Dame Edna’s Legacy Lives On: Barry Humphries’ Artworks Delight Collectors

In a vibrant celebration of wit, colour, and cultural legacy, a recent Leonard Joel auction in Sydney paid tribute to the late Barry Humphries, with a spotlight on his iconic alter ego, Dame Edna Everage. Held on 3 June 2025, the event drew collectors and fans alike, eager to own a piece of Australian theatrical history.

Amongst the standout lots were two whimsical pen and watercolour portraits of Dame Edna, both signed by Humphries himself. Each measured 28 x 21.5 cm (framed at 51 x 44 cm), capturing the flamboyant charm and irreverent humour that made Dame Edna a household name. Offered from Humphries’ estate, the pair sold for $17,000 and $21,250 respectively, both exceeding expectations.

The Leonard Joel auction results were a tribute to  Humphries’ artistic talents but also underscored his enduring influence on Australian culture. The spirited bidding and enthusiastic turnout reflected a collective affection for a performer who made the world laugh—often through a pair of rhinestone-studded glasses.

Assigning a value to artworks like these poses a unique challenge. With limited public sales to reference, valuers will need to rely less on market data and more on cultural context and interpretive judgement to determine their worth.

Note: Images courtesy of Leonard Joel.