Christie’s to Auction $2.8 Million USD Photo Collection of Former U.S. Ambassador

Christie's to Auction $2.8 Million USD Photo Collection of Former U.S. Ambassador

As a seasoned gamer, my eyes light up at the sight of such a treasure trove! The photography collection of Trevor Traina, a man who’s lived multiple lives – from a brand manager to an art world advisor, and even a U.S. ambassador, promises a captivating journey through the annals of photographic history.


Christie’s is planning to sell Trevor Traina’s photography collection, previously held by the former U.S. ambassador to Austria, on October 3 in New York City. This auction includes pieces from renowned postwar and contemporary artists such as Diane Arbus, William Eggleston, Robert Frank, Nan Goldin, and Cindy Sherman. The potential value of these works is estimated to be as high as $2.8 million. Eggleston’s Greenwood, Mississippi (Red Ceiling) 1973 could potentially sell for around $300,000 USD.

Born in San Francisco and with a background in technology entrepreneurship, Traina initially worked as a brand manager at Seagram’s. Later, he moved to the art sector, offering advice to San Francisco’s Fine Arts Museums and UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business. Nominated as an ambassador by Donald Trump, Traina’s collection showcases the transformation of photography from its documentary origins into a respected contemporary art form. Notable pieces include Robert Frank’s trailblazing The Americans and Diane Arbus’s captivating portraits of societal outskirts.

As a long-time art enthusiast and collector, I find it truly captivating to observe the evolution of photography as an accepted form of artistic expression. Having had the privilege of visiting the de Young Museum in San Francisco, I was enthralled by the Traina Collection, which showcased the rise of female photographers and the acceptance of color photography as a legitimate art form. Despite initial resistance from purists who adhered to the traditional black-and-white aesthetic, the collection served as a testament to the power of progress and the importance of challenging established norms.

As a seasoned art collector with over two decades of experience, I find myself drawn to Christie’s Los Angeles for their upcoming auction in October. The opportunity to view selected works from September 10-12 before they go under the hammer is always an exciting one, as it allows me to get a closer look at potential new additions to my collection.

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2024-08-12 22:56