Yves Saint Laurent Art Sale’s 1st Night Brings In $264 Million PARIS — Despite the global economic crisis, a lot of money seems to be left over. On Monday, the private collection of Yves Saint Laurent and his partner became the most expensive one ever sold at auction, bringing in more than $264 million on the first night alone. On the flip side reports have come in from the NYT that artists and collectors are often mortgaging their work at high end pawn shops. " At a time when stock portfolios are plunging and many homes, even grand ones, have no equity left to borrow against, an increasing number of art owners are realizing that an Old Master or a prime photograph, when used as collateral, can bring in much-needed cash." Read More