The estate auction of renowned Austrian musician Udo Jürgens, known for his captivating hits like "Merci Chérie" and "Griechischer Wein," is set to begin online today, January 23, 2025, at Sotheby’s auction house located at Gustav-Heinemann-Ufer, Cologne. This unique event not only offers fans the chance to own pieces of Jürgens' legacy but also aims to benefit young people in need.
The auction showcases 99 personal items from Jürgens' estate, including his iconic glass piano, which carries an estimated value between €20,000 and €30,000. This stunning instrument was famously flown to Jungfraujoch with the aid of a helicopter for one of his unforgettable performances. Recalling the experience, Jürgens reportedly remarked, "I have never been so cold," emphasizing the lengths he went to for his craft.
Among the remarkable memorabilia are signature pieces such as footwear, clothing, and even luxury cars. A lavish dark blue Bentley convertible owned by Jürgens is another highlight, expected to fetch several thousands of euros. Lesser-known items, like pocket squares and personalized writing instruments, also provide insight and charm to the auction collection, aiming to appeal to collectors and fans alike.
Jürgens' children, Jenny and John, shared their reasons for selecting these items for the auction. They stated, "After long and careful consideration, we have decided to make some carefully selected mementos from his life accessible to the people who meant so much to him: his fans." By curtailing their father's personal collection, they hope to preserve his memory and reinforce the ties he forged with his audience throughout his illustrious career.
Pepe Lienhard, Jürgens’ longtime friend and musical collaborator, remarked on the emotional connection many fans have with these items. He noted, "Udo had many hardcore fans. For them, it will be especially nice to be able to bid on something personal, like his bathrobe," referencing the distinctive white bathrobe Jürgens would wear during live performances. This bathrobe, bearing signatures from prominent German soccer players, is estimated to sell for between €150 and €200.
This auction has generated excitement among fans who have been gathered since last week to preview the items, leading to eager bidding anticipated as the auction progresses. The total estimate for the entire collection ranges from €370,000 to €500,000, reflecting Jürgens' impactful contributions to music and culture, even years after his passing.
Scheduled to conclude on January 30, 2025, the auction provides fans with the rare opportunity to connect with Jürgens' legacy through the ownership of personal treasures. With bids starting as low as €1, there are items accessible for every budget, including smaller collectibles like two wing-shaped ashtrays and even artistic pieces by Mr. Lienhard himself.
Jürgens' legacy extends beyond just his songs; it includes numerous awards and recognitions, with three Swiss awards currently up for bid – including the Crystal Award and the Lifetime Award bestowed upon him posthumously. These accolades were not only symbols of his success but also affirmations of his powerful influence on generations of music lovers.
Fans of Jürgens will no doubt find joy not just simply from owning pieces of this remarkable artist’s memorabilia, but from the shared stories and memories tied to these items. Each item holds sentimental value, evoking moments of nostalgia and appreciation for Jürgens' contributions to music and culture.
With such personal items available, this estate auction encapsulates the spirit of Udo Jürgens, inviting his dedicated followers and new fans alike to participate and find their own meaningful connection to the artist’s timeless legacy. The auction is not just about the thrill of bidding but transforming these cherished memories back to the public who adored him throughout his life.