John Lennon’s Original ‘Sgt. Pepper’ Artwork to be Auctioned
The rare sketch was discovered in a notebook at the Beatle's former home
April 27, 2017
The cover art for the Beatles’ seminal 1967 album “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” is one of the most recognizable in music history. Now, you can own its humble beginnings.
The “Music Icons 2017” auction, taking place in New York City May 20th, will put John Lennon’s original sketch for the album artwork (above) up for bidding. The art was found in a notebook in Lennon’s former home in Surrey, England, according to Rolling Stone. It depicts the famous album cover arrangement, with the four Beatles around a bass drum, surrounded by various historical figures. Below them the band’s name is spelled out in flowers. The drawing is estimated to be worth between $40,000 and $60,000. The item’s auction comes ahead of the Beatles’ 50th anniversary box set honoring “Sgt. Pepper.”
“Music Icons 2017” will feature other major Beatle items, including a Fender guitar used and signed by George Harrison, a “Please Please Me” album cover signed by Lennon, and a 1963 program page signed by all four band members. Other legendary artists will also be represented, with several pieces of Beach Boys memorabilia, Elvis Presley’s first piano, and a suit worn by David Bowie.
If you can’t afford to bid on these items but can afford to visit Kildare, Ireland, they will be on display after the auction at the Newbridge Silverware’s Museum of Style Icons from May 22 through June 4.
