News Item: 00010

17th Jan 2007

Bonhams to sell Vanessa Mae's violin

Source: http://www.bonhams.com

The white electric violin made famous by the critically acclaimed classical musician Vanessa-Mae is to be sold by Bonhams, with the expected £10,000-15,000 proceeds going to the charity, Breast Cancer Haven. The violin, which has been signed "Vanessa-Mae", will feature in Bonhams' inaugural "What Women Want" Sale on 18 January 2007 at 101 New Bond Street, London.

The white Zeta Quartet Series Jazz Electric Midi 4-string violin is in many respects Vanessa-Mae's trademark, epitomising the contemporary nature of her performances and the blend of modern with classical music.

The violin has featured on several of Vanessa's album and DVD covers, as well as much of her promotional material. It was specially adapted for her and was used on the "Storm Tour".

A child prodigy, Vanessa began playing the violin when she was five year old. By age 13, she had produced three classical albums and, in 1995, her album "The Violin Player" sold over a million copies, bringing her worldwide recognition. Earlier this year, the Singapore-born violinist was ranked as the UK's wealthiest young entertainer in the Sunday Times Rich List.

Paul Arengo-Jones, Chief Executive, Breast Cancer Haven said: "We are absolutely thrilled that Vanessa Mae has donated her wonderful white violin for auction to raise funds for Breast Cancer Haven. The money will ensure that many more people affected by breast cancer will be able to receive the free support, information and complementary therapies that Breast Cancer Haven offers."

Vanessa-Mae's violin will feature in Bonhams' inaugural auction of 300-lots of luxury items dedicated to "What Women Want". It is aimed at women who love to shop; those who enjoy the best of everything and most of all love a good bargain.

The sale on 18 January will comprise vintage, contemporary and collectable fashion, jewellery, watches, silver, furniture and works of art, luxury travel goods and fun automotive power, including the ex-Robbie Williams 2002 Smart Crossblade car at £10,000-12,000.

Luxury brand names will be in abundance throughout the auction including Asprey, Hermès, Fendi, Gucci, Rolex, Cartier, and Bulgari and all sale items will go on view from Friday 12 January 2007.

At the same time, an exhibition of photographs will be held at 101 New Bond Street. Celebrities such as Will Young, Annie Lennox, Bryan Adams and Mary McCartney have all contributed images representing their interpretation of what women want. The photographs will be available to buy in a Silent Auction, with proceeds going to the charity Breast Cancer Haven.