, estimated at $600,000–$800,000, and a circa-1520 Italian marble bust of Penelope, expected to surpass $200,000.
George Wachter, Sotheby’s co-head of Old Master paintings, who assisted Tavitian with art acquisitions, recounted, “I called Aso, and I said, ‘This is something that I think you’re going to like.’ And then he saw it, and he loved it, and he bought it.” This unique collaboration helped build Tavitian’s impressive collection.
Recently, Tavitian’s foundation contributed hundreds of artworks and $45 million to the Clark Art Institute, which plans to open a dedicated wing in 2027-28. The foundation worked closely with the Clark to select items for donation, according to foundation president Candace Beinecke, who said, “It was really a dialogue with the curators, and their judgment was the most important factor.”
Art consultant Etienne Bréton and Tavitian’s wife Isabella Meisinger were also involved, focusing on strategic selections. In line with Tavitian’s inclusive vision, Sotheby’s will offer decorative arts and English furniture at accessible prices, with some items below $10,000, making them appealing to new collectors.
Wachter noted that Old Masters are gaining attention among collectors seeking high-quality pieces at modest prices. He observed that many buyers at Sotheby’s recent Old Master sale were new collectors, highlighting the appeal of this timeless art category across generations.