Andy Warhol: Shot Sage Blue Marilyn

The legendary Thomas and Doris #Ammann collection headed to the block last night with an iconic "Shot Sage Blue Marilyn," leading the way, or as head of sale, Alex Rotter, says, "these are generational paintings, every generation one comes out." The Marilyn fetched a hammer of $170MM which comes out to $195MM with auction fees.

Christie's is taking a buyer's premium, but the 100% of proceeds from the sale are going directly to funding aid for children, in particular the area of medical aid that also includes children from Ukraine currently being helped in Switzerland where the Ammann Foundation is set up. And now the buyer of the "Marilyn" has been be invited to partner with the Foundation to nominate the charities to which 20% of the proceeds will be allocated (subject to the Foundation’s final approval, natch). A rarity for charity, we must say.

And as you may have seen last week, we went over to Christie's to get the scoop on not just this painting, but the #Warhol market in general. Stay tuned for more videos on Warhol and other top lots from their big auction week.