Collection of personal memorabilia and love notes from the 1960s and 70s to go on display at Christie’s London

Pattie Boyd, the former 1960s fashion model who famously inspired songs by George Harrison and Eric Clapton, is set to auction a collection of personal letters and memorabilia that capture the essence of her relationships with the legendary musicians. Boyd, who married Harrison of the Beatles in 1966 before later wedding Clapton in 1979, is parting with treasured items that highlight a love triangle that captivated the world.

Among the highlights of “The Pattie Boyd Collection” is a handwritten letter from Clapton in 1970, marked urgent and sent to Boyd’s Oxfordshire home. In the letter, Clapton appeals for clarity on her romantic feelings, expressing, “What I wish to ask you, is if you still love your husband, or if you have another lover?… if there is still a feeling in your heart for me… you must let me know!” This letter is expected to sell for between £10,000 and £15,000. Clapton famously immortalised his feelings for Boyd in the tracks Layla and Wonderful Tonight.

Also included in the collection is a love note from Harrison from the 1960s, with an estimated value of £2,000 to £3,000, reading simply, “Pattie, don’t forget I love you – George.” Boyd inspired several Beatles songs written by Harrison, such as I Need You (1965) and Something (1969).

Boyd, 79, stated, “I’m happy to let go of these things which I have treasured and loved for so many years. These items represent special moments in my life but now I think it’s time to move on and share what I have with others.”

The collection offers a broader glimpse into Boyd’s life through photography, with original images taken during the Beatles’ stay at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram in India in 1968 and personal shots of Clapton, including one with his prized Fender Stratocaster guitar, “Blackie.” Other items up for auction include handwritten lyrics for Clapton’s unreleased song Sweet Eloraine, jewellery, and mementoes from Boyd’s time with the legendary musicians.

The star attraction of the sale is the original artwork chosen by Clapton for the Derek And The Dominos’ album Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs, estimated to sell for between £40,000 and £60,000.

The complete collection will be on public display at Christie’s headquarters in London from March 15 to 21. Adrian Hume-Sayer of Christie’s London described the sale as a window into “the cultural revolution that changed the world in the 1960s” and a rare opportunity for fans to own a piece of music history.