November 29, 2023
CHRISTIE’S AND ROC NATION PRESENT
JAY-Z: THE BOOK OF HOV CELEBRATING AN ICON AT THE BROOKLYN PUBLIC LIBRARY
PROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT THE BROOKLYN PUBLIC LIBRARY
ONLINE NOVEMBER 29 – DECEMBER 5
NEW YORK – Christie’s and Roc Nation are pleased to announce the upcoming auction in honor of The Book Of HOV, a Tribute Exhibit celebrating JAY-Z. The single-lot auction will take place online at christies.com and it will open for bids on November 29th through December 5th.
The lot is comprised of a black leather case crafted by Pinel et Pinel, signed by JAY-Z. It contains 13 one-of-a-kind metal library cards, each one showcasing a different artwork from JAY-Z’s solo studio albums, a metal bookmark, and a The Book of HOV commemorative card.
Proceeds from the auction will directly support the Brooklyn Public Library. The 13 cards whitin the lot are metallic replicas of the series of the series of cards Roc Nation created for attendees of The Book Of HOV ongoing exhibit hosted by The Brooklyn Public Library.
Elizabeth Seigel, Christie’s Head of Private and Iconic Collection, says: “Christie’s is thrilled to partner with Roc Nation for this auction as a tribute to the profound impact JAY-Z has had globally as a musician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Each library card in the single lot encapsulates the essence of his solo studio albums, making this a unique and personal celebration of his artistic journey. The spirit of The Book Of HOV is an inspiration for all, emphasizing the importance of supporting vital community institutions. We are honored to collaborate with Roc Nation on this meaningful initiative.”
Desiree Perez, Ceo, Roc Nation comments: “The public’s response to The Book Of HOV exhibition has been truly overwhelming. We staged the exhibit at the Brooklyn Public Library, to serve as a reminder that genius lives in us all and there should be no barrier to knowledge and opportunity. Collaborating with Christie’s for this auction is an honor and I hope that the spirit of The Book Of HOV serves as an inspiration for others to consistently support vital community institutions.”
Linda Johnson, President and Ceo, Brooklyn Public Library says: “Every day for the past four months, thousands of new patrons have visited Central Library to see the Book of HOV and be inspired by Jay-Z’s extraordinary journey from Brooklyn to the world stage. We are grateful for the continued support and generosity of Roc Nation and Jay-Z fans across the world,” said Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO, Brooklyn Public Library. “Proceeds from the sale of the limited-edition cards will enhance the Library’s ability to continue providing high quality programming and services free of charge.”
The impact of the exhibit across JAY-Z’s hometown of Brooklyn was immediate. Since its opening on July 14th, the exhibit has drawn nearly 600,000 attendees, a more than 70% increase in foot traffic and a remarkable 553% surge in new library card registrations at Central Library.
This collection of library cards offered at auction, serves as a homage, acknowledging JAY-Z’s profound global influence as a musician, entrepreneur and philanthropist.
The lot will be on view at Christie’s Rockefeller Center galleries starting on December 1st through December 5th.
