Prince's stage-worn lapel brooch from his celebrated performance of 'Purple Rain' at the 1985 American Music Awards on January 28, 1985. The circular brooch measures 2″ in diameter and features a gold-tone setting encrusted with stones—predominately clear and turquoise, with a few other hues. Prince wore this as the "main" brooch on the lapel of his green, blue, and gold suit for his performance at the 1985 AMAs, during which he took the stage with the Revolution to perform the mega-hit 'Purple Rain.' In 2017, Billboard hailed it as 'the most iconic performance in the show’s 45-year history.' In very good to fine condition, with a few missing stones.
A smaller brooch (auction lot 8003) was also stage-worn by Prince, but during the rehearsal session for the AMA event. That brooch became a "secondary" wardrobe option when it was determined that it lacked sufficient visibility in comparison to this brooch which can be seen in photos of Prince at the actual AMA show.
Consignor notes that this was acquired directly from Prince's Purple Rain wardrobe designer, and that the brooch was personally chosen by Prince for his 1985 American Music Awards performance; the jewelry was subsequently kept by the wardrobe designer as a sentimentally important piece. In addition to his memorable performance of 'Purple Rain,' Prince won three awards at the 1985 AMAs: 'Favorite Pop/Rock Album' (Purple Rain), 'Favorite Soul/R&B Album' (Purple Rain), and 'Favorite Soul/R&B Song' ('When Doves Cry').
The Prince Estate is not affiliated, associated, or connected with RR Auction or this auction, nor has it endorsed, authenticated or sponsored the items available for auction. Further, The Prince Estate has not licensed any of its intellectual property to RR Auction.
