My wife is a big opera fan. As members of the New York Met’s “Young Associates” (a sort of junior Patrons group), we met a fellow Opera buff (Peter) who happened to be a financial advisor for UBS. Jennifer said “you have to tell him your college sculpture story”. I did. The guy was intrigued. I even noted that, based on encouragement from several alumni with significant means, I had tried to broker a purchase of the Rickey sculpture. Peter noted that, times being what they are, perhaps they would be more open to such a proposition now.<\/p>\n
Here was the gracious reply:<\/p>\n
Dear Mr. Payne,<\/p>\n
Dominik Saam has forwarded to me below mails.<\/p>\n
Thank you for your interest in our Rickey sculpture. I am very sorry to advise you that we have no intention to sell this sculpture. The sculpture is a perfect match with the UBS building and very much loved be the UBS staff working there and by the people in Zurich in general.
This fantastic sculpture has become an inherent part of Zurich and is featured in many touristic guides in Zurich.<\/p>\nWe know that Sotheby’s NY plans to sell a George Rickey, Weathervane, 1976….maybe a small comfort?<\/p>\n
Should we change our mind, I will certainly inform you immediately.<\/p>\n
We hope you understand our decision and remain with<\/p>\n
kind regards,<\/p>\n
Irene Zortea
UBS Art Collection, Director
UBS AG
Global Wealth Management & Swiss Bank<\/p>\nP.O. Box
CH – 8098 Zurich<\/p>\n