The art world mourned the loss of a titan on May 11, 2024, with the passing of David Redden, a legendary auctioneer who spent over four decades at Sotheby’s. Redden, 75, succumbed to complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a disease he battled bravely for nine years.

Redden’s career was a masterclass in the art of the auction. With a booming voice and an unmatched charisma, he captivated audiences and commanded top dollar for some of history’s most prized possessions. From the Magna Carta to the founding rules of basketball, from Earth’s first spaceship to Sue the T-Rex skeleton, Redden’s gavel witnessed the transfer of ownership of iconic objects.

A Life Dedicated to Auctions

Born in 1949, Redden’s trajectory towards the auctioneer’s podium wasn’t immediately apparent. However, his natural eloquence and passion for history proved to be the perfect ingredients for his future success. He joined Sotheby’s in the mid-1970s and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a vice chairman and one of the company’s longest-serving auctioneers.

Redden’s expertise wasn’t limited to a single category. He possessed a remarkable ability to navigate the intricacies of diverse collections, from fine art and antiques to historical documents and scientific artifacts. His vast knowledge and storytelling prowess instilled confidence in bidders and transformed auctions into captivating events.

A Legacy Beyond the Gavel

Redden’s influence extended far beyond the confines of the auction room. He was a passionate advocate for art preservation and education. He actively chaired the boards of several American and British organizations dedicated to these causes, ensuring that future generations could appreciate the artistic and historical treasures he brought to life during his auctions.

Redden’s battle with ALS cast a shadow over his later years. The disease stole his ability to speak, a cruel twist of fate for a man whose voice had been his most potent tool. Despite the limitations, Redden’s spirit remained unbroken. He continued to follow the art world with keen interest and even donated his extensive archive, including a million-word diary, to the Getty Research Institute in 2022.

Tributes Pour In for the Auction Maestro

The news of Redden’s passing sent shockwaves through the art community. Tributes poured in from colleagues, friends, and admirers around the globe.

Benjamin Doller, current chairman of Sotheby’s, stated, “For someone like David to suffer from ALS was the worst, because he was an orator. He loved to speak.” Doller went on to praise Redden’s unmatched knowledge and the way he “brought history to life” during auctions.

Fellow auctioneer Diana Brooks described Redden as a “giant in the field,” someone who “set the standard for excellence.” Countless others echoed these sentiments, highlighting Redden’s professionalism, wit, and genuine love for the art and stories behind the objects he auctioned.

David Redden: More Than Just an Auctioneer

David Redden’s legacy extends far beyond the millions of dollars he generated through his gavel. He was a showman, an educator, and a passionate custodian of history. He possessed an uncanny ability to connect with audiences, transforming auctions into thrilling spectacles that fueled the public’s fascination with the art world.

Redden’s absence will be deeply felt, but his influence will continue to inspire future generations of auctioneers and art enthusiasts. He leaves behind a treasure trove of memories, a testament to a life dedicated to the art of the auction and the preservation of our cultural heritage.