Bonhams & Butterfields is to offer property from the Estate of José Iturbi and Marion Seabury, sold to benefit the José Iturbi Foundation, on June 2, 2008 in Los Angeles. The magnificent Beverly Hills estate brings together three fascinating histories — each providing a glimpse into the “Golden Era” of Hollywood and the grandeur of its culture, including the infamous Countess Dorothy di Frasso, the famed decorator and tastemaker to society Elsie de Wolfe, and the world famous pianist, conductor, composer and actor José Iturbi.

The proceeds from the June 2nd auction will benefit the José Iturbi Foundation. The organization pays tribute to Iturbi’s dream and lifelong ambition to make classical music accessible to all as part of our daily framework. Each year, the Foundation sponsors an international music competition hosting 48 of the world’s most gifted young classical pianists and singers, and offering the largest cash prizes of any competition to assist them in their career ambitions.

The Estate of José Iturbi and Marion Seabury will be offered at auction on June 2, 2008. Public previews open — Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31 (10am-5pm, each day), continuing on Sunday, June 1 (from Noon-5pm). The illustrated auction catalog will be available online at www.bonhams.com/us in the weeks preceding the sale and previews.

Posted: 05|17|08 at 10:52 am. Filed under: US News.