Julien's Auctions is set to conclude our year-long "The Art of Playboy" series with a highly anticipated live and online auction titled "Fine Art of the Playboy Archive" on Wednesday, December 18th at Julien’s Studios in Los Angeles, Calif.

This auction follows the success of previous events, "Icons: Playboy, Hugh Hefner X Marilyn Monroe" and "Illustration Art of the Playboy Archive Auction," which collectively sold over a thousand rare pieces from the Playboy Enterprises archive. These sales showcased the breadth and depth of Playboy's cultural impact, going beyond the magazine's reputation to reveal a treasure trove of significant artistic and historical objects.

Bidding opens today in this final auction, which focuses on the "Fine Art of the Playboy Archive," and features over 350 items, including rare paintings, drawings, and sculptures that graced the pages of Playboy magazine from the 1950s to the 1990s. These works of art were created by some of Playboy's most celebrated artists, such as LeRoy Neiman, Alberto Vargas, and Richard Hunt, as well as Shel Silverstein, Robert Branham, Will Elder, Edward Avedisian, David Wedgbury, and many others. Many of these artists were championed by Hugh Hefner himself, particularly those from Chicago and the Midwest, reflecting his commitment to supporting emerging talent.

The artwork in this auction wasn't just decoration; it played an integral role in the magazine's content. These pieces were often commissioned to illustrate stories and articles written by some of the most renowned authors of the time, including Vladimir Nabokov, Roald Dahl, Joyce Carol Oates, Norman Mailer, and Ray Bradbury. This collaboration between visual artists and literary giants created a unique synergy within the pages of Playboy, elevating the magazine to a platform for both artistic expression and intellectual discourse.

Auction Highlights

Among the many highlights of the auction are:

LeRoy Neiman's oil on masonite "Jamaica Painting" (estimate: $30,000-$40,000). This vibrant piece captures the energy and allure of Jamaica, showcasing Neiman's signature style and his ability to evoke a sense of place and atmosphere.

Neiman's mixed media "Sotheby's Drawing" (estimate: $6,000-$8,000). This detailed drawing offers a glimpse into the world of high-end auctions, with Neiman's keen eye for observation and his ability to capture the essence of a scene.

Harvey Kurtzman and Will Elder's four mixed media on board panels, "Four Panel Little Annie Fanny Comic Strip" (estimate: $8,000-$12,000). This comic strip is a classic example of Kurtzman and Elder's satirical and humorous work, which pushed the boundaries of comic art and social commentary.

David Wedgbury "Bunny Casino Painting" (estimate: $800-$1,200). This playful painting combines the iconic Playboy Bunny with the excitement of a casino, showcasing Wedgbury's ability to capture the glamour and allure of the Playboy lifestyle.

Arthur "Art" Paul bronze 1981 printing plate of Playboy's Rabbit Head logo (estimate: $2,000-$3,000). This printing plate is a rare piece of Playboy history, representing the iconic logo that has become synonymous with the brand.

David Anstey's oil painting of Brigitte Bardot (estimate: $400-$600). This portrait captures the beauty and sensuality of the legendary actress, showcasing Anstey's talent for capturing the likeness and personality of his subjects.

Larry Fredericks Playboy Club Hotel at Lake Geneva (estimate: $600-$800). This painting provides a nostalgic glimpse into the heyday of the Playboy Clubs, capturing the atmosphere and excitement of these iconic establishments.

Two "Year of the Rabbit" Asian style Rabbit Head drawings (estimate: $600-$800). These unique drawings offer a different cultural perspective on the Playboy Rabbit Head logo, blending Eastern and Western artistic traditions.

Robert Branham Playboy's Weekend Hideaway architectural rendering (estimate: $600-$800). This architectural rendering provides a glimpse into the design and aesthetics of a Playboy-themed retreat, showcasing Branham's skill in architectural visualization.

HMH Collection

In addition to the aforementioned highlights, the auction will also feature items from the HMH Collection, which comprises Mid-century Modern works as well as Playboy memorabilia, clothing, furnishings, and decor from the Playboy Mansion. This collection offers a personal look into Hugh Hefner's life and tastes, showcasing his appreciation for art, design, and the finer things in life. Some of the notable items from this collection include:

Edward Advedisian 1968 red watercolor and gouache on paper abstract composition (estimate: $400-$600). This abstract piece reflects the artistic trends of the era, showcasing Advedisian's exploration of color and form.

Custom-made suede slippers embossed "Hugh Hefner" in gold lettering (estimate: $400-$600). These slippers are a testament to Hefner's personalized style and his appreciation for luxury and comfort.

Carved briar pipe with custom Playboy Rabbit Head Symbol (estimate: $2,000-$3,000). This pipe is a unique and personal item, reflecting Hefner's fondness for smoking and his association with the Playboy brand.

Hugh Hefner custom-made smoking jacket (estimate: $4,000-$6,000). This smoking jacket is a classic example of Hefner's sartorial style, reflecting his penchant for sophisticated and comfortable attire.

Personalized dominoes with "HMH and Rabbit Head logo (estimate: $400-$600). These dominoes are a personalized touch that reflects Hefner's playful side and his enjoyment of games and leisure activities.

Vintage Atari Centipede Arcade video game from the Playboy Mansion Game Room (estimate: $2,000-$3,000). This arcade game is a nostalgic reminder of the entertainment options available at the Playboy Mansion, reflecting Hefner's embrace of technology and popular culture.

Early plaster and wire Playboy Rabbit Head circa 1958 (estimate: $600-$800). This early rendition of the Playboy Rabbit Head logo is a rare and historical artifact, showcasing the evolution of the iconic symbol.

Custom printed Fender 40th Anniversary Playboy guitar in a custom red leather case (estimate: $8,000-$10,000). This custom-made guitar is a unique piece of Playboy memorabilia, reflecting the brand's association with music and entertainment.

Vintage Playboy bunny costumes. These costumes are iconic symbols of the Playboy Bunnies, representing the glamour and allure associated with the Playboy brand.

Live and Online Auction

The "Fine Art of the Playboy Archive" auction will take place on Wednesday, December 18th at 10:00 am Pacific Time at Julien's Studios in Los Angeles. The auction will also be accessible online via Julien's Auctions.

This auction presents a unique opportunity to acquire rare and iconic pieces of Playboy history. Whether you are an art collector, a Playboy enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, this event is not to be missed.

It offers a chance to own a piece of the Playboy legacy and to connect with the artistic and cultural heritage of this iconic brand. Register and bid now.