First Open brings together exemplary works by the world’s leading and most in‑demand post‑war and contemporary artists, including Richard Diebenkorn, Helen Frankenthaler, Ernst Yohji Jäger, Andy Warhol, Jenna Gribbon, Sean Scully and Elaine de Kooning.

With estimates ranging from US$500 to US$300,000, First Open offers a wide‑ranging survey of 20th‑ and 21st‑century art for both new and seasoned collectors.

This season, we are honoured to feature drawings from the Collection of the Late Janie C. Lee, sold for the benefit of the Menil Drawing Institute. Janie’s collection brings together a distinguished cross‑section of the most influential artists of the past century, spanning modern masters Henri Matisse and Alberto Giacometti to post‑war legends Cy Twombly, Lucian Freud, Wayne Thiebaud and Ellsworth Kelly.

This remarkable grouping demonstrates a connoisseurship and passion for the quiet, lasting power of drawing.

Select highlights are on preview at our Rockefeller Center galleries; the remaining lots will be available for viewings at our Brooklyn warehouse by appointment only.

Lots from this auction will be located at our Brooklyn warehouse following the close of the sale. For collection arrangements or further information, please contact Post-Sale Services at PostsaleUS@christies.com.

View the collection catalogue