For sale: Janis Joplin’s iconic Porsche

Rock legend Janis Joplin’s unmistakeable Porsche to be auctioned in New York on December 10.

The later singer’s psychedelic 1965 Porsche 365C 1600 Cabriolet will be the star attraction at RM Sotheby’s exclusive Driven by Disruption sale.

“Janis Joplin’s 356C is without question one of the most important Porsches of all time,” says Ian Kelleher of RM Sotheby’s.

“It’s a fantastic automobile that transcends art, pop culture and social movements, and is as groundbreaking and stunning as the renowned singer was herself.”

Joplin, who died aged 27 in 1970, bought the car in September 1968 and decided that the original Pearl White finish was slightly too conservative for the Queen of Rock and Roll, so she engaged Dave Richards, a friend and roadie with her band, Big Brother and the Holding Company, to customise the car with a kaleidoscopic mural.

Described by Richards to represent ‘The History of the Universe’, the dramatic artwork included such graphics as butterflies and jellyfish, as well as a portrait of Joplin with members of the band.

“Janis drove the car everywhere, all around San Francisco and down to Los Angeles when she was recording there” said Joplin’s sister and biographer, Laura.

“Wherever Janis went in the car, her fans recognised it. When she parked it and returned, there was always at least one fan note under the wipers.”

Following Joplin’s untimely death in 1970, the Porsche remained in her family’s ownership, and was enjoyed by her manager, Albert Grossman, who drove it for several years, lending it to visiting family and friends. In the early 1990s, the car was treated to a meticulous restoration.