Recently, a significant chapter in the world of collecting closed as Sotheby’s auctioned 13 French military paintings from the illustrious Forbes collection, marking the end of an era. Malcolm Forbes, celebrated for his vibrant personality, adventurous lifestyle, and the iconic Forbes magazine, was also a fervent collector. His collection was a fascinating mix, ranging from military art to Faberge Eggs, and an extensive array of autographs.
Forbes’ collection was a historical and artistic treasure trove. Among its most renowned pieces were the Faberge Eggs, exquisite jeweled masterpieces once owned by Russian czars. At one time, Forbes possessed more of these eggs than were left in Moscow. His collection also featured military art, including paintings and watercolors by notable French artists from the Franco-Prussian War era, which were recently auctioned at Sotheby’s.
The Forbes collection was more than just art; it was a portal into history. Visitors to the Forbes magazine offices could admire paintings depicting the Franco-Prussian War, artifacts from the Russian monarchy, and even childhood toys like toy soldiers. Among the most prized items were historical documents, such as Robert E. Lee’s note to Ulysses S. Grant, symbolizing the end of the Civil War.
The Collector’s Passion
For those with a love for collecting, the Forbes collection was a dream realized. It demonstrated what could be achieved with passion, resources, and the opportunity to gather such a diverse array of items. Forbes’ enthusiasm for history and military artifacts resonated with me, as I too have been captivated by the collecting bug.
My own collecting journey began in my youth, influenced by my parents’ interest in antiques. While living in Great Britain, I accompanied them on antiquing trips, acquiring chess sets or bladed weapons with my modest earnings. Although my hobby paused during college, it reignited later, leading me to build a modest collection of chess sets, military pictures, and other historical artifacts.
Understanding the Collector’s Mindset
To truly grasp the allure of collecting, one must be a collector. The thrill of the hunt, the quest for a unique piece, and the joy of finding something personally meaningful are experiences that unite collectors. Whether it’s beer steins, napkin rings, or even frogs, each collector’s passion is unique and often inexplicable to others.
Collecting is not just about the items themselves, but the stories they tell and the history they represent. For instance, my collection includes busts of Felix Dzerzhinsky and Lavrenti Beria, notorious figures in Soviet history. While controversial, these pieces offer a glimpse into a different era and provoke thought about the past.
The Joy of Collecting
Despite occasional controversy, most collectibles are benign, serving as conversation starters or cherished memories. The market for collectibles can be unpredictable, as seen with the rise and fall of Beanie Babies, but the passion for collecting remains unwavering.
Ultimately, collecting is a harmless hobby that brings joy to those who engage in it. Whether it’s fondling books or admiring a bird, everyone finds their passion in different places. For me, it’s the thrill of discovering a unique piece of history, like a carved Soviet T-34 tank with a chess clock, that fuels my collecting spirit.
Though the Forbes collection has been dispersed, the memories and inspiration it provided continue to influence collectors like me. As I sit surrounded by my own collection, I am reminded of the enduring allure of history and the stories waiting to be uncovered.
