Mercury’s home, Garden Lodge in Kensington, was his haven from his flamboyant public persona, a place that friends could visit and stay. He filled it with works of art, including Victorian paintings and pieces by 20th century artists, glasswork, and Japanese art and fabrics.
He spent the last months of his life at Garden Lodge, and died there on November 24th, 1991, 24 hours after confirming in a statement that he had Aids and appealing for his fans to join “the fight against this terrible disease”.A silver moustache comb from Tiffany and Co owned by Mercury. Photograph: Sotheby’s/PA
“Freddie was an incredible and intelligent collector who showed us that there is beauty and fun and conversation to be found in everything. I hope [the exhibitions and auctions] will be an opportunity to share all the many facets of Freddie, both public and private, and for the world to understand more about, and celebrate, his unique and beautiful spirit.”
“Like a Russian doll, Garden Lodge has revealed its layers of treasures over recent months, with the rich tapestry of objects we have discovered there taking us all on a glorious adventure through his imagination. Opening the door to the very special place that was Freddie Mercury’s home offers us the ultimate backstage pass into his world.”