MONTREAL – A significant auction event took place on Friday, showcasing the memorabilia of the late Canadian poet and singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen. The event, held in Los Angeles by Julien's Auctions, was described as the largest auction of Cohen's personal effects, featuring nearly 170 items that celebrated the life and artistry of the Montreal icon, who passed away at the age of 82 in 2016.
Among the standout pieces was a 76-page notebook filled with Cohen's original poems, which also included the lyrics for his well-known songs "Treaty" and "It's Torn." This remarkable notebook commanded an impressive price of US$120,650 (approximately C$174,194), marking it as the highest sale of the day, according to the auction house.
Furthermore, a first edition of Cohen's inaugural collection of poetry, "Let Us Compare Mythologies," fetched a notable price of C$15,015. Handwritten pages of poems published in 1968 also saw robust interest, with individual pages selling for $22,920 and $18,770, respectively. This underscores the enduring value of Cohen's literary works and the cultural significance attached to them.
Items from Cohen's cherished time spent in Greece were also part of the auction. A key to his home on the island of Hydra sold for $28,154, reflecting the nostalgia and connection to that period in his life. Additionally, a black Greek fisherman’s cap, a symbolic item from his time on the island, was sold for $11,261, further illustrating the price of personal artifacts associated with the artist.
The auction included various pieces of jewelry, with a locket containing a lock of Cohen's hair selling for $7,334, and a gold bracelet reaching a price of $6,569. Moreover, two mezuzahs, religious items significant in Jewish tradition, were auctioned for $11,261, highlighting Cohen's cultural and religious background.
This event not only brought significant financial gains but also showcased the profound impact Leonard Cohen had on music and literature. His legacy, which includes a rich collection of poetry and song, continues to resonate with fans and collectors alike, as evidenced by the high values of the items auctioned.
The Canadian Press reported this news on March 1, 2025, reflecting the ongoing appreciation for Leonard Cohen’s work and personal history. The auction's success serves as a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of art and music, capturing the hearts and minds of collectors and fans around the globe.
