A Chinese mother of pearl inlaid rosewood center table, late 19th/early 20th century. Est. $3,000-5,000

LOS ANGELES, CA.- Bonhams & Butterfields is pleased to announce the September 27, 2009 auction of The JZ Knight Collection. Amassed over a decade, the Collection will feature eclectic and unique examples of period furniture, decorative arts, carpets and paintings from the 17th through 20th centuries with a particular focus on European and American elegance.

Each item on offer during the 500-lot sale has been personally selected by Knight to reflect her passion for rare and unique items. Featured works from the Los Angeles-based auction include a discerning selection of 20th Century design as well as a diverse array of European furnishings, decorative arts, carpets and paintings.

"The JZ Knight Collection symbolizes the heart and soul of a true collector. Knight's passion for beauty and quality are represented throughout the offering, in all facets of the auction," said Andrew Jones, Los Angeles Director of European Furniture and Decorative Arts at Bonhams & Butterfields.

Speaking about her collection, Knight said, "I have enjoyed a passion for collecting the works of geniuses. I connect with the artist, the craftsman, or painter. This Collection represents a lifelong passion of mine. Each piece has its own story and exquisite history - I cherish them all. After years of requests to part with my Collection, I have agreed to share it with those who have a keen insight into the beauty and genius of each piece."

Knight is the president and founder of the School of Enlightenment; a unique academy in Washington state. She is also the President and owner of JZ ROSE, a home furnishings boutique featuring fine antiques and collectables. In addition, she is founder of the JZ Knight Humanities Foundation, which focuses on the empowerment of women, and world peace. To date, the foundation has granted over $2-million in educational scholarships for children. Known worldwide as a spiritual leader for over three decades, Knight has captivated and inspired audiences with ancient wisdom and training in the power of consciousness. In conjunction with her teachings, she has appeared on numerous television shows, including the Merv Griffin Show and Larry King Live, as well as several films including What the Bleep Do WE Know!?, and Wake-Up. Knight is also the author of numerous articles and New York Times Bestseller, A State of Mind.

Furniture and decorative arts highlights from The JZ Knight Collection will include an impressive set of five Louis XV carved walnut fauteuils, stamped N. Heurtaut, 18th century (est. $18,000-25,000); a magnificent painted canvas eight panel floor screen (est. $8,000-12,000); a majestic George III brass inlaid mahogany secretary, late 18th century (est. $6,000-8,000) and a superb Chinese mother of pearl inlaid rosewood center table, late 19th/early 20th century (est. $3,000-5,000).

A strong selection of 20th Century works will also be featured during the September auction. Items of note will include an imposing Daum Nancy gilt decorated enameled cameo glass vase with orchid and bee decoration (est. $8,000 - 12,000); a Gallé marquetry walnut two tier table, circa 1900 (est. $5,000-7,000); a W.M.F. silvered metal table mirror (est. $3,000-5,000); an Art Nouveau Amphora glazed earthenware figural lamp of a maiden (est. 3,000-5,000); a Tiffany Favrile glass Arabian table lamp (est. $3,500-4,500) and an Austrian Art Nouveau glazed earthenware illuminated vanity mirror (est. $2,500 - 3,500).

A Galle marquetry walnut two tier table, circa 1900. Est. $5,000-7,000.

According to Jones, "The 20th Century section of the auction represents a romantic vision of the period with emphasis on Belle Epoch and Art Nouveau works. A strong floral element can be seen in pieces from the early century with the naturalist theme continuing into the fine arts offering."

Fine Arts highlights from The Collection of JZ Knight will include Young Girl with Bichon Frise by Fritz Zuber-Bühler, oil on canvas (est. $60,000/80,000); Restful Company by Gabriel-Émile-Édouard Nicolet, oil on canvas (est. $8,000/12,000); Baby's First Kiss by Eugenio Eduardo Zampighi, oil on canvas (est. $30,000/50,000) and L'ange Pensif by Jules-Cyrille Cave, 1903, oil on canvas (est. $12,000/18,000).