A Diverse Collection on Offer

The auction, which will feature personal artifacts such as:

• Bradford’s cherished typewriter
• Paintings of her beloved dogs
• Jewellery pieces
• Rare first editions of her literary works
• Memoirs gifted to her by British prime ministers

offers a unique insight into Bradford’s life and passions.

About Barbara Taylor Bradford

Barbara Taylor Bradford, a renowned British author and journalist, rose to prominence with her groundbreaking 1979 novel, A Woman of Substance. She passed away in November 2024, at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of over 40 published novels and more than 92 million copies sold worldwide.

In recognition of her significant contributions to literature, Bradford was honored with an OBE and received the prestigious Platinum Bestseller Award from Nielsen, celebrating her remarkable sales achievements in the UK.

Details of the Auction

The collection will begin its tour through Doyle’s galleries, stopping in Palm Beach and Beverly Hills, California, before culminating in a public exhibition at Doyle New York starting on May 3 from 12 PM to 5 PM. A live auction is scheduled for May 7, with provisions for online and telephone bidding.

Moments from Her Life

Randy Jones, co-trustee of The Barbara Taylor Bradford Trust, reflected on the significance of the items in the auction, stating:

“The pieces in this auction offer a rare glimpse into Barbara Taylor Bradford’s remarkable life – one defined by elegance, ambition and an unyielding dedication to storytelling. Each item reflects not only her impeccable taste but also the extraordinary journey she shared with her beloved husband, Bob. This collection is a tribute to her enduring legacy, inviting admirers and collectors alike to own a part of her world.”

Highlights of the auction will include signed first editions of memoirs from influential figures such as Paul Robeson and former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, along with two signed photographs of Anthony Hopkins, who starred in the adaptation of Bradford’s novel To Be The Best.

A Lifetime of Elegance

Throughout her life, Barbara and her husband, Robert Bradford, shared adventures across Europe and the Caribbean, collecting a variety of items reflective of their sophisticated tastes. The auction will present selected pieces from their collection, including:

• Art and porcelain
• Art Deco and Biedermeier furniture
• Silverware
• First-edition books
• Winston Churchill memorabilia

A Legacy of Literary Collectibles

Peter Costanzo, Doyle’s executive director of books, autographs and photographs, emphasized the significance of author memorabilia in the auction market, stating:

“This collection reflects a life of elegance, intellect and artistry, offering a glimpse into the world of one of the most successful writers of our time. Author memorabilia has consistently attracted significant interest at auctions, reflecting a deep appreciation for literary figures and their works. The provenance and historical significance of such items often drive their desirability and value in the auction market.”