London – Christie’s Barry Humphries: The Personal Collection auction on 13 February 2025 will present a special opportunity to explore the literary tastes of Barry Humphries (1934–2023) through a selection of highlights from his extraordinary personal book collection. This rare offering provides a fascinating glimpse into the intellectual curiosity of the world-renowned Australian performer, famed for his characters Dame Edna Everage and Sir Les Patterson. Humphries’s lifelong passion for literature and history is reflected in this diverse and carefully curated assortment, featuring the best of fin-de-siecle literature including significant works by Oscar Wilde and rarities by major poets and authors of the era.

Books and Manuscripts represent approximately 80 lots within the overall collection and brings together an eclectic mix of titles, each chosen for its cultural significance and connection to Humphries's personal interests. Lots include an exceptional presentation copy of Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest (illustrated below, 1 of 12 copies), along with other rare Wilde Wildeana such as an inscribed first edition of Oscar Wilde’s Salomé (illustrated below).

Mark Wiltshire, Specialist, Books and Manuscripts at Christie’s: “Barry Humphries’s collection of books and manuscripts is a rare and significant treasure trove, reflecting a deep intellectual engagement with some of the most important works in literature’s most decadent era. Spanning a range authors—from the sharp wit of Oscar Wilde to the effervescence of F. Scott Fitgerald—this collection offers invaluable insight into the cultural and artistic movements that shaped the modern world. A truly captivating collection which has been a delight to spend time with.”

Benedict Winter, Associate Director, Private & Iconic Collections, Christie’s London: “Barry Humphries is best remembered for his comedic genius, but behind this famous figure was a true polymath and connoisseur. His passion for collecting and his insatiable appetite for deepening his knowledge was the driving force behind the acquisition of these fascinating and very diverse works of art. This refined and engaging collection provides compelling insights into the private world of this very public performer. Wherever you are, I encourage you to browse online at Christies.com; we look forward to welcoming everyone to the free public view at our headquarters in London.”

The full pre-sale exhibition will be open to the public from 7 to 12 February 2025 at Christie’s London headquarters. As well as the remarkable literary items, the sale will showcase highlights from Humphries’s collection of art, design, and personal memorabilia, including costume and ‘face furniture’ associated with Dame Edna Everage. To register for the press call at Christie’s King Street on 7 February 2025, please see contact details below.

Selected Highlights across Books and Manuscripts

(Press Release)