Midas’ Touch: The Fascinating Tale of the Gold Ferrari Car

This veritable piece of Ferrari’s history in gilded splendour comes at a handsome price.


Ferraris have always been a cut above the rest in the luxury automobile world. However, this gold-bathed 1977 Ferrari 512 BB is an arresting head-turner, bound to entice and bewitch anyone who lays eyes on it.&nbsp; 
 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/The%20Fascinating%20Tale%20of%20the%20Gold%20Ferrari%20Car-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1067" alt="Midas’ Touch: The Fascinating Tale of the Gold Ferrari Car"> 
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<h2>History</h2> 
<h3>Pre 512 BB</h3> 
Long before the 512 BB Ferrari could be transformed into an aureate wonder, the brand was at a crucial juncture.&nbsp; 
It was the mid-50s, and Ferrari’s status as the racing top dog was diminishing drastically due to new mid-engine cars. Thus, Enzo Ferrari was finally persuaded to venture into something he had always been highly sceptical of – making mid-engined cars. After a few successful stints of creating mid-engined sports cars, the brand pivoted towards making mid-engined road cars, spawning the 365 GTB/4 Daytona and the 365 GTC/4. 
In 1971, Ferrari engineers led by Dr. Ing. Angelo Bellei began working on the successor of GTB/4 and GTC/4, the 365 GT4 Berlinetta Boxer (BB). This car brought about a significant change in Ferrari's engine DNA, featuring a longitudinally positioned mid-mounted flat-12 engine. This new arrangement heralded the end of Ferrari’s high-performance car blueprint of the front-engined design. 
With novelty in its veins, the new 365 GT4 BB was stylised with the tried and tested facade of the Dino 206/246 and the Scuderia Ferrari – a sleek, compact tubular steel chassis frame. Its unique bodywork, which came to be known as the “Boxer Paint Finish,” was characterised by duo-toned hues, with the top half of the car lathered in matte shades of red or yellow and the bottom half in satin black. 
The scarlet-hued 365 GT4 BB was unveiled at the Turin Motor Show in 1971. 
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/ferrari-luxury-cars/" rel="noopener">Most Iconic Ferraris</a> 
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<h3>512 BB’s Rise</h3> 
In 1976, the 365 GT4 BB was followed by the 512 BB. The name is a nod to its five-litre, 12-cylinder engine design. A few subtle changes were incorporated into the 512 BB, making it more palatable to the masses. With a bigger and greater cubic capacity, the 512 BB was a more driveable car.&nbsp; 
512 BB’s 335 HP engine can propel the car from 0-400-metres in 13 seconds and is capable of achieving a top speed of 302 km/hr. 
Only 929 units were produced at the time, albeit the car represented a seismic shift in the marque’s engineering. It was unveiled at the Paris Show in 1976. 
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/the-evolution-of-luxury-cars-design-and-capability/" rel="noopener">Evolution Performance Cars</a> 
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<h2>The Golden Era</h2> 
Ferraris are renowned for their vivacious and experimental colour palettes. However, a handful of the 512 BBs created history, as they were decked out in one of the world's rarest shades. 
Four of the 929 1977 512 BBs donned a unique, metallic gold shade known as the Oro Chiaro Metallizzato. The interiors featured sumptuous Testa di Moro brown leather. As such, this select fleet was indeed the ultimate lap of luxury. 
One such unit (chassis number 21881) was sold through Maranello Piemont S.r.l. of Milano to a company in Italy, where it remained under the care of three unnamed private owners in Turin. Years into its new life, this golden 1977 512 BB was repainted red and beige, concealing its inimitable colour scheme. 
This car was purchased by another anonymous buyer in 1997. Over 18 years later, the car was recognised as one of the world’s rarest, bona fide gold Ferraris. It was restored to its heyday glory in Modena, with its enchanting gold finish and luxuriant Testa di Moro brown leather trimmings. Every inch of the car, including the mechanical bits and bobs, was overhauled to its original state. 
It was acquired by UK Sotheby’s in 2018 and was incorporated into the London Midas Touch auction, an event curated to celebrate the evergreen metal through the ages. This auction was one of a kind on many fronts, with the golden 512 BB stealing most of the spotlight. Steeped in awe-inspiring luxury, rich history, and opulent wealth, the Golden 512 BB was one of the most aspirational exhibits at the auction. 
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/porsche-most-expensive-car/" rel="noopener">The Most Expensive Porsche Car</a> 
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<h2>The First of its Kind?</h2> 
Although incredibly rare, the 512 BB isn’t the only <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/gold-ferrari-car-price/" rel="noopener">golden Ferrari</a> out there. In 2014, a flashy gold-vinyl 458 Ferrari Spyder was spotted in the affluent boroughs of London, sparking media interest and public intrigue. 
This ritzy ride belongs to Riyadh Al-Azzawi, a world kickboxing maestro. This Spyder, powered with a 4.5-litre V8 engine, boasts a top speed of 199 mph. While a standard 458 Spyder is worth at least about $248,000, Al-Azzawi’s gold makeover set him back an additional $5,143.&nbsp; 
These glamorous wheels still do the rounds in London, luring in curious bystanders and eager tourists with selfie sticks. Needless to say, Riyadh Al-Azzawi succeeded in making a grandiose statement with his rare beauty. 
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-rolls-royce-cars/" rel="noopener">Expensive Rolls Royce</a> 
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<h2>Price</h2> 
At present, a standard vintage 512 BB is considered a collectible worth $313,854.&nbsp; 
However, the golden 1977 512 BB Ferrari is valued at £350,000–450,000 by RM Sotheby’s. While it was part of the 2018 Midas Touch auction, it is yet to be claimed. 
Ferraris are unapologetically exclusive, with a legacy of peerless craftsmanship and an impressive racing pedigree. They are undoubtedly commanding status symbols in their own right, but why not take it to the next level? The gold Ferrari presents an unmissable opportunity for you to set yourself apart from even the cream of the collector crop – all you need to do is take the first step. 
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Ferraris have always been a cut above the rest in the luxury automobile world. However, this gold-bathed 1977 Ferrari 512 BB is an arresting head-turner, bound to entice and bewitch anyone who lays eyes on it.&nbsp;

Aristocratic Elegance: The Best Modern Castle Houses in the UK

Discover the best modern castle houses in the UK, blending aristocratic elegance with contemporary luxury in stunning countryside settings.

In spite of the colonial mayhem in Europe, mediaeval Britain’s way of life is full of intrigue. The country’s cultural-looking glass inspires awe, for regal splendour shines through radiantly. Further, with Downton Abbey, Bridgerton, and The Crown garnering ardent fanbases, there’s been a heightened romanticisation of British aristocracy.&nbsp; 
 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Best%20Modern%20Castle%20Houses-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="914" alt="Aristocratic Elegance: The Best Modern Castle Houses in the UK"> 
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The quiet decadence of Britain’s bygone has been beautifully preserved and nurtured by sundry castle estates and stately homes in the countryside. Though restored to appeal to modern fancies, you’re bound to hear in these houses, distant clicks of tea cups, tightening of corsets, and hushed voices trading juicy gossip. 
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Read on to unveil five of the best modern castle houses in the UK. 
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<h2>Denham Place, Denham, Buckinghamshire</h2> 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Denham%20Place-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" alt="Denham Place, Denham, Buckinghamshire"> 
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Denham Place is a Grade I-listed country house in Buckinghamshire, enveloped by a Grade II-listed 43-acre parkland and complete with 12 reception rooms, 12-bedroom suites, and 14 bathrooms. The estate also borders an 18-hole championship golf course. 
Steeped in history, the estate dates back to 1688 and was commissioned by Whig politician Sir Roger Hill. It used to nestle amidst formal gardens with lakes and sculptures, which were all removed in the early modern period and replaced by a manicured park. The estate also hosts a Grade II-listed Coach House, which has been converted into four detached cottages and a series of garages. 
The interiors are bejewelled to the fullest, leaving no stone unturned. Beautifully restored by Alex Kravetz, the baroque walls and ceilings are ornately sculpted or panelled with 22-carat gold leaf, handwoven silk, or ebony. Colossal chandeliers, richly tessellated tapestries, plush banquettes, and sparkling Italian marble floors adorn the grand home. Besides the ballroom, study, and chapel, the house’s crown jewel is the Misbourne Suite, a two-floor suite encompassing a study, lounge, and a custom four-poster super king-size bed. 
This Georgian haven boasts quite a star-studded residential roster, including Robert Vansittart, 1st Baron Vansittart, J.P. Morgan, and Harry Saltzman. As one of the UK's most famous modern castle homes, it has also been featured in films such as 'Live and Let Die' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun.' 
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/the-icon-buckingham-palace/" rel="noopener">Inside Buckingham Palace</a> 
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<h2>Marchmont House, Scottish Borders</h2> 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Marchmont%20House-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="800" alt="Marchmont House, Scottish Borders"> 
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Ensconced in lush verdure and bounded by the Blackadder Water, the Marchmont House is a resplendent gem in the heart of the Scottish countryside. 
The Marchmont House is shrouded in political drama as well as royal benevolence, rendering the mansion all the more enigmatic. The house was built by Hugh Hume-Campbell, 3rd Earl of Marchmont in 1750. After it was passed on to different families over generations, it finally came under the ownership of Oliver Burge, director of Marchmont Farms. After consolidating the house and the surrounding estate under their name, the Marchmont House took on a new life in 2005, open for public viewing. 
The Palladian mansion’s raw beauty lies in its intricately sculpted ceilings, candelabras, and handsome fortresses. The interiors have been imbued with a contemporary gloss using modern Herringbone flooring, vividly hued walls, and stylish period furniture and rugs. The home is littered with dated as well as modern sculptures of Scottish provenance, in addition to refurbished antiques such as sconces, mirrors, and framed portraits. 
The 3000-acre estate won the 2018 Historic Houses Restoration Award, sponsored by Sotheby’s UK and Ireland. 
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/castle-of-mey/" rel="noopener">Castle of Mey</a> 
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<h2>Kelmscott Manor, Gloucestershire</h2> 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Kelmscott%20Manor-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" alt="Kelmscott Manor, Gloucestershire"> 
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The Kelmscott Manor is a Grade I-listed building tucked away in the heart of the Cotswolds in West Oxfordshire. 
The house was built by Thomas Turner, a local farmer, in 1570. Three centuries later, James Turner bought the home, 53 acres of manorial land, as well as the lordship. At this juncture, the collective estate came to be known as the Kelmscott Manor. A year later, writer and socialist William Morris saw that manor and was taken in by its bucolic beauty. He proclaimed that it was the “loveliest haunt of ancient peace” and bought it immediately. 
By the 20th century, much of the house fell into disrepair. It was incorporated into the Society of Antiquaries in 1960, which led to the much-needed restoration efforts. 
The barns were converted into snazzy tearooms and shops while the interior walls and floors were completely reconstructed. Most of Morris’ furniture, from his textiles to his beds, tables, chairs, and books, has been retained. Two rooms have been dedicated to preserving artistic exhibits collected over 300 years, such as display furniture from Red House in Bexleyheath and important works by Rossetti, Sir Edward Burne-Jones, and Breughel. The manicured garden is littered with grand old trees, rose bushes, and an orchard. 
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/st-james-palace/" rel="noopener">St. James’s Palace</a> 
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<h2>Carlowrie Castle, Edinburgh</h2> 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Carlowrie%20Castle-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="2560" height="1706" alt="Carlowrie Castle, Edinburgh"> 
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Carlowrie Castle is a Baronial-style marvel occupying the outskirts of Kirkliston, Scotland. 
The castle was built in 1852 by Thomas Hutchison, a wealthy wine merchant in the Provost of Leith. Designed by prominent architect David Rhind, it cost £33,000 to build the castle, which at the time was a king’s ransom. After 130 years, it was passed on to the Marshall family, who saw immense potential in the commercial value and marketability of the castle, heralding a new chapter for the estate. 
The Scottish Baronial castle was converted into an opulent nine-bedroom dwelling for hire. While retaining its authenticity, much of the interiors were revamped to suit modern sensibilities. Clean, elevated minimalism has been employed while decorating the rooms with dark wooden panels, winding staircases, slender chandeliers, and muted colour palettes. The castle house also displays over 70 artworks sourced from 25 countries. 
A new orangery and a separate manager’s cottage and office have been erected in the garden. Additionally, 12 detached eco-friendly cottages made from timber and reflective glass panes have been included behind the main manor. 
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Also Read:<a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/st-james-palace/" rel="noopener">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-view-of-edinburgh-castle/" rel="noopener">Best View of Edinburgh Castle</a> 
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<h2>Peper Harow House, Guildford</h2> 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Peper%20Harow%20House-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1200" height="769" alt="Peper Harow House, Guildford"> 
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The Peper Harow House is a Palladian mansion created by William Chambers, an architect to King George III and designer of Somerset House in London. This Grade I-listed structure is anchored on a 19-acre farmland and was recently revamped into a gorgeous family home comprising seven apartments and two wings, connected by a centralised lift network. 
The majestically sculpted ceilings, Georgian panels, winding staircases, soaring windows, and archaic light fixtures have been perfectly preserved, suffusing the mansion with an aristocratic charm. The period furniture, tapestries, bathroom fixtures, portraits, and sculptures, although new and fresh, are a graceful nod to the building’s history. Muted colour palettes have been seamlessly harmonised with richly patterned rugs, intricate ornaments, and gilded accent walls. 
Each wing of the modern castle home includes en-suite bedrooms, a billiards room, a wine cellar, a study, and a dressing room. Secured by electronic gates and state-of-the-art video systems, residents can reap the joys of old-money sophistication with modern-day comfort. 
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/the-icon-windsor-castle/" rel="noopener">Windsor Castle</a> 
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Sometimes, the best cure for newfangled anxieties is to revel in the rosy-hued bygone. The lavished elegance of olden-day aristocracy certainly bears an inexplicable fascination—a fantasy we recreate with high teas and country retreats. It’s time to bask in Britain’s ivory-towered past by visiting a castle estate – or buying one, for that matter. 
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In spite of the colonial mayhem in Europe, mediaeval Britain’s way of life is full of intrigue. The country’s cultural-looking glass inspires awe, for regal splendour shines through radiantly. Further, with Downton Abbey, Bridgerton, and The Crown garnering ardent fanbases, there’s been a heightened romanticisation of British aristocracy.&nbsp;

The Most Exotic Sports Cars 2026

Enthralling yet elegant, sports cars are incredibly enrapturing vehicles, bearing an air of casual confidence and sharp panache. There are few better ways of conjuring a commanding presence than rolling up in a speedster.

Sports cars were never just a dextrous set of wheels for championships. Indeed, they are powerful status symbols. From wealth to stature, refinement, and sheer excellence, a good sports car bears markers of all things desirable.

<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Exotic%20Sports%20Cars-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1064" alt="The Most Exotic Sports Cars 2024">
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Legacy, luxury, and engineering finesse define the most prestigious marques, making them household names and aspirational entities. As such, owning an <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/exotic-sports-cars/" rel="noopener">exotic sports car</a> sends a message of triumph to the world, whether you're behind the wheel or a leisurely passenger.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/the-evolution-of-luxury-cars-design-and-capability/" rel="noopener">Car Design Evolution</a>
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<h2>The Ferrari SF90 Stradale</h2>
Marking the 90th anniversary of the Scuderia Ferrari (the brand’s racing division), the SF90 symbolises Ferrari’s achievements, legacy, and calibre.
The gorgeous bodywork shelters the SF90 Stadale’s 986 HP powertrain, which comprises a twin-turbo V8 and three electric motors. It can sprint at a lightning speed from 0 to 100 km/hr in 2.5 seconds – as long as it takes to settle down in a car.
With a low engine cover, innovative geometric wheels, and robust vortex generators, the SF90 Stradale’s aerodynamics are nothing short of stellar. The car also hosts a state-of-the-art cooling system with a brilliantly engineered engine bay that manages temperatures as high as 900 degrees Celsius.
The whole exterior, from the front grille to the rear tail, is completely divorced from Ferrari’s old style, sculpted to signal the brand’s modern engineering and futuristic vision. The interiors are adorned with perfect trims and fragrant leather, besides a cutting-edge, aeronautics-inspired, all-digital dashboard known as the “human-machine interface,” leaving everything at the driver’s fingertips.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/ferrari-luxury-cars/" rel="noopener">Best Ferrari of All Time</a>
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<h2>Aston Martin Valkyrie</h2>
The Aston Martin Valkyrie is a vision straight out of a sci-fi movie, with its stunning muscular build and unmistakable race car DNA.
The car is outfitted with a 6.5-litre V12 engine that generates 1,160 horsepower and can propel the car from 0 to 60 mph in 2.6 seconds. With a top speed of 250 mph, the Valkyrie boasts a fierce energy, reminiscent of Formula One glory but untethered from the limits of tracks and championship rules.
The Valkyrie’s bodywork is unlike any other car’s, with a curvaceous coupe and wide underfloor ensuring exemplary aerodynamics. It is made entirely from carbon fibre, making the Valkyrie an extremely lightweight car and emboldening its unflinching speed. Additionally, it is the first luxury car in the world to be fitted with 3D-printed parts, which have been incorporated into the headlights.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-rolls-royce-cars/" rel="noopener">Most Expensive Rolls Royce Model</a>
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<h2>McLaren 750S</h2>
With the 750S, McLaren aimed to outshine all its past achievements and best the ambitious benchmarks of the sports car industry.
It’s fitted with a mid-mounted 4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that produces 740 HP. With a top speed of 206.3 mph, it can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 2.7 seconds. The 750S also boasts incomparable aerodynamic efficiency – the larger rear wing (20% more surface area than before), narrow eye sockets, a wide front bumper and splitter, and chiselled side air intakes, all coupled with its ultra-lightweight body, make for a swift, smooth ride. An avant-garde infotainment enclave and a high-tech sound system are also in the mix, seamlessly marrying amusement, comfort, and luxury.
Boldly glossed and armed with dihedral doors, the McLaren 750S is designed for a theatrical entrance.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-car-brands/" rel="noopener">Most Expensive Car Brands of All Time</a>
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<h2>Porsche 911 S/T</h2>
The Porsche 911 series is a timeless classic – Porsche fan or not when in doubt, you can blindly choose a 911.
The 911 S/T has drawn on the generation’s 60-year legacy, incorporating its athleticism in a ritzy but comforting new vehicle. Powered by 517 HP, it can secure a top speed of 186 mph and can dart from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds.
The ultra-lightweight car is bedecked with semi-aniline leather-clad interiors, with spacey bucket seats providing fantastic back support and unparalleled comfort.
The signature 911 bodywork is elevated with subtle colour palettes, magnesium-forged wheels, and gold-coloured lettering. “The historic coat of arms” from 1963 (an emblem bearing a rearing horse at the centre of a golden shield surrounded by patterns of Germany’s trademark red and black colours) is set with grandeur on the bonnet as well as on the wheels.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/porsche-most-expensive-car/" rel="noopener">Most Expensive Porsche Cars</a>
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<h2>Lamborghini Revuelto</h2>
Brawny, nimble, and rugged, the Revuelto is Lamborghini’s latest jewel in its vast crown of luxury cars. Celebrating 60 years of excellence, the Revuelto is the marque’s first electrified supercar with a formidable hybrid powertrain.
As a High Performance Electrified Vehicle (HPEV), its mighty powertrain that produces a colossal 1001 HP comprises a 12-cylinder internal combustion engine along with three high-density electric motors. A beast on wheels, the Revuelto can gallop at a speed of 350 km/hr, catapulting from 0 to 100 km/hr in 2.5 seconds. Those onboard get to enjoy the roars of this car’s robust engine, truly music to an automobile fiend’s ears.
Its toned physique, with symmetrical lines and aerodynamic muscles, conjures a captivating silhouette. Designed to make the driver “feel like a pilot,” the cockpit has been conceptualised with a driver-first mindset. The dashboard is simple, uncluttered, yet technologically forward.&nbsp;
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/gold-ferrari-car-price/" rel="noopener">Ferrari Golden Car Price</a>
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<h2>Lotus Evija</h2>
An all-electric marvel, the Lotus Evija is arguably the marque’s most powerful car yet. With only 130 units in production, the Evija is one of the most coveted makes of the year.
The technical specifications of the Evija are jaw-dropping – it’s empowered by an engine generating 1983 HP, an acceleration rate of 9.2 seconds to go from 0 to 300 km/hr, and an electronically limited top speed of 218 mph. The mid-mounted battery pack simultaneously charges four e-motors and takes 12 minutes to reach 80% charge.
The carbon fibre bodywork tautly masks the car’s interiors, thus sporting an incredibly chiselled appearance and light body weight. An enigmatic Venturi tunnel on each rear quarter tremendously enhances the Evija’s beauty.
Defined by complex intelligent interfaces, both the driver and the passengers are treated to ergonomic multi-touch controls, affording an intimate connection between the car and its people. With minimalist, trimmed interiors, all aboard will experience the Evija’s gusto without any distractions and inhibitions.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/classic-cars-a-perfect-day-out-with-your-favourite-ride-and-timeless-beauty/" rel="noopener">Timeless Ride with Classic Cars</a>
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<h2>Maserati MC20</h2>
The MC20 is Maserati’s prized sports car that aims to defy the concept of time.
Fitted with a three-litre V6 engine – known as the “Nettuno” – the MC20 boasts a power of 621 HP, with an ability to go from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/hr. It has four driving modes – Sports, Wet, Corsa, and GT – rendering the MC20 one of the most versatile cars in the sports vehicle niche.
With an eye-catching spyder physique, a swift retractable roof, and a resilient glass ceiling, the MC20 is designed to keep passengers close to the lofty sky. The interiors are lavished with Italian leather and flawless stitching, in addition to an all-embracing sound system tailormade to kick your personal space up a notch.
Besides the intricate digital display system and remarkable aesthetic, the surround-view camera, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian/cyclist recognition (AEB), and traffic sign information (TSI) are key features that set the MC20 apart.
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Enthralling yet elegant, sports cars are incredibly enrapturing vehicles, bearing an air of casual confidence and sharp panache. There are few better ways of conjuring a commanding presence than rolling up in a speedster. Revel in decadent automobile splendour by adding an exotic sports car to your fleet.
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Sports cars were never just a dextrous set of wheels for championships. Indeed, they are powerful status symbols. From wealth to stature, refinement, and sheer excellence, a good sports car bears markers of all things desirable.

Bentley’s Most Expensive Cars of All Time

Explore Bentley's most expensive cars, their unique histories, groundbreaking engineering, and unmatched luxury and performance pedigree

Bentley is a special breed in the league of super vehicles. A paragon of stellar craftsmanship steeped in old-world luxury, these cars bear a unique panache. Elegant, sophisticated, and regal, all with an incredible performance pedigree, there's no doubt that Bentley aims for and delivers perfection.

The company was founded in 1919 by Walter Owen Bentley in North London. He used to sell DFP cars in the city while nurturing dreams of beginning his own automobile empire. A sudden brainwave at the car shop – of replacing cast iron pistons with aluminium – sparked his ambitions to life.
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<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/shutterstock_1651067770.jpg" width="1024" height="681" loading="lazy" alt="shutterstock_1651067770" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1024px;">
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The first ever Bentley car (with aluminium pistons, of course) was released in 1921 and immediately impressed everyone in the auto landscape. It won Bentley's first 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1924.
To this day, Bentley wears the badge of British automobile eminence. Its signature style, track heritage, and association with the Royals have carved an elevated niche for the brand. Read on to discover <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/bentley-most-expensive-car/" rel="noopener">Bentley’s most expensive cars</a>.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/the-evolution-of-luxury-cars-design-and-capability/" rel="noopener">Car Evolution Prestige</a>
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<h2>1931 Bentley 4 1/2 Litre SC "Blower" Sports 2/3 Seater Boattail: $8,000,000 – $10,000,000</h2>
&lt;img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/1931%20Bentley-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1536" height="1024" alt="1931 Bentley 4 1/2 Litre SC " blower"="" sports="" 2="" 3="" seater="" boattail:="" $8,000,000="" –="" $10,000,000"=""&gt;
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The 4.5-litre Blower is one of Bentley’s most quintessential series. A vision of Sir Henry Ralph Stanley “Tim” Birkin, one of the iconic “Bentley Boys,” only 50 units of this model were ever made.
W.O. Bentley was sceptical of superchargers and believed in the efficiency of larger engines. He expressed, “They would lack in their preparation all the experience we had built up in (our own) racing department over 10 years. I feared the worst and looked forward to their first appearance with anxiety.”&nbsp;
Armed with a mounted supercharger, the 4.5-litre Blower outputted 172 HP as opposed to the 108 HP produced by the regular 4.5-litre.
This car initially never won any races, confirming W.O. Bentley’s fears. He woefully stated, "The supercharged 4.5 never won a race, suffered a never-ending series of mechanical failures, and brought the marque Bentley disrepute.” However, in spite of Bentley’s displeasure, 50 of these supercharged Blowers were manufactured at Tim Birkin’s behest. The 4.5 supercharged Blower is a key part of Birkin’s legacy and paved the way for Bentley’s upcoming track success.&nbsp;
One of the authentic 50 models has been valued at $8,000,000-$10,000,000 as per a Gooding &amp;Company estimate. Few of the other units have been auctioned for an average of $4–5 million by RM Sotheby’s, Bonhams, and Gooding &amp; Company.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/porsche-most-expensive-car/" rel="noopener">Porsche Expensive Cars</a>
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<h2>1932 Bentley “Blower”: $7.06 Million</h2>
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/1932%20Bentley%20Blowe-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="938" alt="1932 Bentley “Blower”: $7.06 Million">
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This model is one of the aforementioned 50 supercharged Blowers commissioned by Tim Birkin. While W.O. Bentley wasn’t on board with the supercharger, Birkin had engineer Amherst Villiers develop one.
This refined 4.5-litre supercharged engine produced 240 HP. In 1932, Tim Birkin set a staggering record of 138 mph in this Blower, mitigating some of Bentley’s scepticisms of this new engine.
This record-setting 1932 Blower is a veritable fragment of Bentley’s history and was sold for $7 million at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-rolls-royce-cars/" rel="noopener">Rolls Royce Expensive Cars</a>
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<h2>Tim Birkin 1929 4 1/2-litre supercharged 'Blower' Bentley: $6.4 Million&nbsp;</h2>
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Tim%20Birkin%201929-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1688" height="1080" alt="Tim Birkin 1929 4 1/2-litre supercharged 'Blower' Bentley: $6.4 Million&nbsp;">
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This 1929 unit is among the first ever aforementioned supercharged Blower models. This bona fide 4.5-litre was once Bentley’s most expensive collectible car, with some sources claiming that its net worth exceeded $20 million.
This particular 4.5-litre supercharged Blower did set an impressive speed record of 137 mph at the Brooklands Outer Circuit. It was later bought by watchmaker George Daniels, famous for his stunning luxury automobile kitty.
Several decades later, Daniels’ 1929 Blower was auctioned off by Bonhams, selling for $6,480,760 at the gavel drop.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-car-brands/" rel="noopener">Top Expensive Car Brands</a>
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<h2>1928 Bentley 4 1/2 Litre Le Mans Sports "Bobtail": $6 Million</h2>
&lt;img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/1928%20Bentley-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1246" height="1068" alt="1928 Bentley 4 1/2 Litre Le Mans Sports " bobtail":="" $6="" million"=""&gt;
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The 1928 4.5-litre Bobtail was conceptualised when Bentley’s 3-litre cars had to be retired. This Bobtail had a bigger engine, equipped to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and other international championships of the time.
At the heels of a thumping victory at the 1927 Le Mans, three such 4.5-litres were built in secrecy near Vanden Plas’ Works. The aesthetics were moulded to comply with Le Mans’ new rules. The compact four-seater was fitted with a semi-vertical spare wheel and a bobtail-like cowling, which inspired this car’s nickname.&nbsp;
While the Bobtail showed incredible promise during its first runs, engine failures prevented it from taking off in 1928. In the following year, however, the car truly shined as a Works entry in the new JCC Double Twelve, where it finished in second place. In the 1929 Le Mans, the Bobtail came in third place in spite of severe mechanical issues during the race.
RM Sotheby’s valued the 1928 Bentley 4.5-litre “Bobtail” at $6,500,000 – $7,500,000 for a 2017 Amelia Island auction.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/gold-ferrari-car-price/" rel="noopener">Gold Ferrari Car Price</a>
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<h2>1930 Bentley Speed Six Open Tourer: $5.7 Million</h2>
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/1930%20Bentley%20Speed%20Six%20Open%20Tourer-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1162" height="750" alt="1930 Bentley Speed Six Open Tourer: $5.7 Million">
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The Speed Six’s exemplary performance instigated Ettore Bugatti to remark that W.O. Bentley “built the fastest truck in the world.” This car was so powerful that cars from competing teams declined to take part in pivotal races of the era.&nbsp;
The 4700-pound car was equipped with a six-cylinder engine, producing 177 HP of power and a top speed of 125 mph. A formidable car, it led Bentley to victory in the 1929 and 1930 Le Mans. In 1931, a Speed Six won the Brooklands 500-Mile Race at an astounding average of 118.39 mph.
Only 182 Speed Sixes were built, and one unit ended up in the Bill Lake collection. This Speed Six went for $5.7 million at a 2004 Christie’s Auction.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/ferrari-luxury-cars/" rel="noopener">Best Ferrari Cars of All Time</a>
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<h2>1996 Bentley Rapier: $4.5 million</h2>
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/1996%20Bentley%20Rapier-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="637" alt="1996 Bentley Rapier: $4.5 million">
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This deceptively simplistic four-seater coupe was custom made on order for the Sultan of Brunei.&nbsp;
Only six of these models were made, all bearing a special number plate inscribed with “JB,” signifying Prince Jefri Bolkiah, who was the Sultan’s brother.
Substantial engineering aspects of the car were inspired by the Bentley Java, and some superficial elements were borrowed from the Continental R. The car is outfitted with a 6.75-litre V8 single turbocharger non-catalyst engine, empowering it with 534 HP. Its top speed is a respectable 158 mph.
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/exotic-sports-cars/" rel="noopener">Exotic Sports Cars</a>
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<h2>1999 Bentley Hunaudières Concept: $4 Million</h2>
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/1999%20Bentley%20Hunaudi%C3%A8res%20Concept-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1152" height="760" alt="1999 Bentley Hunaudières Concept: $4 Million">
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The Bentley Hunaudières Concept was first unveiled at the 1999 Geneva Salon International de l'Auto. Its design and flair at the auto show manifestly exemplified Bentley’s integration into the Volkswagen universe.
As a nod to the Bentley Boys heyday, the sleek set of wheels was fitted with a brawny Volkswagen 8-litre W16 engine that churned out 623 HP, securing a top speed of 220 mph.&nbsp;
The Hunaudières Concept was crafted out of aluminium and carbon fibre, sculpted with minimalist lines and a low-lying silver grille. The exorbitantly cushy interiors boasted tan-coloured Nubuck and Connolly leather.&nbsp;
One of the most striking features of this car was its technological inventiveness – its rear view mirrors were replaced with rearview cameras fitted with the front wheels.
The epitome of British engineering excellence and old-world glamour, Bentley is arguably one of the most sought-after marques in the realm of luxury cars. It is synonymous with style, seduction, and power, designed to perform and entice. It’s time to step into the fascinating world of Bentleys – after all, it’s bound to look handsome in your garage.
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Bentley is a special breed in the league of super vehicles. A paragon of stellar craftsmanship steeped in old-world luxury, these cars bear a unique panache. Elegant, sophisticated, and regal, all with an incredible performance pedigree, there's no doubt that Bentley aims for and delivers perfection.

The Most Expensive Nike Shoes Ever

Discover the most expensive Nike shoes ever, from celebrity collaborations to rare editions, including iconic Air Jordans and Yeezys.

There are relatively few shoe brands known globally by their company name with no need for elaboration, and when it comes to sports shoes, no brands come any bigger than Nike. Taking its name from the Greek Goddess of Victory, Nike existed as a company since 1964 but under the name ‘Blue Ribbon Sports’. It wasn’t until May 1971, that the brand changed their name to Nike. And 53 years later, the company is recognised as the largest supplier of sports shoes and clothing in the world. 
 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/The%20Most%20Expensive%20Nike%20Shoes%20Ever-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1067" alt="The Most Expensive Nike Shoes Ever"> 
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Designs with interesting shapes, trend-setting colours, and intricate details make Nike shoes very collectable. With its instantly recognisable ‘Swoosh’ emblem, Nike is undoubtedly the most iconic brand in sportswear manufacturing. But how does a brand like Nike become so iconic? Undoubtedly for Nike, the big moment was when the most famous Basketball player of all time, Michael Jordan, put his name to a new sneaker that Nike was designing in 1984. The Air Jordan was born, propelling Nike into the commercial stratosphere. Their potential seemingly had no limits – their place in the world was immortalised by Michael J Fox wearing the Nike sneakers of the future as Marty McFly in Back to the Future II in 1989. 
Since then, there has been no shortage of world-famous celebrities and women endorsing Nike athletic footwear, predominantly stars from the world of sports collaborating on new designs with the company. The late, great Kobe Bryant followed in the footsteps of fellow Basketball superstar in having shoes designed with him and for him. Tennis megastars like Andre Agassi and Serena Williams have also put their names to Nike designs. Add to that, collaborations with famous designers like Louis Vuitton, and famous music industry names –Drake, Eminem, and Kanye West. 
The list of <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-nike-shoes/" rel="noopener">the most expensive Nike shoes</a> includes designs worn in actual sports arenas and designs of which few units were manufactured. 
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Jordan OVO Drake</h2> 
The ultimate status symbol – solid gold sneakers.Well, not quite but as near as wearable shoes can get to it. The OVO was a design originally tailor-made for the famous singer and rapper Drake in 2016 – Drake himself and Michael Jordan collaborated on the design with Nike. The big extravagance was that these one-off shoes were coated in 24-karat gold and weighed about 100 pounds. Totally unannounced until Drake unveiled them on Instagram, causing an Internet frenzy. Actual cost? $2million. 
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-mercedes/" rel="noopener">The Most Expensive Mercedes Benz</a> 
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Nike Air Yeezy 1</h2> 
These Nike sneakers also stayed under wraps until they were unveiled by Kayne West himself, at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles in 2008. The shoes were crafted in shades of black leather with contrasting beige heels and a pink medallion engraved with "Y" (highlighting Nike's partnership with Yeezy, West’s own design company). In April 2021, these black suede prototypes, sold for $1.8 million, with the proceeds going to Doernbecher Children's Hospital. On that selling price, Brahm Wachter of<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sotheby%27s" style="color: #202122;"> Sotheby'</a>s said "It speaks volumes of Kanye's legacy as one of the most influential clothing and sneaker designers of our time, and of the Yeezy franchise he has built which has become an industry titan." 
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-lamborghini/" rel="noopener">How Much Does a Lamborghini Cost?</a> 
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Air Ship</h2> 
This is the sports shoe design that changed everything for Nike, so no wonder that they’re viewed as the birth of THE iconic Nike sneaker. This was the shoe that Michael Jordan wore as part of his first contract with Nike, before the design of the Air Jordan. The wearing of this sneaker in a professional game was actually banned by the NBA, or rather certain design characteristics of the sneaker.&nbsp; In October of 2021, the Nike Air Ship worn by Michael Jordan in his fifth-ever NBA game and signed by the superstar, sold at Sotheby’s for $1.472 million. 
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Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-jordans/" rel="noopener">Most Expensive Jordan 4</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2 style="text-align: center;">Air Jordan 1</h2> 
The first sneaker endorsed by Michael Jordan put Nike in a different league and they’ve stayed there and excelled ever since. The designer Peter Moore wanted to showcase the colour palette of Chicago and so crafted AJ1 in bright red, black, and white. Worn for one game only, Jordan autographed these sneakers, and they were put up for auction, years later in 2020. An anonymous sneaker collector bought them for&nbsp; $560,000. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-hotels-in-the-world/" rel="noopener">Most Luxurious Hotel in The World</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Flat Moon</h2> 
This is real history as far as Nike is concerned. Designed and manufactured back in the 1970s, this early Nike running design, the Waffle Racing Flat Moon Shoe, was crafted by none other than one of the company’s co-founders, Bill Bowerman. Ingeniously, he put the rubber into his wife's waffle maker to create the shoes' soles. Only a few pairs of the shoes were actually manufactured and one collector paid a massive $437,500 for those at Sotheby's in 2019. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/most-expensive-hotel-in-manchester/" rel="noopener">Manchester's Most Expensive Hotel</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2 style="text-align: center;">MAG Back to the Future</h2> 
Nike had designed the futuristic self-tying sneakers for the second instalment of the Back to the Future trilogy in 1989, as worn by the movie’s main character, Marty McFly. Years later in 2011, public demand saw the company produce a limited edition of replicas, imitating the design with muted tones of white and grey enhanced by a glowing icy-blue effect powered by a rechargeable battery in each shoe. All 15,000 pairs were auctioned on eBay raising over $9.4 million for the Michael J Fox Foundation for research into Parkinson’s Disease. They updated the sneaker for another limited run in 2016, raising a further $6.75 million. 
Nike shoes are regarded as a status symbol, probably more so in the USA than anywhere else. That’s hardly surprising given how many high-profile celebrities from the entertainment industry as well as the sports world have been keen to put their names on Nike designs in recent years. Of course, many of the more limited edition shoes are the ones that are the most ridiculously expensive but while much of that’s down to the equally ridiculous self-indulgence of the celebrities collaborating on their design, it’s also due to how highly the brand is viewed by the rest of the world. 
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There are relatively few shoe brands known globally by their company name with no need for elaboration, and when it comes to sports shoes, no brands come any bigger than Nike. Taking its name from the Greek Goddess of Victory, Nike existed as a company since 1964 but under the name ‘Blue Ribbon Sports’. It wasn’t until May 1971, that the brand changed their name to Nike. And 53 years later, the company is recognised as the largest supplier of sports shoes and clothing in the world.

The Best Facts About Vincent Van Gogh

Explore fascinating facts about Vincent Van Gogh, his troubled life, famous paintings, mental health, and enduring legacy in the art world.

Ask most people what they know about Van Gogh, and they’ll offer perhaps two or three facts about the artistic genius – he was a Dutch painter, he cut one of his ears off and Don McClean sang a song about him back in the 1970s. Hopefully, they could name some of the artist’s most famous paintings, certainly ‘Sunflowers’ and perhaps ‘The Starry Night’. But there’s a wealth of information that reveals Van Gogh to be a complex character, as one would expect. 

<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Vincent%20Van%20Gogh-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1082" alt="The Best Facts About Vincent Van Gogh"> 
&nbsp; 
There are background facts about Van Gogh that pre-date his period as an artist. Born in The Netherlands in 1853, he was the son of a country minister. Named after his paternal grandfather, he was the oldest of six siblings, with his younger brother, Theo, becoming an art dealer, and in that position being able to offer support to his brother and his art. 
Like so many famous artists, Van Gogh’s talent was unrecognised during his lifetime, but his paintings have sold for truly astronomical prices in the last 40 years, making them some of the most expensive ever. More importantly, those paintings are some of the most celebrated in the history of art. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Artistic Career</h2> 
Van Gogh didn’t start painting until he was 27 years old. He had originally wanted to be a minister like his father but after studying for a year at the Amsterdam School of Theology, wasn’t allowed to sit his exams because he refused to learn Latin, decrying it as a dead language. Van Gogh worked for his uncle’s art dealing company in The Hague, then for the Groupil Gallery in London before he turned his attention to being an artist himself. He was largely self-taught, only receiving formal artistic training for four months a few years before his death. He was a prolific artist, producing at least 900 paintings, and many more sketches and drawings before his early death at 37, but it wasn’t until well after his demise that the Dutch Master’s talent was recognised. Although Van Gogh began to garner acclaim for his work with inclusion in higher profile exhibitions in 1890, it’s said that he only sold one of his paintings while he was alive – ‘The Red Vineyard near Arles’ – seven months before his death for just 400 francs. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Mental Health</h2> 
Known for his strong and difficult personality, Van Gogh alienated many with his argumentative nature. His mental well-being was erratic throughout his life, and fell into deep decline in the late 1880s, just as he started hitting his artistic peak. His brother Theo paid fellow painter <a href="https://www.sothebys.com/en/artists/paul-gauguin" style="color: #333333;">Paul Gauguin</a> to move to Arles, France, where Vincent was then living, to keep a protective eye on the artist. - Thus began a ‘Love/Hate’ relationship, andollowing a frenzied argument with Gauguin, Van Gogh mutilated his own left ear. Oonly the lobe of the ear was cut off but the blood-loss was so dramatic, Van Gogh was admitted to the nearby Hôtel-Dieu hospital. Because he only ever sold one of his paintings in his lifetime, he considered himself something of a failure., which ultimately saw him fall into a deep depression; towards the end of his life, fellow citizens of Arles signed a petition saying that he was a danger to the community. This led him to commit himself to an asylum. Van Gogh ultimately committed suicide by shooting himself in the chest, dying 30 hours later. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Famous Works</h2> 
The two paintings that are arguably Van Gogh’s best-known works of art are just two of many of the celebrated paintings from the legendary Dutch artist. Van Gogh himself didn’t even think that ‘The Starry Night’ was any good. The painting was completed while Van Gogh was in an asylum in Saint-Remy-de-Provence, recuperating from a nervous breakdown. If his opinion of ‘Starry Night’ was low, Van Gogh’s view of his ‘Sunflowers’ series was just the opposite – he knew they were special. He actually painted a series of seven, one of which was lost during World War 2, one that is in the possession of a private buyer and five of which are on show in various museums around the world. Probably the most famous Van Goghs are his numerous self-portraits; he actually painted so many because he couldn’t afford to pay for a model to pose for him, such was his state of poverty. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Legacy</h2> 
The terrible irony is that Van Gogh lived in relative poverty when, these days, his works sell for tens of millions of pounds. His brother Theo not only supported Vincent financially, but he was also his biggest fan, publicising his brother’s work in his job as an art dealer. Theo died only a few months after Vincent took his own life, so it was left to Theo’s widow to keep the Van Gogh flame burning. Slowly but surely throughout the 20th century, appreciation for the artist’s work grew as his contribution was re-evaluated. His work has come to define post-impressionism and has inspired so many artists in the 130 years since his death. The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam has attracted millions of visitors every year since it opened in 1973. But it’s obviously the amazing prices that continue to be paid for Van Gogh's masterpieces that tell us how much his contribution to the history of art is valued… literally. The most expensive Van Gogh sold at auction, ‘Orchard with Cypresses’, brought a price of over $ 117 million at Christie's in New York in 2022. <a href="https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/21-facts-about-vincent-van-gogh">A little more affordable was ‘Nature Morte’, bought for a mere $ 61 million at Sotheby's in New York, in 2014.</a> 
&nbsp; 
Only a handful of people on the planet will ever be able to even think about buying a Van Gogh but we can all appreciate the artist’s work by just looking at the paintings. And undoubtedly, that appreciation is all the greater when one has knowledge of the great man’s life. So many books, films, and songs have tried to help with that appreciation but looking at the paintings themselves captures the feeling much better.{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"__ActaDisplay_5dc6a7":["Light","Medium","Regular"]}) }}

Ask most people what they know about Van Gogh, and they’ll offer perhaps two or three facts about the artistic genius – he was a Dutch painter, he cut one of his ears off and Don McClean sang a song about him back in the 1970s. Hopefully, they could name some of the artist’s most famous paintings, certainly ‘Sunflowers’ and perhaps ‘The Starry Night’. But there’s a wealth of information that reveals Van Gogh to be a complex character, as one would expect.

Five of the Best Towns and Villages in Norfolk

Discover five of the best towns and villages in Norfolk, England, known for their scenic beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture.

The ceremonial county of Norfolk in England’s east is known for its waterways, picture-perfect countryside, and beautiful sandy beaches and coastline. With these natural attractions, many people visit this part of the country on holiday, but it’s also a wonderful place to live.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
Notable former residents include the famous naval commander Horatio Nelson, actor and comedian Stephen Fry, and the former British Prime Minister Sir John Major. 
&nbsp; 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Five%20of%20the%20Best%20Towns%20and%20Villages%20in%20Norfolk-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="668" alt="Five of the Best Towns and Villages in Norfolk" style="width: 1000px; height: auto; max-width: 100%;"> 
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Agriculture has long been an important trade for the region. While other parts of the country changed during the Industrial Revolution and beyond, Norfolk stayed mostly rural. Despite this, its urban centres have much to offer. The largest, Norwich, is known as ‘The Fine City’, and is a UNESCO City of Literature. 
This historic city dates back to Roman times and today offers a perfect blend of old and new. Take a stroll here and you will see stunning mediaeval architecture, a vibrant cultural scene, great shops, and cafes and restaurants. It also has good transport connections. 
The region boasts historic market towns, like the historic port of King’s Lynn, located on the River Ouse. The town has a rich history, with a range of impressive buildings, attractions, and museums as part of its buzzing centre. 
Norfolk also has a huge number of lovely smaller towns and villages. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at five of the very best. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Wells-next-the-Sea</h2> 
Wells-next-the-Sea, on the picturesque North Norfolk coast, was traditionally an important trade seaport. Today, it is better known as a thriving seaside town with a gorgeous beach. Its colourful beach huts are widely photographed, and its long sandy beach is bordered by a pine forest. This makes it a stunning place to spend time and a superb location to spot local wildlife, including birds and seals. 
Fishing has long been important to the local community, and the harbour is a great location for crabbing, fishing, sailing, and waterskiing. The RNLI station in the village is also an important community location and showcases a range of historic lifeboats. 
Visitors and locals alike will find a good mix of shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants around Staithe Street and the Buttlands – a leafy square lined with lime trees and overlooked by Georgian houses. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-villages-in-warwickshire/" rel="noopener">Best Villages in Warwickshire</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Wroxham</h2> 
Wroxham and the adjoining Hoveton are often called the ‘Capital of the Broads’ and many people come here for boating holidays on the famous Norfolk Broads. Its scenic waterways are rightly a major attraction, and visitors can explore them on guided tours or by hiring a boat from Herbert Woods boatyard. In the warmer months, the calm waters are also worth enjoying by paddleboard, canoe, or kayak. A popular location to paddle to is Hickling Broad, which is one of the largest of the Broads and home to an incredible variety of some of the UK’s rarest plants and animals. 
There is plenty to enjoy on dry land too, from the family-friendly Wroxham Barns with its farm park, mini-golf course, and shops, to Roys of Wroxham – known as the “world’s largest village store”. Wroxham is just a 10-minute drive from Norwich and around half an hour to the beach, offering those who live here the best of both worlds.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-villages-near-bath/" rel="noopener">Best Villages Near Bath</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Holt</h2> 
The Georgian town of Holt is a charming place to visit or call home. Its galleries, independent shops, eateries, local markets, and history, offer a great package to visitors and those considering moving to this part of England. 
The town’s 18th-century Georgian buildings were mostly constructed following the Great Fire of 1708. These and the town’s Victorian alleyways – home to a range of independent stores, cafes, and galleries – lend the place a timeless quality. 
Nature lovers will feel right at home wandering the woodland trails of Holt Country Park. This 100-acre site is teeming with wildlife, including many varieties of butterflies, and is open throughout the year. There’s something for everyone at the park, with a visitor centre, events, a renowned tearoom, and plenty of spots to enjoy a picnic. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/best-villages-in-somerset-to-live/" rel="noopener">Prettiest Villages in Somerset</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Burnham Market</h2> 
Burnham Market is the largest of a collection of Burnham villages, including Burnham Overy and Burnham Thorpe, located around the River Burn in North Norfolk. 
Horatio Nelson, best known for his victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, was born here in September 1758. His father was rector of the local church, which remains in the village, and the historic oak-beamed Lord Nelson pub that takes his name is also worth a visit. 
The area is considered a great place to live, with its proximity to the stunning coastline and countryside proving a major draw for many looking to escape the city and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. But, with a selection of boutiques and eateries to choose from around the village green, there’s enough sophistication to keep those accustomed to more urban settings entertained too. Such is its upmarket vibe and popularity with celebrities, Burnham Market is sometimes referred to as ‘Chelsea on Sea’. 
&nbsp; 
Also Read: <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/the-journal/prettiest-villages-in-england/" rel="noopener">Most Beautiful Villages in England</a> 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Cley-next-the-Sea</h2> 
The small, picturesque village of Cley-next-the-Sea is easily identifiable by its 18th-century windmill. It’s hard to believe now, but in the Middle Ages, this was a busy port trading grains, malt, coal, cloth, cereals, and fish. Today, Cley’s natural charms make it famous. The village is part of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is next to Cley Marshes Nature Reserve. Birdwatchers come from around the world to see waders, wildfowl, and rare birds. Cley is also on the Norfolk Coast Path, making it an ideal spot to pull on your walking boots and enjoy a hike. There is even a shingle beach, which is good for fishing. 
Those who love the coast and wildlife will love it here, but with some unique shops, a pub, a deli, and tea shops, the village also has a character that will make you want to stick around longer. 
&nbsp; 
These are just some of the towns and villages that make Norfolk an attractive place to visit and live. It has a lifestyle all of its own, that is just waiting to be experienced, enjoyed, and explored and you can see it all for yourself using these starting points as your guide. 
&nbsp; 
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The ceremonial county of Norfolk in England’s east is known for its waterways, picture-perfect countryside, and beautiful sandy beaches and coastline. With these natural attractions, many people visit this part of the country on holiday, but it’s also a wonderful place to live.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Modern Victorian Hallway Ideas for Your Home

Transform your home with these modern Victorian hallway ideas, combining classic charm with contemporary style for a stunning entrance.

Victorian hallways, though varying in shape and size, often share common features such as high ceilings, ornate cornices, mouldings, and patterned tiles. While these elements add charm, homeowners may also face challenges with these spaces, as they can be narrow, dark, and challenging to decorate. When styled correctly, however, these often-overlooked spaces can be a standout feature and a beguiling entrance to your home.&nbsp; 
 
Many associate Victorian interior design with heavily decorated spaces with elements such as patterned wallpaper, flowers, extravagant furnishings, rich colours, and bold prints. 
<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Modern%20Victorian%20Hallway%20Ideas%20for%20Your%20Home-jpg-1.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="1068"> 
&nbsp; 
However, since the reign of Queen Victoria stretched from 1837 to 1901, it’s fair to say there is no singular style that defined the entire period. The Victorians used and combined more styles from previous eras than had previously been known. One such example would be the medieval-influenced fleurs de lys, quatrefoils, and heraldic motifs, which were commonly seen in Victorian homes. 
This ability to experiment is good news for people looking to remain sensitive to some of the original Victorian features, while also adding a contemporary twist. In this piece, we’ll take a look at some of the best modern Victorian hallway ideas to consider for your home.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Fabulous Flooring</h2> 
There are several ways to make the flooring of a Victorian hallway a real standout. Floor tiles are a traditional feature that can set the foundations for the rest of the décor, and styles including ornate mosaics or vibrant chequers can be considered works of art in their own right. One way to make them work well and maintain a modern look is by choosing options in contemporary colours and matte finishes. This serves as a nod to the Victorian era without looking archaic. 
Alternatively, parquet wooden flooring may fit the bill. When properly maintained, wooden flooring can be a hardwearing and stylish option that gives a timeless look to the home. Decorative floor registers and hallway runners are other options to think about, bringing a personalised and practical flourish to the area. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Wonderful Walls</h2> 
Wainscoting, wallpaper, and mouldings are all commonly seen features on the walls of Victorian hallways. All of these classic details can have a part to play in modern hallways – the key is getting the balance right. 
For example, consider adding a feature wall of wallpaper using traditional motifs and patterns in modern colour schemes, while painting the other walls in complementary colours. This is a great way to bring a classic touch, without it dominating or being overbearing. Decorative corbels, wall panels, or wall niches can add some visual interest to hallway walls, in addition to dado and picture rails.&nbsp; 
If you prefer more contemporary styles over more traditional features, then a neutral colour scheme could be for you. Elegant, dark brown furniture can also add depth and contrast, while tiling can be used for a more simplistic, clean appearance.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Shed Some Light</h2> 
Lighting can be both functional and decorative. Traditional Victorian lighting focused on bringing grandeur to the space with chandeliers and ornate detailing. For a maximalist hallway that seeks to impress, you could emulate this style with an extravagant lighting fixture, such as a gilded candelabra or crystal chandelier. For a more understated look,&nbsp; restrained lighting options such as pendant lights and wall sconces afford attention to other parts of the room, such as the walls.&nbsp; 
Pendants work particularly well with high ceilings and look notably elegant when combined with modern finishes like matte black or brushed brass. 
Time to make the most of your natural lighting. In narrow hallways, think about what else you can do to keep the space looking light and bright. This might mean lighter shades of paint on the walls and lighter wooden furniture. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Fantastic Furniture</h2> 
When you think of Victorian hallway furniture, a console table is likely one of the first things that comes to mind. It's a quintessential feature in many homes, offering both practicality and elegance. Not only does it provide a convenient spot to place essentials like mail and keys as you walk through the door, it also serves as a striking focal point, setting the tone for the rest of the space with its ornate design and timeless appeal. Combine modern materials like dark wood or metal with turned legs for a perfect blend of old and new. 
A coat rack, umbrella stand, or hat rack is another practical and stylish addition to a hallway, although pegs on the wall may work better in narrower spaces. A shoe storage solution is also essential. Shoe storage cabinets or benches are perfect for narrow hallways, helping to avoid the space getting cluttered with footwear and providing another surface to put to good use. 
A mirror is a Victorian design staple that remains a great addition to the modern hallway. A large feature mirror, or even several decorative mirrors, can add space and depth to small hallways, and bring heaps of character.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Dazzling Décor</h2> 
Art and decorative elements have a vital role to play in getting your hallway to look its best. The Victorians loved landscapes, portraits, and still life, and these still work well in modern hallways. While traditional Victorian-style paintings will have grand, ornate frames, contemporary black frames can bring a fresher look.&nbsp; 
For décor, items like books, sculptures, bowls, and vases, remain as relevant as ever, but be selective to avoid cluttering your space. Think too about the materials they are made from, to ensure they fit the aesthetic. 
&nbsp; 
There are many ways to decorate a modern Victorian hallway, and we hope this article has inspired you to marry some of the best elements of the Victorian era with contemporary style.{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"__ActaDisplay_5dc6a7":["Light","Medium","Regular"]}) }}

Victorian hallways, though varying in shape and size, often share common features such as high ceilings, ornate cornices, mouldings, and patterned tiles. While these elements add charm, homeowners may also face challenges with these spaces, as they can be narrow, dark, and challenging to decorate. When styled correctly, however, these often-overlooked spaces can be a standout feature and a beguiling entrance to your home.&nbsp;

Inside Freddie Mercury’s London Home

Explore Freddie Mercury's London home, Garden Lodge, a creative sanctuary with a rich history, now listed for over £30 million.

Who Wants to Live Forever? 

&nbsp;<img src="https://146414706.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414706/Imported_Blog_Media/Inside%20Freddie%20Mercury%E2%80%99s%20London%20Home-jpg.jpg" loading="lazy" width="1600" height="900" alt="Inside Freddie Mercury’s London Home"> 
&nbsp; 
Freddie Mercury is one of the world’s most beloved, larger-than-life rockstars. He revolutionised rock music and is still an icon to many all across the world, who fell in love with his charm, charisma, and outrageous sense of humour. Born Farrokh Bulsara in 1946, Mercury was eight years old when he began taking piano lessons and developed his musical skills. His family moved to England in the 1960s, due to political unrest in Zanzibar. 
Freddie attended Ealing Art College in London and in the 1970s he met guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor, with whom he formed the now legendary rock band Queen. Mercury’s incredible creativity was central to the development of Queen’s one-of-a-kind sound, which blended rock, opera, theatre, and pop. Mercury’s flamboyant stage presence and astonishing vocals propelled the group to enduring fame.&nbsp; 
The incredible success of Queen allowed Mercury to buy his beautiful London home, located at 1 Logan Place in Kensington, in 1980. The Georgian-style house was known affectionately as Garden Lodge and was a private retreat for Mercury during his time with Queen, but it also reflected his boundless creativity and character. The house was decorated in Mercury’s eclectic style, blending designs from the Victorian period with Japanese influences. 
Mercury, despite his larger-than-life public persona, was an intensely private person and it was in this beautiful home that he found respite from the world with his friends and fellow artists. Following his untimely death from AIDS-related illness in 1991, Garden Lodge was left to his dear friend (and former fiancé) Mary Austin. Austin lived in the home for thirty years, preserving Mercury’s legacy, until the house came on the market in 2024. The property remains a site of pilgrimage for fans, who often travel there to leave messages and tokens on its walls for Mercury, whose life meant so much to so many. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>The House</h2> 
Built in a Neo-Georgian style in 1907, the house features astonishing double-height ceilings, a mirrored dressing room, a bar, a library, and a gorgeous Japanese-style garden. The house is accessed through a now famous green door in the garden wall. Austin, who inherited the home following Mercury’s death, notes that from the moment she and Freddie “stepped through the fabled green door” the house served as “a place of peace, a true artist’s house.” However, Mercury’s ostentatious side is there, too, in particular in the mirrored dressing room, where he would don his signature white trainers and wax his fabulous moustache before a concert. 
Once through the green door and inside the front door, visitors are greeted by ornate door and window frames, vibrant yellow walls, and an eclectic mix of furniture. The saffron yellow that adorns the walls is said to have been Mercury’s favourite colour, and its brilliant warmth seems to encapsulate the singer’s extraordinary career. The two-floor drawing room is where Mercury kept his piano, the very same one on which he composed Bohemian Rhapsody. The bedroom, upstairs, is accessed through the ostentatious mirrored dressing room. Although Austin has since auctioned Mercury’s belongings in order to donate to HIV charities, the home was filled with his possessions and was almost a time capsule while Austin lived there. The property has a generous eight bedrooms, perfect for the lavish and entertaining gatherings of close friends that the singer held in this beautiful, private house. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>The Gardens</h2> 
Mercury was also heavily involved in creating the striking gardens for the home. Designed in a Japanese style, the gardens are full of gorgeous magnolia trees, which bloom in a blush pink. The garden also implements water features and a remarkable topiary. Such a large and well-appointed outdoor space is not common in Kensington, let alone in London more generally. To mirror the Japanese design of the garden, the house also featured a Japanese living room, decorated traditionally. The garden was also central to Mercury’s creativity, the music centre in the house looked out over the garden, as did the bar where he entertained his friends and guests. The music centre, surrounded by the garden's tranquillity, is where Mercury wrote some of the most spectacular songs of the twentieth century. It’s easy to imagine the driving force of Queen taking inspiration from the grandeur of nature to pen classics that jumped genres from classical to rock – and everything in between. The house was carefully arranged for Mercury to get the most out of his creative and artistic sanctuary, away from the world and prying eyes, tucked behind a large garden wall and surrounded by lush greenery. 
&nbsp; 
<h2>Items in the Home</h2> 
Prior to letting the property go, Austin sold 1500 items from the home, which she inherited along with the house after Mercury’s death. The items were sold at Sotheby’s, and the money raised went to the Mercury Phoenix Trust – a charity established by the remaining members of Queen that funds HIV/AIDS related initiatives and research –and to the Elton John Aids Foundation. 
Among the items was a replica of St Edward’s crown. The real version of this crown was worn by King Charles III, at his recent coronation. The original crown was made in 1661 and is named after Edward the Confessor. It is crafted with solid gold and is set with precious stones, the monarchy’s authority. The replica was worn by Mercury during Queen’s 1986 Magic Tour. Mercury wore the crown with a red velvet robe, emphasising his love of theatre and grandeur, a tongue-in-cheek gesture to his status as the undisputed king of the stage. Images of Mercury in the robe and the crown are among some of the most iconic of the singer. 
Also among the items auctioned were handwritten lyrics from some of Queen’s most famous songs and a handful of his stage costumes. Prior to the sale, some of the most famous pieces were toured as a display between New York, London, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong, allowing fans to see these much cherished items up close. 
The green garden door of Garden Lodge, of which Austin speaks so fondly, and which has been covered in handwritten notes of love and admiration from fans, was also sold at the auction for the staggering price of £412,750. Mercury paid the large sum of £500,000 for the home in 1980. It was listed for sale in 2024 for over £30 million. 
Speaking about the house ahead of the sale, Austin said: “It has been a joy to live in and I have so many wonderful memories here.” She expressed a desire to trust the sense of peace that she has felt in the home over the many years she has lived there to somebody else, in the hope that it will be for them, as it was for her and Mercury, a home for artists, music, and creativity. 
The rhapsody of design inside this bohemian home was destined to align with the unmistakable creativity and passion of its former owner. Just like his music, his legacy, and his status as one of the greatest icons of popular culture, it will stand for many years as a beautiful addition to the landscape, attracting attention and recognition for all the right reasons.{{ include_custom_fonts({"__BentonSans_2d01b9":["Light","Regular"],"__ActaDisplay_5dc6a7":["Light","Medium","Regular"]}) }}

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Wimbledon is a highly sought-after area in southwest London, primarily celebrated as the global stage for the world’s most prestigious tennis championship. Beyond its inescapable tennis renown, the neighbourhood is admired for its lush verdure, reputed schools, and prime real estate offerings.



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