The Collection of Phyllis and Fred Pressman: Specialist Selections
As Freeman’s | Hindman presents Property from the Collection of Phyllis and Fred Pressman, the spotlight turns to a couple whose influence reached far beyond the fashion world. Through their transformative leadership at Barneys New York and their decades-long commitment to artful living, the Pressmans redefined American luxury.
Join us as we highlight specialist selections that capture the essence of their multifaceted legacy—from Phyllis Pressman’s bold vision behind Chelsea Passage to their personal trove of fine art, iconic jewelry, and design. With each curated chapter of the sale, Freeman’s | Hindman honors not only the Pressmans’ impeccable taste but also their cultural impact, entrepreneurial spirit, and enduring sense of humor.
Interiors: The Phyllis and Fred Pressman Collection | Lots Close by October 24 at 10 AM ET
Lot 85: An Art Deco Silver-Plated Airplane Cocktail Shaker Set
Samantha Minshull, Specialist, Furniture & Decorative Arts
“This Art Deco airplane form cocktail shaker set by J.A. Henckels is the epitome of jet-set chic. It can rest on your bar as a piece of sculpture until happy hour, when it comes apart into over a dozen pieces including two flasks (the wings), four shot glasses (in the tail), a funnel and more. It’s charm and whimsy are, I think, emblematic of the style that Mrs. Pressman brought both to Chelsea Passage and her own life.”
Interiors: The Phyllis and Fred Pressman Collection | Lots Close by October 24 at 10 AM ET
Lot 24: A Tiffany & Co. Seven-Piece Sterling Silver, Copper and Enameled Tea and Coffee Service
Samantha Minshull, Specialist, Furniture & Decorative Arts
“This fabulous seven-piece sterling silver tea service was produced by Tiffany & Co. in the first half of the 20th century under the directorship of the legendary New York silversmith, John C. Moore. Its elegant tapering simplicity is a form emblematic of the period, but its delicate floral enamel and copper-inlays are a rare jewel-like addition. This exceptional service was right at home in the Manhattan dining room of the Pressmans.”
Interiors: The Phyllis and Fred Pressman Collection | Lots Close by October 24 at 10 AM ET
Lot 106: Piero Fornasetti (Italian, 1913-1988) | A Fiori Nella Notte Commode
Roger Ward, Head of Department, Design
“This rare cabinet is a delightful blend of the functional and the decorative. The floral motifs are less commonly found on Fornasetti's works, and that, along with the dark body and tapered brass legs, sets this beauty apart.”
Interiors: The Phyllis and Fred Pressman Collection | Lots Close by October 24 at 10 AM ET
Lot 67: A French Art Deco Earthenware Figure Group of Three Sailors on the March
Roger Ward, Head of Department, Design
“This highly stylized trio evokes a decidedly different era. It is celebratory in feel, and the soldiers marching together make it both playful and celebratory. Put this on any tabletop and it's guaranteed to spark a conversation.”
The Holiday Edit: Jewelry and Luxury Handbags
Live | Chicago | November 18 | 10AM CT
Rochas, Black Cloqué Skirt Suit
Tanner Branson, Associate Vice President, Head of Department, Luxury Handbags & Couture
“This suit embodies the quietly sophisticated glamour for which Phyllis Pressman was known. Designed by Olivier Theyskens for Rochas’ Fall/Winter 2005 collection, it exemplifies timeless elegance. Much like Barneys, Phyllis Pressman remains a beacon of style and enduring glamour.”
American Art and Pennsylvania Impressionists
Live | Philadelphia | December 7 | 12 PM ET
Edward Henry Potthast (American, 1857-1927) | Beach Scene #5, c. 1920
Adam Veil - Vice President, Head of Department, American Art
“Within the Pressman Collection is a tightly edited survey of American Impressionism. The bright colors and painterly brushwork that distinguish the movement are exemplified in works by Edward Henry Potthast, Robert Reid, and Frederick Carl Frieseke –highlights of Freeman's December 7 American Art & Pennsylvania Impressionists auction. Together, they reflect the Pressman's discerning taste and profound understanding of the very best of American Art."