Pattie Boyd Will Sell Letters from George Harrison and Eric Clapton

The quintessential rock and roll muse, Pattie Boyd, is making headlines for a unique auction. The woman who inspired countless love songs is parting ways with a portion of her personal collection, offering a glimpse into her life with music legends.

Among the items up for grabs are letters penned by her former husbands, George Harrison and Eric Clapton, two of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.

This auction presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of music history, intertwined with the personal life of a captivating figure. Now, fans have a chance to acquire a tangible connection to this legendary story.

The auction items extend beyond just letters, offering a well-rounded look into Boyd’s world. Prepare to delve deeper into her life through photographs, clothing, and other mementos, each piece potentially holding a story waiting to be unearthed.

Pattie Boyd sells personal mementos

As her 80th birthday approaches in April, Boyd, a renowned model and photographer, is parting ways with a collection of personal items. “I’ve held onto them for years – far too long,” she told The Telegraph. “I thought, why not sell everything and let others enjoy it?”

Boyd’s life has been intertwined with music legends. Married to Beatle George Harrison from 1966 to 1977, she was also the muse behind some of his most cherished songs, including “Something”. 

During their marriage, Harrison’s friend and fellow musician, Eric Clapton, penned passionate letters to Boyd, expressing his feelings and yearning.

Following her divorce from Harrison, Boyd and Clapton married in 1979, remaining together for ten years. Clapton’s iconic song “Layla” is widely considered to be inspired by his unrequited love for Boyd during her marriage to Harrison.

A revealing letter from Eric Clapton

One of the most intriguing items in Boyd’s upcoming auction is a letter penned by Clapton in 1970. The letter tackles a sensitive topic, with Clapton directly addressing Boyd’s feelings towards her then-husband, George Harrison.

“I know these questions are very impertinent,” Clapton wrote, “but if there is still a feeling in your heart for me, you must let me know!” The passionate plea, signed simply as “All my love, E,” initially misled Boyd, who mistook it for a message from a fan.

However, Clapton’s true identity was soon revealed. He followed up with a phone call, confirming his authorship and likely seeking a response to his heartfelt inquiry.

This personal exchange, along with other items in the auction, offers a glimpse into the complex dynamics of Boyd’s life and the inspiration behind iconic music.

Clapton’s poignant plea

Another letter from Clapton in the auction reveals the depth of his emotions for Boyd. He addresses her as “Layla”, a nickname that later became synonymous with their passionate, yet tumultuous, relationship.

In the letter, Clapton expresses his intense devotion, stating he would “sacrifice my family, my god, and my own existence” for their past intimacy. He then pleads with Boyd, questioning if he is lacking in some way: “Why do you hesitate, am I a poor lover, am I ugly, am I too weak, too strong…?”

Clapton’s passionate language continues, urging Boyd to make a choice: “If you want me, take me, I am yours… if you don’t want me, please break the spell that binds me.”

He uses metaphors, comparing himself to a “wild animal” and stating that “to cage” him is a sin, while “to tame him is divine.” This raw and emotional letter offers a powerful glimpse into Clapton’s perspective during this complex period in their lives.

A glimpse into Pattie and George’s life

The auction also includes a more personal glimpse into Pattie’s relationship with George Harrison. A letter written by Harrison in 1971, while he was in New York planning the “Concert for Bangladesh”, reveals a tender moment.

“Hope you’re ok. I miss you. I’m starving – many grilled cheese sandwiches. Love you,” reads the letter, estimated to sell for between £10,000 and £15,000. These few lines offer a glimpse into their everyday life and connection, highlighting George’s affection and sense of humor.

Beyond the letters, the auction features a charming doodle by Harrison. It depicts him sitting peacefully under an apple tree, a piece expected to fetch between £3,000 and £5,000. Pattie describes it as “divine”, capturing George’s gentle and sweet nature.

She also mentions a Christmas card he painted for her, further emphasizing his creativity and thoughtful gestures. These personal items provide a unique window into their shared life and offer a deeper understanding of the man behind the music.

The price of inspiration

The crown jewel of Pattie Boyd’s auction is undoubtedly the original cover art for Derek and the Dominoes’ album Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs. This iconic piece depicts a blonde woman with flowing hair, resembling Boyd, embracing a dark-haired man.

Clapton, deeply infatuated with Boyd at the time, reportedly purchased the painting from the son of the original artist, Frandsen De Schomberg. The artwork, estimated to fetch between £40,000 and £60,000, serves as a tangible reminder of the passionate emotions that fueled both the music and the personal drama surrounding its creation.

This piece not only represents a valuable collectible but also holds immense historical significance.

It is a visual representation of the inspiration behind one of the most celebrated rock anthems, “Layla,” a song that continues to resonate with listeners worldwide and solidify Boyd’s place in music history.