The Damama Estate Collection

The Damamas brought their keen eye, singular style, and personal warmth to the world of Mid-Century Modern collecting. A constant presence at Modern design shows and flea markets on both coasts for decades, you could not miss the Damamas, affectionately known as Damama and Dapapa, in their matching Sikh whites and turbans as they hunted for the most interesting and unique pieces. Hughes Auctions honors their love of art and design and is thrilled to present The Damama Collection Auction comprised of nearly 600 lots of art and collectibles from their estate. Dharam Damama Kaur Khalsa (born Elizabeth Simon, 1946-2020) and Dharam Damama Singh Khalsa (born William Morris, 1942-2016) joined the Guru Ram Das Ashram in the late 60s. Dharam Damama-Kaur Khalsa (Damama) grew up in Beverly Hills in a stunning Mid-Century Paul Williams house and Dharam Damama-Singh Khalsa (Dapapa) grew up in the Philadelphia area. They lived in an apartment on Preuss Road in Los Angeles near the Guru Ram Das Ashram for almost 46 years. They typically spent the summer months in Philadelphia, doing Brimfield and other legendary East Coast flea markets. Winters were spent in California doing the circuit of flea markets every weekend. They drove both ways towing a small trailer for merchandise behind them, accompanied by a string of large white Pyrenees dogs. In addition to dealing in Mid-Century art and design, they designed and sold their own jewelry for over 15 years, creating many custom pieces for Yogi Bhajan and other Sikh leaders. Dapapa was also an artist - a selection of his paintings are offered in this auction.