Masterpieces on the Block: The Mullin Collection and Bugatti’s Artistic Heritage

Hero Image:Carlo Bugatti’s furniture – The Peter Mullin Collection; above: Rembrandt Bugatti’s Dancing Elephant replica

In the dazzling world of Bugatti, beauty and craftsmanship reign supreme, echoing a legacy that transcends the mere mechanics of automobiles. The forthcoming Bonhams auction on 24 July offers a unique opportunity to witness this legacy firsthand through the Mullin Collection—an extraordinary tribute to the artistic brilliance of the Bugatti family.

The Bugatti brand, revered for its elegance and innovation, owes much of its allure to the creative vision of its founder, Ettore Bugatti. Yet, the story of Bugatti is a family saga, deeply influenced by Ettore’s father, Carlo, a distinguished furniture designer, and his brother, Rembrandt, a celebrated sculptor. Their timeless creations, much like Ettore’s magnificent cars, have left an indelible mark on the world of art and design.

Enter Peter Mullin (1941-2023), the quintessential American businessman and philanthropist, whose passion for Bugatti was nothing short of legendary. Known as ‘Mr BUGATTI in America,’ Mullin’s fervour for the marque led him to curate one of the world’s most impressive Bugatti collections. His fascination with the brand extended beyond the cars themselves to encompass the entire artistic lineage of the Bugatti family.

Mullin’s collection, a breathtaking assembly of automotive marvels and exquisite artworks, became the heart of the Mullin Automotive Museum, founded in 2010. The museum stands as a testament to Mullin’s vision, showcasing rare gems like the Type 57SC Atlantic and the 1925 Type 22 Brescia, while also celebrating the artistic genius of Carlo and Rembrandt Bugatti.

Carlo Bugatti (1856-1940) was a maestro of design, seamlessly blending organic shapes with Orientalist and Gothic motifs. His furniture, crafted from sumptuous materials like wood, silk, vellum, and copper, continues to inspire modern designers, including the likes of Martyn Lawrence Bullard. At theBonhamsauction, Carlo’s masterpieces will be on full display—intricately crafted chairs, desks, tables, and display cabinets that embody his inimitable style. Notable among them is Carlo’s Mirrored Hall Tree, circa 1888, a stunning piece estimated to fetch between $20,000 and $30,000.

Rembrandt Bugatti (1884-1916), Ettore’s brother, was a sculptor of rare talent, whose dynamic bronze sculptures of exotic animals have captivated collectors for over a century. His profound love for wildlife inspired works like the ‘Dancing Elephant,’ which became the iconic radiator cap for the Bugatti Type 41, the ‘Royale.’ Among the highlights of the auction is Rembrandt’s ‘Petite Panthère Assise,’ a bronze sculpture with a dark brown patina, estimated to sell for between $150,000 and $250,000.

The auction also features treasures directly linked to Ettore Bugatti himself, such as a meticulously restored Type 52 Bugatti ‘Baby’ car from 1927 and a motoring trunk once owned by Ettore, emblazoned with the iconic ‘EB’ initials. These items, rich with history and personal significance, offer a glimpse into the life of the man behind the legend.

Adding to the allure of the sale are exquisite glass sculptures by René Lalique, a close friend and collaborator of the Bugatti family. Lalique’s pieces, moulded with meticulous artistry, reflect the shared passion for aesthetics that united him with Ettore and Rembrandt. These sculptures, proudly displayed in the Mullin Automotive Museum, exemplify the elegance of the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements that also influenced Jean Bugatti, Ettore’s son, and the designer of the Type 57SC Atlantic.

Peter Mullin’s collection is more than just an assemblage of beautiful objects; it is a celebration of the Bugatti family’s artistic legacy. It captures the essence of a brand that has seamlessly blended art and engineering for over a century. The Bonhams auction is not merely a sale; it is a homage to the timeless influence of a family of artists, whose creativity continues to resonate in the world of Bugatti today.

For those who find themselves captivated by the exquisite convergence of art and automotive excellence, the Mullin Collection auction is a must-see event—where the past and present of Bugatti artistry come to life in a dazzling showcase.