Elizabeth Taylor. The name itself conjures a cascade of images: violet eyes that shimmered with wit and passion, a love affair with jewels that redefined the art of adornment, and a personal style that was as audacious as it was elegant. This March 27th, at the opulent Peninsula Beverly Hills, and online, we invite you to step into the intoxicating world of this cinematic and sartorial icon with "Bold Luxury: The Limelight Edit," featuring twenty extraordinary artifacts from The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor.

More than just a Hollywood star, Taylor was a connoisseur of the exquisite. Her taste, honed by a life lived in the spotlight, was a masterclass in discerning luxury. It wasn't merely about possessing; it was about curating, about understanding the artistry and history woven into each piece. As Merideth Etherington Smith, curator of the 2011 Taylor collection, aptly noted, it was "a fashion equivalent of Tutankhamun's tomb," a treasure trove assembled with a personal touch, long before the era of red-carpet stylists.

Our auction offers a rare glimpse into this intimate collection, revealing the nuances of Taylor's aesthetic. Take, for instance, the Hermès Violet Cashmere Throw. In shades of her signature purple, a nod to her mesmerizing eyes, this throw is a testament to her appreciation for tactile luxury. Even with its delicate moth-hole damage, it whispers stories of quiet moments in a life often lived in the grandest of settings.

Then there is the 1964 Gold and Diamond Evening Purse, a piece immortalized in photographs of Taylor and Richard Burton at the Lido premiere in Paris. This isn't just an accessory; it's a historical artifact, a tangible link to a moment when Hollywood royalty reigned supreme. The “Liz” diamond plaque, the basket-woven gold, the mirrored interior – it all speaks to a woman who understood the power of detail. "You can’t possess radiance; you can only admire it," she once said, and this purse, with its diamond embellishments, is a perfect illustration of that philosophy.

Taylor's love for haute couture is evident in the Christian Dior 1960s Marc Bohan Orange Evening Gown. Bohan, the longest-serving creative director at Dior, understood the essence of femininity. His designs, as Alexander Fury notes, centered on "la femme," and Taylor, a devoted client, embodied that spirit. The tangerine hue, the structured silhouette, the impeccable craftsmanship – this gown is a masterclass in mid-century elegance, a testament to Bohan’s “faultless chic.”

Of course, no exploration of Taylor's taste would be complete without delving into her legendary jewelry collection. The Ruby, Diamond, and Gold Necklace and Earring Set is a bold statement, a symphony of color and texture. The lion's head motif, the vibrant rubies, the sparkling diamonds – it's a piece that demands attention, reflecting Taylor's own larger-than-life persona.

Her practical elegance also shines through, as demonstrated by the 1964 Cartier Yellow Straw Shoulder Bag. Photographed on the set of "The Night of the Iguana," this bag is a testament to her ability to seamlessly blend high fashion with everyday life. The woven straw, the rolled leather, the meticulously organized interior – it's a piece that speaks to her innate sense of style, a style that was as functional as it was fashionable.

The Two Pairs of Chanel Clip-On Earrings reflect her appreciation for the timeless allure of Chanel. Whether it's the faux diamond and mabe pearl earrings or the four-leaf clover design, these pieces epitomize the brand's classic elegance, a staple in Taylor's wardrobe. The Yellow Beaded Embellished Floral Lace Mini Dress illustrates her embrace of the youthful, vibrant styles of the late 60s and early 70s, showcasing her ability to adapt and evolve her look.

Liz Taylor’s Conversion

Taylor converted to Judaism in 1959 at the age of 27. She underwent her conversion at Temple Israel in Hollywood, California, under the guidance of Rabbi Max Nussbaum, who developed a special curriculum for her that included studying the Bible and various books on Jewish history and philosophy. Taylor’s conversion to Judaism is poignantly represented by the Theo Fennell Diamond and Gold Star of David Pendant. This piece, designed by Theo Fennell, is a beautiful blend of faith and artistry, a personal symbol of her spiritual journey. The Art Deco Emerald and Diamond Brooch, Circa 1935, is a stunning example of her appreciation for vintage jewelry, its intricate design and vibrant gemstones a testament to the timeless appeal of Art Deco elegance.

The Screen Worn "Cleopatra" Irene Sharraf Egyptian Revival Embroidered Evening Robe is a cinematic treasure, a piece that transports us back to the grandeur of one of Hollywood's most iconic films. The meticulously embroidered motifs, the vibrant saffron yellow, the historical significance – this robe is a masterpiece of costume design, a testament to Sharraf's genius and Taylor's enduring legacy.

The Tina Lesar Yellow Silk Jacquard Embellished Evening Coat and the Chanel Spring 1993 Quilted Cream Patent Leather Tote showcase her ability to seamlessly blend vintage charm with contemporary chic. The Emilio Pucci Pink and Multi-Color Velvet Dress with Matching Tights and the 1994 Louis Vuitton Epi Leather Monceau Bag further illustrate her eclectic taste, her ability to embrace different styles and trends.

The Diamond Brooch gifted from Malcolm Forbes to Elizabeth Taylor is a testament to her personal relationships, a piece that carries with it a story of friendship and admiration. The Valentino Red Velvet and Satin Ball Gown with Matching Beaded Satin Evening Bag is a showstopper, a testament to her enduring friendship with Valentino Garavani and her love for his iconic designs.

Finally, the collection of French Company Louis Vuitton Luggage offers a glimpse into her jet-setting lifestyle, her constant travels, and her appreciation for the practicality and elegance of Louis Vuitton.

"Bold Luxury: The Limelight Edit" is more than just an auction; it's an invitation to experience the world through Elizabeth Taylor's eyes, to understand the artistry, the passion, and the unwavering sense of style that made her a true icon. Register and bid now. These twenty pieces, each with its own story to tell – offer a rare and intimate glimpse into the life of a woman who defined glamour for generations to come.