Truman Capote's ashes to be auctioned in Los Angeles

Truman Capote's ashes, kept in a carved Japanese wooden box from the collection of his close friend Joanne Carson (who died last year at 83), will be auctioned by Julien's Auctions in Los Angeles on September 23-24 as part of the 'Icon & Idols: Hollywood' sale. The announcement was made on August 25, the anniversary of his death, three days after the 32nd anniversary of his cremation on August 28, 1984. The starting estimate is $2,000 (estimate $4,000–$6,000). Julien's president Darren Julien stated: 'Capote would have loved this auction.' This is the first time human ashes have been auctioned, raising moral questions. A portion of the ashes was previously given to Capote's lifelong partner Jack Dunphy. The auction also includes clothing, accessories, ice skates, magazines, books, artworks, medications, and memorabilia of other stars.