In a surprising turn of events, a collection of exquisite Art Deco peacock statues, which were set to be auctioned off, have been saved by an undisclosed buyer at the eleventh hour. The statues, originally part of a historic San Francisco building, were nearly lost to private collectors before the mysterious intervention.
A Symbol of San Francisco's Glamorous Past
These stunning peacock sculptures, crafted in the 1920s, once adorned the façade of a now-demolished theatre in downtown San Francisco. Their intricate design and vibrant colours epitomise the opulence of the Art Deco era, making them highly sought-after by collectors worldwide.
The Auction That Almost Was
The statues had been listed for sale on Alibaba's online auction platform, sparking fears among local historians that these cultural treasures might disappear into private hands. Preservationists had launched a desperate campaign to keep the peacocks in the city where they belonged.
Last-Minute Reprieve
Just as bidding was about to close, an anonymous buyer stepped forward with an offer that secured the statues' future. While the purchaser's identity remains secret, sources suggest they plan to display the peacocks in a public space, ensuring San Franciscans can continue to enjoy these remarkable pieces of the city's heritage.
Why These Peacocks Matter
- They represent one of the finest examples of Art Deco sculpture on the West Coast
- The statues are among the last surviving elements of San Francisco's golden age of cinema architecture
- Their preservation maintains an important link to the city's cultural history
This dramatic rescue serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our shared artistic heritage, even in an age where historic artefacts are increasingly commodified.
