John L. Marion
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
John L. Marion | |
|---|---|
| Education | Fordham University Columbia University |
| Occupations | Auctioneer, philanthropist |
| Spouse | Anne Windfohr Marion |
John L. Marion is an American auctioneer and philanthropist. He served as the Chairman of Sotheby's (NYSE: BID) from 1975 to 1994.
Marion was born in Gardiner, New York.[1] His father, Louis J. Marion, was the President of Parke-Bernet Galleries.[1] He graduated from Fordham University in New York City in 1956.[1][2] He then served as a lieutenant in the United States Navy.[1] He went on to study the decorative arts at Columbia University.[1]
Career
He started his career as an auctioneer at Sotheby's in 1960.[2] He became president in 1972 and Chairman in 1975.[1][3] During the course of his career, he oversaw the sale of Irises by Vincent van Gogh for US$53.9 million, Yo Picasso for US$47.9 million and Au Lapin Agile for US$40.7 million (both of which by Pablo Picasso), as well as Interchange by Willem de Kooning for US$20.7 million, and False Start for US$17 million and Two Flags US$12.1 million (both of which are by Jasper Johns).[4][5]
In 1989, with Christopher Andersen, he co-wrote, The Best of Everything: The Insider's Guide to Collecting--For Every Taste and Every Budget, published by Simon & Schuster.[6] The book suggests anyone can attend auctions and become a collector, even on a limited budget.[4][5]
He retired in 1994.[2] He still serves on its Advisory Board.[7][8]
