An iconic collar that the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg wore is being auctioned off by Potomack Auctions in Alexandria, and Thursday is the last day for bids.
The auction closes September 21 for the Pegasus limited edition bib by Stella & Dot. The justice wore the silver metallic collar in an official 2018 Supreme Court justices photograph.
“The Notorious RBG’s Pegasus collar will be remembered as an important 21st century historical artifact that silently spoke volumes about her fierce dedication to the cause of women’s rights. The collar conveyed RBG’s belief that women need to tackle adversity, and to armor themselves and remain strong in the ongoing battle for equality,” said Elizabeth Haynie Wainstein, owner of The Potomack Company.
“It’s a unique piece of modern material culture, and it tells an important story about America and a great American. The Pegasus collar captures the essence of Justice Ginsburg and her passion for the cause of equality.”
Fashion is one way women have historically communicated powerful messages, including Ginsburg. The auction comes three years after her death and just ahead of the November 14 release of the book, “The Collars of RBG: A Portrait of Justice” by Elinor Carucci and Sara Bader. The book features 25 of Ginsburg’s neckpieces and the stories behind them.
Two years ago, Potomack Auctions sold Ginsburg’s modern art and memorabilia collection for more than $1 million to benefit the Washington National Opera. The auction house will donate a percentage of the commission from the collar’s auction to the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Endowed Fund for Research in Civil Rights and Gender Equality.
In addition to the collar, the auction lot includes a piece of lace give to Gilbert Stuart by Martha Washington to include in the Stuart’s depictions of George Washington. Stuart is known for his numerous portraits of the first president, according to the National Gallery of Art. Lace in the 18th century was “the ultimate power accessory,” according to Mount Vernon.
Bids for the lot may reach between $200,000 and $400,000, according to Axios. At 8:30 a.m. Thursday, there were five bidders, with the highest bid at $195,000.
Feature image courtesy Potomack Auctions
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