August 1st, 2013 
Kate Moss by Albert Watson 1993 © CHRISTIE’S IMAGES LTD.
Get your auction paddles ready! This fall, fashion’s ultimate muse is under the hammer and up for grabs at the legendary auction house, Christie’s in London.
When I was little, I remember flipping through fashion magazines and cutting out pictures of Kate Moss (okay, I’ll admit it, I still do) and thinking I want to be like that when I grow up…and apparently I’m not alone.
Kate Moss by Sante D’Orazio 1995
© CHRISTIE’S IMAGES LTD.
Kate has been a star since she was discovered as a teenager at JFK airport in the late 80’s. In contrast to the curvaceous supermodels of the time, like Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell and Claudia Schiffer, her waif-like looks turned heads and took the fashion industry by storm.
Few people have been photographed more than Moss. There’s just something about her that resonates with the public and fashion industry. From her effortless way of combining Portobello Road vintage finds with designer pieces to her hip London vibe, she’s the epitome of cool. As one of the most copied women today and having launched hundreds of fads it appears everything she’s photographed in becomes an instant must-have. Hailed by Vogue as “relentlessly captivating,” “ elusively glamorous,” and “iconic.” It seems only fitting that the theme for the auction be called The Greatest Icon of Style of the Modern Age, Kate Moss.
Kate Moss by Mario Testino 1993
© CHRISTIE’S IMAGES LTD.
The collection curated by prominent art collector Gert Elfering, features more than 50 remarkable pieces. “Kate is the ultimate modern muse and we will be seeing her images in major museums and private collections for years to come,” Elfering said. Given her oeuvre it’s no surprise that photographs shot by a diverse group of renowned artists dominate the collection. Some of the artists featured include Allen Jones, Annie Liebovitz, Craig McDean, Irving Penn, Mario Sorrenti, Juergen Teller, Mario Testino, Ellen Von Unwerth and Albert Watson.
Kate Moss ‘She’s Light’ holographic laser by Chris Levine in callaboration with Charlotte Tilbury 2013
(photo Credit: Chris Levine)
She’s not just a pretty face. Aside from modeling, Moss is a mother, has been involved with numerous fashion collaborations and is a supporter of several charities. Kate believes that by getting involved in charitable causes she is able to help a wider variety and number of people. From Breakthrough Breast Cancer to supporting Cancer Research UK she has said “I am happy to give my support to help fund crucial research, as so many lives are affected by this terrible disease” In 2006 she launched the Sam and Ruby Rose Charity to provide funding for the education and shelter of Thai children affected by the tsunami. For several years she also has regularly supported the Elton John AIDS Foundation and Comic Relief, a nonprofit which strives to create a world free from poverty.
Kate Moss by Glen Lunchford 1994
© CHRISTIE’S IMAGES LTD.
In a business with a short attention span and always looking for the next big thing, Kate not only has held a steady presence but remains among the world’s most famous and best-paid models in history. I think her success goes beyond her looks and has much more to do with her unique style and attitude. Elfering said it best; “She has altered perceptions for women across the globe, encouraging them towards greater individuality and expressive freedom. There is so much you can learn from Kate – how you should always remain true to yourself, develop your own style, and emphasize your individuality.”
WHEN: Public viewing September 21st – 24th & sale September 25th
WHERE:
Christie’s London
8 King Street, St. James’s
London SW1Y 6QT
Tel: +44 (0)20 7839 9060