Sometimes known as the Madonna of Asia, Anita Mui was a very successful Hong Kong singer and actress with her contributions to cantopop (Cantonese popular) music. She was also a collector of fine and unique jewellery until her premature death in 2003.
| Anita Mui in her prime - Hong Kong, 1997 |
On October 5, Sotheby's completed their sale of her jewellery collection, including some she wore during her poignant final performance in which she 'married the stage'.
All of the 43 lots on offer were sold - many above high estimates - fetching a total of HK$6.8m (US$873,237), more than doubling the pre-sale estimate.
Emotional applause was heard multiple times throughout the sale. The highlight of the auction was a cultured pearl diamond necklace and a matching pair of earrings by Gianmaria Bucellati, acquired by Mui for her future wedding but later on wore in her phenomenal final concert.
These sparked intense competition between two bidders, and eventually sold for HK$1.58m (US$202,564) to a Hong Kong bidder after more than 19 bids.
 Anita Mui's spectacular cultured pearl diamond necklace |
Quek Chin Yeow, Head of Jewellery and Deputy Chairman of Sotheby's Asia, commented after the sale:
"Sotheby's is very honoured to hold the sale of Anita Mui - Jewels and Watches from the Estate, where Mui's fans were able to acquire keepsake mementoes of this legendary diva.
"Many of them paid homage to the exhibition and participated in today's sale, and were emotional about being able to secure wonderful jewels and watches previously treasured by the late diva."
A sapphire, emerald and diamond necklace with ear clips, also by Bucellati, sold for HK$980,000 (US$125,641) trouncing its HK$200,000-300,000 listing.
