ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Christie's to Auction Joanna Carson Collection Featuring Henry Moore Sculpture and Matisse Bronzes

market-auction · 2026-04-21

Christie's will offer The Joanna Carson Collection, featuring art and jewels from the philanthropist's Los Angeles residence. The collection includes a rare Henry Moore sculpture titled Double Standing Figure, conceived in 1950, with an estimate of $2-4 million. This large-scale work was purchased by Joanna Carson and her then-husband Johnny Carson during their marriage and remained central to her collection for decades. Also featured are bronzes by Henri Matisse and other Impressionist and Modern art icons. Joanna Carson, remembered for her philanthropy and work in fashion and theater as a model and Broadway producer, moved into the Los Angeles home in the 1970s. The collection is united by themes of timeless beauty and the human form. The sale highlights significant charitable endeavors alongside her artistic legacy.

Key facts

  • Christie's announced The Joanna Carson Collection auction
  • Collection includes rare Henry Moore sculpture Double Standing Figure
  • Sculpture estimate is $2-4 million
  • Collection features Matisse bronzes and other Impressionist/Modern art
  • Art comes from Joanna Carson's Los Angeles residence
  • Joanna Carson was a philanthropist, model, and Broadway producer
  • She moved into the Los Angeles home in the 1970s with Johnny Carson
  • Collection explores themes of timeless beauty and human form

Entities

Artists

  • Henry Moore
  • Henri Matisse

Institutions

  • Christie's

Locations

  • Los Angeles
  • United States

Sources