RB Global Celebrates Philanthropy at Robert Day Estate Auction Featuring 700+ Art Lots
- John Moran Auctioneers will host "The Estate of Robert Day" auction on July 29-30, 2025, in Los Angeles.
- The auction features over 700 lots, celebrating Robert Day's philanthropic legacy in education, science, and the arts.
- Proceeds from the event highlight the impact of philanthropy and inspire future generations of donors.
Celebrating a Philanthropic Legacy: The Estate of Robert Day Auction
John Moran Auctioneers is preparing to host a pivotal two-day auction titled "The Estate of Robert Day" on July 29th and 30th, 2025, at their Los Angeles location, starting at 10 AM PDT. The auction features over 700 exceptional lots from the collection of Robert A. Day, a distinguished California philanthropist whose contributions have significantly shaped education, science, and the arts. This event not only serves as a marketplace for fine art and decorative pieces but also as a tribute to Day’s enduring legacy, marked by his passion for philanthropy and cultural enrichment.
The auction will include an impressive array of artworks and artifacts, showcasing renowned artists such as Montague Dawson, Edgar Payne, William Wendt, and Richard MacDonald. Among the highlights are a striking pair of Tiffany & Co. sterling silver 15-light candelabra and a luxurious 'Chrysanthemum' silver gilt flatware service. These items reflect the refined tastes of Day, who was not only an astute investor but also a civic leader dedicated to the advancement of society through his charitable initiatives. The breadth and quality of the auction items encapsulate the essence of Day's contributions to the cultural landscape of California and beyond.
Robert A. Day's impact extends far beyond his collection of art. As the founder of Trust Company of the West in 1971, he grew the firm into a leading asset management entity, while also directing substantial philanthropic efforts through the W. M. Keck Foundation. His remarkable contributions, which include over $2 billion in grants aimed at advancing education and scientific research, are evident in institutions like USC, Caltech, UCLA, and Claremont McKenna College. Notably, Day’s $200 million donation to establish the Robert Day Scholars Program exemplifies his commitment to fostering educational opportunities. This auction not only celebrates his refined collection but also underscores a legacy of mentorship and civic responsibility that continues to influence the arts and sciences.
In addition to the auction, the event serves as a platform to reflect on the broader impact of philanthropy in enhancing cultural and educational landscapes. It highlights how individuals like Robert Day can effect change through strategic giving, inspiring a new generation of philanthropists to follow in his footsteps.
As preparations for the auction unfold, John Moran Auctioneers positions itself at the intersection of art, culture, and philanthropy, emphasizing the importance of preserving legacies through the appreciation of fine art while supporting ongoing philanthropic endeavors.