No Reserve Live Auction
7 March 2025 at 11 AM CET
AUCTION OVERVIEW LOTS
It is a special honor to present to you a collection that is truly one of a kind. The Peter Kienzle-Hardt Collection stands as a remarkable testament to the passion, dedication, and vision of its creators. This treasury of Buddhist and Himalayan art, assembled over decades by the Kienzle siblings and lovingly preserved through the stewardship of their sole heir Peter Kienzle-Hardt, reflects not only their shared fascination with Asian culture but also their profound respect for the spiritual and artistic heritage of the regions they explored. In this overview, we invite you to discover the compelling story behind this extraordinary collection, its journey through time, and the legacy it offers to connoisseurs and collectors around the world.
After World War II, the Kienzle siblings devoted themselves to traveling across the Himalayas, fueled by a passion for art. From the 1950s onward, they explored temples, markets, and festivals, forging key relationships to amass a renowned collection of bronzes and thangkas—an enduring testament to their dedication and vision.
In 1976, a young Peter Hardt and his first wife, Ingrid, set off on a bicycle journey around the world—an adventure that would forever shape their lives. Inspired by their voyage, they launched a small business dedicated to Asian art. This passion eventually led Peter to develop a deep friendship with the Kienzle siblings.
In the early 2000s, the Kienzle siblings began searching for a custodian for their remarkable collection and turned to their longtime friend Peter Hardt. Hardt would establish a private museum of Asian art in Sieplenbusch. The project required more than a decade of planning and construction, costing over three million euros.
Important Information for Buyers
As this is a Museum Deaccession auction, all lots are offered with No Reserve, allowing bids below the starting prices to be considered.
Please note that the starting prices have been set at exceptionally low levels to encourage participation.
We encourage you to take advantage of this unique opportunity to acquire remarkable pieces at highly competitive prices.
Managing Director
Senior Expert - Chinese & Southeast Asian Art
Expert - Chinese & Southeast Asian Art
