Anne H. Bass (1941–2020) was a distinguished philanthropist, patron of the arts, and discerning collector whose refined, expert eye and patronage left an indelible mark across the many creative fields she championed. A fixture of New York’s cultural and social scenes during the 1980s and ’90s, Mrs. Bass wore many hats—documentary filmmaker, mother, arts advocate, and passionate collector. After moving to New York in the early 1980s, she became deeply involved with the New York City Ballet, significantly expanding its base of supporters across the U.S. and Europe. Her enduring contributions also extended to the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts and other major institutions.

Mrs. Bass’s commitment to the arts extended well beyond patronage. In 2010, she directed the documentary Dancing Across Borders, highlighting her passion for ballet and global cultural exchange. Bass’s Fifth Avenue residence and her Fort Worth home, designed by architect Paul Rudolph, were a testament to her impeccable taste, housing masterpieces from prominent 19th- and 20th-century artists such as Monet, Rothko, Degas, Calder, and Stella, among many others. Her acclaimed art acquisitions represent one of the most important American collections to be offered at auction and continues to be celebrated for its depth and cohesion.

As we present a curated selection of fine silver from the Anne H. Bass Collection at STAIR this spring, we honor Anne H. Bass’s legacy of elegance, connoisseurship, and unwavering dedication to the arts.

Learn more about the Anne H. Bass collection in The Art of Entertaining on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 10 am. 

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