Two hundred pairs of trainers created by the late fashion designer Virgil Abloh have sold for a record-breaking $25m (£18.7m) at a charity auction.
The footwear was a collaboration between French fashion house Louis Vuitton, where he was an artistic director, and Nike’s Air Force 1 project.
They are made of calf leather and embellished with Louis Vuitton’s famous monogram.
Proceeds from the auction, which came to more than eight times its overall $3m (£2.2m) high estimate – will go to Abloh’s scholarship fund.
The esteemed designer passed away in November at the age of 41 following a private battle with cancer.
Prior to his death, he had been involved in organising the auction at Sotheby’s in New York and the event went ahead in association with his family.
Sotheby’s said the sale has set multiple new benchmarks – including the highest known public record for the most valuable trainer and fashion auctions ever staged.
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The company said it was also the most valuable charity auction Sotheby’s has seen in nearly a decade.
Charles F Stewart, Sotheby’s chief executive, said: “Today’s record-breaking auction, which saw unparalleled global participation, is a testament to Virgil Abloh’s legacy as one of the most visionary artists and designers of his generation whose widespread influence and impact is still palpable.
“Sotheby’s is honoured to be have been a partner with Louis Vuitton and Nike in this special sale, which is now among the most successful charitable auctions ever staged at Sotheby’s.”
Funds raised at the auction will be donated to Abloh’s Post-Modern Scholarship Fund, which he founded in July 2020 and offers scholarships to students of black, African-American and African descent.
Abloh, renowned for working with stars including Kanye West and Victoria Beckham, made history as the first African-American to lead luxury fashion house Louis Vuitton.
He was also creative director of rapper West’s creative agency, Donda.
The Illinois-born designer’s death prompted a wave of tributes from famous fans and collaborators from around the world.
Abloh was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma, in 2019.
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