Collecting and Collections
The Art is in the Detail  

A Unique Afternoon Tea Presentation and Encounter with Christie’s Leading Experts 

Join us for the Art is in the Detail Afternoon Tea with Christie’s on Thursday, October 10, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the world of art collecting and the nuances of building collections. This discussion, hosted in at the Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del Mar, brings together Christie’s experts and enthusiasts to explore the intricacies of collecting, from identifying valuable pieces to understanding the stories behind them.   

About Christie’s:
Founded in 1766, Christie’s is a world-leading art and luxury business known for expert live and online auctions, private sales, and a wide range of global services, including art appraisal and financing. With auctions spanning over 80 categories, from $500 to over $100 million, Christie’s holds world records, including the highest auction price for an artwork. The company also pioneered an on-chain auction platform for NFT art and supports innovative art market startups through an investment fund. Christie’s is dedicated to promoting responsible culture globally. 

Thursday, October 10 | Grand Del Mar Lobby Lounge
2:00 pm | Afternoon Tea
2:30 pm | Christie’s presentation and Q&A 

Speakers:
Brian Matthew Evans, VP and Senior Account Manager
Max Brownawell, VP, Head of Department and Specialist for Handbags & Accessories
Eleanor Walper, AVP and Specialist in Christie’s Jewelry Department

$89 per person (plus tax and gratuity)
Reservations required

More about the speakers:

Max Brownawell, VP, Head of Department and Specialist for Handbags & Accessories, has a rich background at renowned auction houses and has established himself as a leading authority in the handbag auction market. His contributions to the field have not only elevated the profile of luxury handbag auctions but have also enriched the broader conversation around luxury goods and collectibles. He is a frequent speaker on the evolution of the luxury handbag space, and his insights are sought after by top-tier publications in the fashion and financial sectors. At Christie’s, Max continues to redefine what it means to be at the forefront of the luxury handbag and auction industry, bringing fresh perspectives and unparalleled expertise to collectors worldwide. He will explore the history and variety of leathers and other materials used at Hermès over the past century and how it impacts and informs the market for handbags and accessories today. 

Eleanor Walper, AVP and Specialist in Christie’s Jewelry Department, is a Graduate Gemologist (GG) and Certified Appraiser and is responsible for securing notable jewelry consignments and developing client relationships across the West Coast region. With over ten years of experience in the jewelry industry, she has worked in many facets of the business, supporting high profile clients in both building out and selling their collections via auction. Most recently she assisted in the sales of the estates of Ann Getty, Anne Eisenhower and Fritz & Lucy Jewett. Eleanor will share a peek into the world of jewelry auctions at Christie’s, telling guests more about the services provided and the process, in addition to the current state of the market – how it’s doing, what pieces sell well, how to grow your collection and how to buy jewels that hold their value.