Cheffins will be offering the contents of the studio of the famous costume designer, Michael Stennett, at the Art & Design sale on 24th February.
Michael Stennett's studio in Yoxford, Suffolk
Michael Stennett had an illustrious career as a costume designer, working in partnership with The Metropolitan Opera, New York, The Royal Opera House, Drottningholm Court Theatre, Sweden, English National Opera, Ottawa Festival, Malmö Ballet, Welsh National Opera and, extensively, with the Australian Opera. He designed costumes for many famous performers, including Rudolf Nureyev, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Glenda Jackson, and, perhaps most notably, for his close friend, Dame Joan Sutherland.
Based in Yoxford, near Sudbury, Michael Stennett retired from the stage and screen in 1994 and developed his career as a painter before passing away in September 2020.
Michael Stennett with Dame Joan Sutherland, provided by the Stennett family
Included within the collection are approximately 300 works by Michael himself, as well as ones which he bought or was given by other artists. These include numerous works by his friend, Tessa Newcomb and the artist Patrick Proctor. Michael Stennett was also a model maker and jewellery designer and a number of these will be offered at the sale, including pieces worn by Glenda Jackson in the series Elizabeth R.
The net proceeds of the sale of The Michael Stennett Collection will be gifted to Historic Royal Palaces, the registered charity that cares for six royal palaces and their collections.
Auction: The Art & Design Sale – Thursday 24th February 2022
Location: Cheffins, Clifton House, 1-2 Clifton Road, Cambridge, UK, CB1 7EA
For further information contact the Fine Art Department on 01223 213343, fine.art@cheffins.co.uk