OVER 300 WORKS BY SOME OF THE GREATEST NAMES IN FINE ART – PICASSO, DALI, MIRO, CHAGALL, BONNARD AND OTHERS – WILL BE SOLD NOV. 7 BY BATERBYS ART AUCT

Contact: http://www.baterbys.com/
press@baterbys.com
(866)537-0265

OVER 300 WORKS BY SOME OF THE GREATEST NAMES IN FINE ART – PICASSO, DALI, MIRO, CHAGALL, BONNARD AND OTHERS – WILL BE SOLD NOV. 7 BY BATERBYS ART AUCTION GALLERY IN AN EVENT THAT WILL BENEFIT AN AIDS AWARENESS CAUSE

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – More than 300 original and reproduction works of art by some of the greatest names in 20th century fine art – Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, Joan Miro, Pierre Bonnard and others – will be sold alongside contemporary names like Peter Max, LeRoy Neiman, Nicola Simbari and Gary Benfield at a live and Internet auction slated for Saturday, Nov. 7 by Baterbys Art Auction Gallery.

The event will be conducted live at Baterbys’ beautiful Pointe Orlando gallery, located at 9101 International Drive (Unit 1008) in Orlando. For online bidding information, you may visit the Baterbys website, at http://www.baterbys.com/. The entire auctioneer's premium will be donated to Hope and Help Center of Central Florida, an AIDS/HIV awareness organization based in Winter Park.

The auction will begin promptly at 7 p.m., with a preview from 6 p.m. until the start of sale. Intertested bidders will be treated to artwork spanning a broad range of themes, to include City Scenes, Biblical/Religious, Rural Life, Abstract and Realist. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be provided by Cuba Libre Rum Bar & Restaurant. There will also be enlightening art lectures and spontaneous raffles.

Mention of the name Salvador Dali (known as the most “celebritized” artist) often evokes soft watches and surrealist dream imagery. But later in life, Dali turned to more traditional subjects, in particular those involving biblical and historical references. His entire Aliyah Suite is an example of this and will be auctioned on Nov. 7, along with other limited-edition works (like the Divine Comedy series).

Dali’s Aliyah Suite was executed in 1968. Each image in the 25-print series is an original lithograph (d’Arche Vellum), about 20 inches by 15 inches each, and signed lower right in pencil and numbered of 250 lower left. All are in excellent condition. The Divine Comedy series (circa 1960) comprises six signed, framed prints, with an image area of 13 inches by 10 ½ inches.

Gary Benfield (Br., b. 1965) is best known for his romanticized female figure paintings and equestrian renderings. Offered Nov. 7 will be a six-work series of serigraphs on wove paper, executed between 2003-2007. Each serigraph is signed in gold pen in a limited-edition series (750). The six titles include Escapade II, Golden Mask, Renaissance, Heavenly Dance, Day Dreaming and Love Secrets.

Original oil paintings and hand-embellished giclee prints by the supremely gifted artist Elena Bond will also be sold. The giclees include Strolling Harbor Side edition of 95, 24 inches by 40 inches; Love Gondolier edition of 95, 36 inches by 18 inches); Sand and Surf edition of 95, 32 inches by 32 inches; and City Reflections edition of 95, 19 inches by 60 inches. All the giclees are artist-signed and in excellent condition.

The oil on canvas paintings by Ms. Bond include The Waters of Venice, Early Morning in Venice, Still in Mediterranean Waters, La Trattoria, Hand and Hand, Night in the Keys, Arch and Lake, Artists Café, Summer Manhattan Style, After Hours Chill and Le Station de Metro. The works range in size from 16 inches by 12 inches to 20 inches by 60 inches. All are signed and in excellent condition.

Nicola Simbari (It., b. 1929) effortlessly launched his painting career while still in his 20’s with a one-man show in London. After that, he was commissioned to paint murals for the Italian Pavilion at the 1958 World’s Fair in Brussels. His brilliant, impressionistic style and vivid, dramatic and energized interpretations of the Mediterranean have established Simbari as one of today’s most sought after artists.

Three of his works will be included in the Baterbys Nov. 7 auction. All three are serigraphs, done around 1990. They include: Piazzo Del Duomo (36 ¼ inches by 33 inches, hand-signed lower right, hand-numbered lower left); White Dress (31 inches by 36 inches, hand signed lower right, hand-numbered lower left); and El Parasol (35 inches by 26 ¾ inches, hand-signed and hand-numbered).

Baterbys holds quarterly live and Internet auctions, all of which benefit non-profit organizations that provide developmental and holistic programs for children with life-threatening illnesses. Baterbys has raised substantial funds for groups such as Threshhold Center for Autism and Give Kids the World.

The Hope and Help Center of Central Florida was established in 1988 to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS and at the same time provide social support to those who are battling the disease in central Florida. The group offers specializes services designed to lower the disease transmission rate, supply the financial and medical needs of diagnosed patients, and prevent the worsening effects of the AIDS virus.

Baterbys offers its clients something that is unique in the industry: a lifetime money-back guarantee of authenticity for each work of art it sells. Plus a lifetime exchange policy. This is important to buyers looking to build a collection of art, since provenance is everything. It is Baterbys’ philosophy that gaining a buyer’s trust is key to ensuring they will become repeat customers. No other auction house offers such a guarantee.

Baterbys produces quarterly art review books that also serve as catalogs. They are a complete reference to all the artists Baterbys sells for dealers, collectors and new buyers. The catalogs – suitable for coffee table display – feature artist biographies, discussions on the artwork, and full museum descriptions of all the items. The cost is $49.99 (less with a subscription).

Baterbys has over 25 years’ experience in the art world and auctioneering. The firm specializes in Internet and live auctions of world-class, authentic artwork, especially 20th-century masters, from Dali through Chagall, Picasso, Fini and numerous post-Impressionists. Baterbys’ main concentration is in rare graphic works. The firm is always accepting quality consignments for its future fine art auctions.

For more information on the Nov. 7 auction and the firm’s calendar of upcoming auction dates, you may log on to http://www.baterbys.com/. To consign a single piece of art, an estate or a collection, you may call them directly, at (866) 537-0265. Or, you can send them an e-mail, to press@baterbys.com.


Nicola Simbari:
Signed serigraph by Italian-born artist Nicola Simbari (b. 1929), titled White Dress (est. $700-$1,000).

Elena Bond:
Original oil on canvas painting by Elena Bond, titled La Trattoria, artist signed (est. $3,900-$4,400).

Gary Benfield:
Serigraph on wove paper work by Gary Benfield (Br., b. 1965), titled Escapade II (est. $800-$1,000).

Dali image 1:
Original signed lithograph (d'Arche Vellum) by Salvador Dali (1968), from his Aliyah Suite (est. $1,550-$2,300).

Dali image 2:
Signed, framed lithograph by Salvador Dali (1960), from is Divine Comedy series (est. $1,500-$2,000).

Hope and Help Center:
The entire auctioneer's premium for the sale will go to benefit the Hope and Help Center of Central Florida.

CARDBOARD DIORAMA ADVERTISING MAYO-SKINNER AUTOMATIC WINDSHIELD CLEANER CLIMBS TO $5,060 AT PETROLIANA & ADVERTISING SALE HELD. OCT. 16

Contact: Dan Matthews
(217) 563-8880 or (217) 259-7059

CARDBOARD DIORAMA ADVERTISING MAYO-SKINNER AUTOMATIC WINDSHIELD CLEANER CLIMBS TO $5,060 AT PETROLIANA & ADVERTISING SALE HELD. OCT. 16

Auction was conducted by Matthews Auctions, LLC, in Peotone, Ill., the day before an annual show.

(PEOTONE, Ill.) – A dazzling cardboard diorama, advertising Mayo-Skinner Automatic Windshield Cleaner and graded 8.5 on a 1-10 scale for condition, sold for $5,060 at a Fall Peotone Petroliana & Advertising Auction held Oct. 16 by Matthews Auctions, LLC, of Nokomis, Ill. The auction was held the day before the start of the annual Fall Chicagoland Advertising Show in Peotone.

"The diorama was just a great piece with great graphics, in all-around good condition,” said Dan Matthews of Matthews Auctions, LLC. “It also showed that cardboard advertising signs can command high dollar prices at auction right along with gas globes, lenses, porcelain signs and more glamorous items.” The diorama, measuring 27 inches by 32 inches by 12 inches, had minor damage at the edges.

About 440 lots changed hands at the sale, which grossed a little more than $250,000. Around 125 people attended the event in person, while about that many bidders participated online, via Proxibid. An additional 25-30 people bid by phone, while over 20 bidders submitted fax and left bids. “We were very happy to take the online bids, but there’s nothing like selling to the room and by phone,” Matthews said.

"The auction did about as well as we expected,” Mr. Matthews continued, “but how we got there wasn’t what we expected. Some of the lots we figured would bring top dollar ended up selling flat, while other items we didn't think would do too well sold for way more than their high estimate. It made for an interesting day. And the good news is, people came to spend their money. Bidding was very spirited.”

Following are additional highlights from the sale. All prices quoted include a 10 percent buyer’s premium.

The top lot of the sale was a Marine Gasoline 15-inch single lens in metal globe body, with speed boat graphic and graded 8.9 for condition. It soared to $10,450. Also, a Hancock “Cock ‘o the Walk” 15-inch single lens in metal globe body, with rooster graphic and graded 8.9, brought $7,979; and an Oldsmobile Service 42-inch double-sided porcelain sign with crest logo and great gloss hit $5,170.

A Conoco Gasoline 26-inch double-sided porcelain sign with soldier graphic, graded 8.5 and with good color and gloss, garnered $5,500; a Paragon Gasoline 25-inch double-sided porcelain sign with truck, derrick and refiner scene, both sides graded 7.5, with pole and generic base, changed hands for $6,600; and a (Red Indian) Gasoline Motor Oil single-sided 60-inch porcelain sign reached $5,500.

A Buick Valve-in-Head Authorized Service double-sided 42-inch porcelain sign, marked Walker & Co. (Detroit) breezed to $4,400; an updated Refiners Gasoline Motor Oil double-sided porcelain sign, 36-inch (not 42-inch), graded 9.5 and with super color and gloss, attained $3,300; and a Studebaker Authorized Service double-sided porcelain sign, 42-inch, both sides grade 9, hammered for $3,025.

A Wesco 48-inch single-sided porcelain sign with big “W” and jet logo, graded 8.9 and with good color and gloss, fetched $4,125; Liberty Gasoline 15-inch lenses in original metal globe body with original “GILLCO” sticker, the body lenses rated 9, went to a determined bidder for $2,640; and a White Eagle Full Feather milkglass one-piece cast globe, graded a near-perfect 9.5, made a respectable $2,200.

An 18 inch by 21 inch McColl-Frontenac (Red Indian) Products single-sided die-cut porcelain sign, graded 9 and marked P&M (1946) crossed the block at $3,740; a Weed Chains “As Necessary As Gasoline” single-sided tin price board sign, 24 inches by 17 inches and graded 8.9, rose to $3,575; and a Wings Ethyl Gasoline porcelain point-of-purchase sign, 6 inches by 7 inches and graded 9, hit $2,970.

A spectacular Texaco Gasoline Motor Oil 42-inch double-sided porcelain sign with black “T” and both sides graded 9.5, with hanging ring, coasted to $5,225; a Dodge-Plymouth “Dependable Service With Dodge Trucks” double-sided porcelain die-cut sign, 48 inches by 48 inches, both sides graded 9, reached $4,620; and a Waverly Motor Oil double-sided porcelain die-cut curb sign hit $3,300.

A Mobil (Flame Socony) Vacuum Bottle Gas double-sided porcelain sign with iconic Pegasus horse bracket (sign 17 inches by 30 inches, Pegasus 32 inches by 25 inches) sold as one lot for $2,750; Frontier Gas “Rarin’ to Go!” 13.5-inch display lenses on a glass globe body, graded 8.5, commanded $2,750; and a Texaco metal globe, dated 1938, both sides graded 9 and with clean fields, made $1,705.

A Hupmobile 8 & 6 double-sided porcelain sign, 24 inches by 35 inches, graded 7.5 on display side and 6.75 on reverse side, went for $2,090; a Standard-Vacuum Oil Co. Kerosene Oil porcelain flange sign with elephant graphic and Arabic lettering, 18 inches by 25 inches, graded 8.5, realized $1,760; and an updated, medium detail White Eagle milkglass one-piece cast globe, 9.5, made $1,430.

A Johnson Gasoline Motor Oil double-sided porcelain sign, 48-inch, graded 9 (display) and 8.9 (reverse), with chrome hanging ring, achieved $2,750; a Rolling Ridge Polled Herefords (Paul Greening, Owner) double-sided porcelain sign, 48 inches by 60 inches, both sides graded 9+, sold for $1,100; and a Texaco Motor Oil “Free Crankcase Service” single-sided porcelain sign, 30 by 30 inches, rose to $880.

Matthews Auctions, LLC’s next big auction is coming up quick – an Absolute Petroliana & Gas Pump Auction slated for Saturday, Nov. 7, in Wisconsin Rapids, Wis. The sale will feature gas pumps, signs, globes and more. Two rings may be required. Then, on Nov. 13-15, the firm will conduct a Toys and Antiques Auction. The month concludes with a Toys Auction slated for Nov. 21 in Redlands, Calif.

Matthews Auctions, LLC, is always accepting quality consignments for future sales (to include the upcoming November dates). To consign an item, estate or collection, you may call them directly, at (217) 563-8880 or (217) 259-7059. Or, you can e-mail them, at info@matthewsauctions.com. To learn more about the firm and its calendar of upcoming auction dates, log on to www.MatthewsAuctions.com.


Mayo-Skinner:
Cardboard diorama for Mayo-Skinner Automatic Windshield Cleaner, graded 8.5 out of 10 ($5,060).




Oldsmobile Service:
Oldsmobile Service 42-inch double-sided porcelain sign with crest logo and great gloss ($5,170).




Marine Gasoline:
The top lot of the sale was this Marine Gasoline 15-inch lens in metal globe body, graded 8.9 ($10,450).




Hancock:
Hancock “Cock o' the Walk” 15-inch single lens in metal globe body, with rooster graphic ($7,979).




Red Indian:
Gasoline Motor Oil (Red Indian) single-sided 60-inch porcelain sign ($5,500).




Dodge Plymouth:
Dodge-Plymouth “Dependable Service With Dodge Trucks” double-sided porcelain sign ($4,620).

MONUMENTAL BRUNSWICK, BALKE & COLLANDER CO. FRONT AND BACK BAR, CIRCA 1890, THE L.A. MODEL, SOARS TO $302,500 AT OCT. 2-4 AUCTION IN ANN ARBOR, MICH.

Contact: Mike Eckles
(951) 453-2415 or (313) 715-4486

MONUMENTAL BRUNSWICK, BALKE & COLLANDER CO. FRONT AND BACK BAR, CIRCA 1890, THE L.A. MODEL, SOARS TO $302,500 AT OCT. 2-4 AUCTION IN ANN ARBOR, MICH.

Featuring the living estate of former UPS president Ron Wallace, held by Showtime Auction Services

(ANN ARBOR, Mich.) – A monumental mahogany front and back bar made around 1893 by Brunswick, Balke & Collender Co., the desirable Los Angeles model and with an original matching liquor cabinet, soared to $302,500 at the living estate of Ron Wallace – a dedicated collector and former president of UPS – held Oct. 2-4 at the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds in Ann Arbor, Mich.

The three-day auction was held by Showtime Auction Services, based in nearby Woodhaven. The front and back bar was one of the top earners of about 1,700 lots that changed hands in a sale that grossed around $2.2 million. “It was our best auction ever in terms of average dollar amount per lot,” said Mike Eckles of Showtime Auction Services. “It was a very successful sale with several records set.”

One of those records was the front and back bar – 24 feet in wide and 11 feet tall, with hand-carved, life-size nude supports between beveled mirrors, each weighing 140 pounds and standing 5 feet 4 inches tall. The matching liquor cabinet had adjustable shelves and a zinc-like base. “We’ve only seen two of these bars in 25 years, and only one with a matching original liquor cabinet,” Mr. Eckles said.

Another record was established for saloon doors when a set made circa 1902, also by Brunswick, Balke & Collender Co., brought $77,000. The solid mahogany swinging saloon doors, 96 inches wide by 78 inches tall, were originally from a saloon in Milwaukee and had applied carvings at the top. They were refinished 25 years ago and had a great patina, with beveled glass incorporated in all the panels.

Mr. Wallace, the sale’s headliner, is a larger-than-life figure. He resides in a spectacular, 44,000-square-foot home in suburban Atlanta, where his collections of vintage firearms, advertising, gambling, saloon, brothel and country store items were kept. But the auction also featured a treasure trove of over 1,000 rare and vintage toys, plus barber shop, soda fountain and advertising collectibles, and other items.

About 350 bidders attended the auction in person, while another 100 people bid by phone and 125 others submitted absentee bids. Online bidding was facilitated by LiveAuctioneers.com and iCollector.com, with over 150 people registered to bid online. “The bidders in attendance had a great time and really enjoyed room hopping at the Weber’s Inn in Ann Arbor,” Mr. Eckles said. “We didn’t see much evidence of a recession. People came to spend money.”

Following are additional highlights from the sale. All prices quoted include a 10 percent buyer’s premium.

A rare Gold Medal Oil two-sided porcelain sign, made by Veribrite Signs (Chicago), 30 inches in diameter and one of only three known to exist, realized $44,000; a Rock Island System Railroad reverse glass and mother of pearl inlaid sign, one of only a few known and in excellent condition, went for $33,000; and a rare Ashbury Bar, Jackson Lager reverse glass corner sign (circa 1910) hit $24,150.

A later replica Rolls Royce version of a Moxiemobile car, made in the 1930s and used in parades to promote the soft drink Moxie, topped out at $21,850; a straight razor display case with 18 assorted celluloid handle straight razors, with brass price tags, climbed to $16,500; and a La Preferencia Cigar reverse glass sign in original frame (Tuchfarber Co., Cincinnati, Ohio, 1909) also went for $16,500.

A Consumers Brewing Company label under glass display mug, 10 inches tall, with handle, achieved $15,400 despite some minor flaws; an Early Hazard or Big Six table, with wheel, chip rack, hazard horn and disc (marked Evans, Chicago, Ill.), with claw feet, made $15,400; and extremely rare gambling ring guns, six-shot, with original bullets and case, in excellent condition, commanded $14,300.

An American National pedal car of a Hudson (Toledo, Ohio, 1932), with original paint and minor scratches, 48 inches long, sped off for $11,000; an extremely rare double roulette table by B.C. Willis Co. (Detroit, Mich.), with William Ellis early layouts, one of only three known, brought $11,000; and an Ivory Poker Buck (circa 1880), with a front that reads “You Deal,” changed hands for $10,350.

A hand-carved Ivory Playing Card Press from the 1880s, with an unusual screw mechanism and the only example known, possibly a gift to a gambling industry executive, rose to $9,350; a prostitute’s garter (circa 1890s), with fancy beaded trim and reading “Oh Stop!”, 7 inches, breezed to $8,800; and an Oliver Chilled Plow Wood Sand sign (circa late 1880s), in excellent original condition, realized $7,700.

A Daisy Air Rifles paper banner titled “The Happy Daisy Boy,” with metal bands top and bottom, 14 inches by 21 inches, hit the mark for $7,150; a late 1800s trade sign for Eagle Halls Light Divine Optometrist with great visual appeal, 54 inches by 30 inches, fetched $6,600; and a Lucky Strike three-dimensional die-cut quad-fold store window cardboard display with four athletes brought $6,325.

Rounding out the top lots: a cast-iron cigar advertising clock for Katy Flyer Cigars in the shape of a train engine, possibly a one-of-a-kind and an exceptional example of tobacciana, made by Golden Novelty Mfg. Co. (Chicago, Ill.) crossed the finish line at $5,775; and a Will & Finck Faro Case Keeper in a cherry wood frame, with hand-carved boxwood cards, pips and ivory beads, garnered $5,463.

Showtime Auction Services already has four exciting sales lined up for 2010, starting with a Catalog Auction that ends Jan. 15. Offered will be a wonderful selection of country store, advertising and miscellaneous items, in an absentee, phone and Internet only auction. Then, on Apr. 9-11, a Live Auction will be held at the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds in Ann Arbor (catalogs ready Mar. 1).

A Summer Catalog Auction (absentee, phone and Internet bidding only) will end July 9, then the year will conclude with a Live Fall Auction Oct. 1-3, also in Ann Arbor. Like the Apr. 9-11 sale the fall event will feature a nice selection of gambling, coin-op, country store, advertising and miscellaneous items. Absentee, phone and Internet bids will also be accepted.

Showtime Auction Services is always accepting quality consignments for future auctions. To
consign an item, an estate or a collection, you may call Mike Eckles of Showtime Auction Services at (951) 453-24154. His e-mail address is mikeckles@aol.com. To learn more about Showtime Auction Services and the upcoming calendar of events slated for 2010, log on to www.showtimeauctions.com.


Front and back bar:
Front and back bar with original matching liquor cabinet by Brunswick, Balke & Collender Co. ($302,500, a record).




Saloon doors:
Solid mahogany swinging saloon doors by Brunswick, Balke & Collender Co. ($77,000 a record).




Lucky Strike:
Rare Lucky Strike three-dimensional die-cut quad-fold store window cardboard display ($6,325).




Moxiemobile:
Later ‘30s replica of a Rolls Royce version Moxiemobile, used in parades to promote Moxie ($21,850).



Display mug:
Consumers Brewing Company label under glass display mug, 10 inches tall, with handle ($15,400).




Porcelain sign:
Very rare Gold Medal Oil two-sided porcelain sign, made by Veribrite Signs of Chicago, Ill. ($44,000).



Pedal car:
American National pedal car, Hudson, 1932 (Toledo, Oh.), with original paint, 48 inches long ($11,000).

RARE TIFFANY STERLING AND MIXED METALS SALT & PEPPER SHAKERS HAMMER FOR $4,000 AT MULTI-ESTATE SALE HELD SEPT. 25-26 BY RICHARD D. HATCH & ASSOCIATES

Contact: Richard D. Hatch
(828) 696-3440

RARE TIFFANY STERLING AND MIXED METALS SALT & PEPPER SHAKERS HAMMER FOR $4,000 AT MULTI-ESTATE SALE HELD SEPT. 25-26 BY RICHARD D. HATCH & ASSOCIATES

(FLAT ROCK, N.C.) – A gorgeous pair of rare Tiffany sterling silver and mixed metals salt and pepper shakers, each piece standing 3 ¾ inches tall and in the flying crane décor, hammered for $4,000 at a multi-estate sale held Sept. 25-26 by Richard D. Hatch & Associates. The set went to a determined bidder from New York City. The sale held at the Richard D. Hatch gallery, located at 913 Upward Road.

"This sale really had something for everybody,” said Richard D. Hatch of the auction, which featured over 1,400 lots and grossed more than $250,000. A little over 200 people packed the showroom facility, while 340 bidders registered online, via LiveAuctioneers.com. Absentee and phone bidding participation was also strong, but Mr. Hatch expressed some disappointment over generally flat prices.

“Attendance was strong,” he pointed out, “but prices for mid-level antiques, furniture and collectible items remains low. The way I see it, if you loved the piece when it was selling at $500, then you should still be loving it when it drops to $250. A lot of items are selling for half what they brought a couple of years ago. Now is the time to start a collection or add to a collection, or decorate your home.”

Mr. Hatch also noticed a trend with regard to online bidding. “With eBay no longer participating with eBay Live, online bidding sign-up numbers have dropped by about 70 percent. But those that sign up through LiveAuctioneers.com, which we use and like, seem to be more serious buyers. Of the 340 online bidders in this recent sale, 121 were successful. Twenty-one percent of all lots were sold online.”

Following are additional highlights from the sale. All prices quoted are hammer, exclusive of either the 10 percent in-house or 15 percent Internet and live telephone bidding buyer's premium.

Fine art was served up in abundance. An original oil painting by noted British artist William E. Harris (1856-1929) crossed the block at $1,300, while a pencil-signed lithograph by American pop art icon Leroy Nieman was a virtual steal at just $200. Also, a bronze statue of a dog by 19th century French artist Ferdinand Barbedienne (1810-1892) topped out at $600 – another good buy, considering the artist.

Furniture generally brought bargain prices. A period Chippendale slant-front desk coasted to $800; a period Chippendale mirror fetched $350; a set of eight original Hitchcock chairs garnered $700; a North Carolina pine cupboard went for $800; a back bar from a local barber shop (circa 1915) rose to $600; and a mid-century dining room set by Heywood Wakefield sold for the bargain price of just $450.

The gallery was loaded with fine china and glassware. A 67-piece set of Bavarian china sold for just $100; a 54-piece set of Lenox china in the Autumn pattern breezed to $750; a large collection of Victorian art glass syrup pitchers delighted the crowd and went for $50-$450 each; and an unusual 19th century Meissen covered biscuit box made $800. Also, one lot of two nice old violins brought $3,100.

The showroom gleamed with sterling silver flatware sets. A 94-piece set of Chantilly by Gorham demanded $1,750; a 60-piece set of King Edward by Gorham changed hands for $850; a 79-piece set of Rose by Stieff reached $1,500; an 81-piece set of Burgundy by Reed & Barton made $2,750; a 63-piece set of Buttercup by Gorham hit $1,000; and a 63-piece set of Strasbourg by Gorham garnered $1,600.

Jewelry cases were also loaded to the brim. A Cartier men’s Santos wristwatch, appraised at $6,750, went for just $1,100; a Cartier diamond dress clip was snapped up for $500; a stunning star ruby and diamond pendant commanded $2,000; and a dazzling Deco diamond bar pin hit $2,750. Also, an original silver gelatin print photo of a nude Marilyn Monroe, taken by Lawrence Schiller, made $600.

Richard D. Hatch & Associates is celebrating 30 years in the auction business. Mr. Hatch sees a steady flow of diverse and quality items come through his gallery. “The real challenge in today’s market,” he said, “is to find buyers to absorb all the merchandise at prices that are fair to the buyers and sellers alike. Much of it comes from past customers, reminding us that we are all temporary caretakers.”

Mr. Hatch is constantly marketing his auctions in new and fresh ways, to help attract new bidders (through appraisal fairs, lectures, courses, etc.). In this way he strives to help boost interest in the field. “We must do all we can to educate people and promote an industry that has slowed down drastically,” he said. “The joy of collecting is still there. With prices down, we must attract a new group of buyers.”

Richard D. Hatch & Associates’ next big sale will be the 21st annual Asian & Oriental Auction, slated for the weekend of Nov. 20-21, at the gallery in Flat Rock, N.C. The firm is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single item, an estate or an entire collection, you may call them directly, at (828) 696-3440, or you can e-mail them, at hatchauctioninfo@yahoo.com.

To learn more about Richard D. Hatch & Associates and the upcoming Nov. 20-21 Asian & Oriental Auction, please log on to www.richardhatchauctions.com.


Salt and pepper:
Set of rare Tiffany sterling silver and mixed metals salt and pepper shakers ($4,000).




Monroe photo:
Original silver gelatin print photo of a nude Marilyn Monroe, taken by Lawrence Schiller ($600).




Deco pin:
Dazzling Deco diamond bar pin ($2,750).




Harris painting:
This original oil painting by noted British artist William E. Harris (1856-1929) brought $1,300.




Antique violins:
One lot comprising two nice old violins was a surprise hit of the sale, rising to $3,100.




Sterling flatware:
This 94-piece sterling silver flatware set of Chantilly by Gorham changed hands for $1,750.

THE LIFETIME COLLECTION OF BRAD & EUNICE WITT – VICTORIAN FURNITURE, FRENCH DOLLS, BABES IN THE WOODS, YARD LONGS, FLOW BLUE, R.S. PRUSSIA,

Contact: Jason Woody
(316) 747-2694

THE LIFETIME COLLECTION OF BRAD & EUNICE WITT – VICTORIAN FURNITURE, FRENCH DOLLS, BABES IN THE WOODS, YARD LONGS, FLOW BLUE, R.S. PRUSSIA,
MORE TO BE SOLD SATURDAY, NOV. 14, BY WOODY AUCTION IN ST. CHARLES, MO.

(ST. CHARLES, Mo.) - The contents of the antique shop and items from the personal collection of Brad and Eunice Witt, formerly of Missouri, will be sold without reserve on Saturday, Nov. 14, in the grand ballroom (upper level) of the St. Charles Convention Center, located at exit 229 of I-70. The auction will be conducted by Woody Auction, based in Douglass, Kan., with a start time of 9:30 a.m.

Sold will be over 300 lots of Victorian furniture, vintage French dolls, Babes in the Woods items, Yard Longs, Flow Blue, R.S. Prussia and more. “Brad and Eunice have decided to downsize their private collection and small antique shop,” Jason Woody said, “and as with every Woody Auction, all items will sell to the highest bidder, without reserve. Come prepared for a really exciting auction.”

Mr. Woody said he isn't sure what to expect from this sale, since period furniture isn't something he typically offers. “The R.S. Prussia and Flow Blue people will be there. I can always count on them,” he stated, “but we'll just have to see regarding the furniture. If the quality and consistency of the pieces count for anything, then it should be a wild success. We've got some truly wonderful furniture items.”

Some of those furniture items will include a super Victorian walnut drop-front dresser/etagere attributed to Jelliff and featuring a domed cornice with carved bust and heavy burl accent; a rare 8-foot ornate oak display cabinet with large winged gargoyle supports, beveled glass door and lots of carving; and an all-original Belter recamier with carved apron surrounded by heavy scrolls and grape clusters.

About 20 Babes in the Woods pieces, all circa 1880-1920, will cross the block. Expected to pique bidder interest will be a rare and excellent Royal Doulton winter season plaque depicting a lady and child in the woods during a snowstorm; a Royal Doulton oval plaque showing a lady playing the mandolin; and a very rare tall (16 ¾ inches) Royal Doulton vase, spring season, with a lady and girl.

Yard longs are so-named because they're just that – about a yard long. The long, skinny prints usually show women, but sometimes flowers and fruit. Two pieces in the sale that should do well are a 1916 Clay Robinson & Co. advertising calendar, with a woman in a blue hat surrounded by flowers; and a Temptation Candy Girl calendar print, the only one known and with 10 of the 12 months intact.

R.S. Prussia pieces will include a wonderful 15 ½ inch carnation mold center piece bowl, cobalt blue, with great size, color and condition; and an outstanding 6-piece plume mold ice cream set, with 13-inch oval tray and five matching bowls, cobalt blue with nice gold highlights. Also sold will be a nice Victorian bride's basket with fireglow ruffled bowl by Sandwich Glass and large silver plate frame.

Fans of vintage French dolls will not be disappointed. Anticipated top achievers include a gorgeous 29 ½ inch tete Jumeau closed-mouth doll with an ornate beige and blue costume with matching hat; and a beautiful 25-inch Jumeau doll (size 12), dressed in a lavender Victorian costume with matching hat and plumes and lifelike hair with blond curls. Many other examples will be sold.

Flow Blue is a common offering at many Woody Auctions, and this one will be no exception. Pieces include a 23 ¼ inch Royal Doulton burslem umbrella stand/floor vase in the Jessica pattern, with great color, pattern and size; and a 6- inch by 8-inch Nonpareil pattern handled tray by Burgess & Leigh. Also sold will be a 7-foot Victorian walnut easel with inlaid ebony designs and gold highlights.

Returning to Victorian furniture, the following will be sold: a magnificent and important etagere attributed Mitchells & Rammelsberg, 108 inches by 74 inches, with four shelves, large carved finial, deep pocket crest, great carving, and a huge mirror back with four swivel mirrors on each side; and a Victorian red velvet pin cushion chair with bride's floral head piece, bride's flowers and beveled mirror.

Also from the furniture category: a walnut center room parlor table attributed to Mallard, with long carved floral finial and rose and scroll design; a mahogany partner's desk attributed to Horner, with large cherub legs; a beautiful and rare Karpen mahogany barrel-shaped parlor set with love seat and two arm chairs; and a Victorian walnut marble-top table by Brooks, with a large carved pedestal.

Rounding out the expected top lots: an outstanding three-piece figural clock set with bronze women holding a cherub above their head surrounding the clock, with 40-inch tall side pieces consisting of a woman holding a 6-arm candelabra above the head, and every piece matched on bronze marble and gilt metal base; and a 54-inch floor fan with light, Luminaire, by the Cincinnati Victor Co.

Online bidding will be facilitated by Proxibid.com. Proxibid terms and conditions will apply. There will be no phone bidding, but absentee bids will be accepted with a written statement indicating the amount of the bid (deadline: noon Thursday, Nov. 12). Absentee bids will be charged an additional 10 percent of the sale price and may be faxed (316-747-2145) or e-mailed (info@woodyauction.com).

Inventory items from Mr. And Mrs. Witt's antique shop will be charged 7.45 percent unless a current sales tax number is provided. Items from their private collection are indicated with an asterisk (*) and will not be charged a sales tax. As for lodging, the Embassy Suites Hotel (636-946-5544) is connected directly to the Convention Center. The Fairfield Inn (636-946-1000) is across the street.

Woody Auction's next big sale after this one will be held the very next weekend, on Saturday, Nov. 21, in Wichita, Kan. Offered will be art glass, Oriental furniture, clocks, pickle casters and more. Check the website (www.woodyauction.com) as the sale date approaches. Updates are posted often. To inquire about consigning an item, an estate or collection to Woody Auction, you may call them at (316) 747-2694, or e-mail them at mailto:info@woodyauction. For more info, log on to woodyauction.com.


Etagere:
Magnificent etagere attributed to Mitchells & Rammelsberg, with four shelves and carved finial.

Yard Long:
Very rare Yard Long calendar print, titled Temptation Candy Girl, the only example known to exist.




R. S. Prussia:
Wonderful 15 ½ inch R.S. Prussia carnation mold centerpiece bowl, cobalt blue, great condition.




Clock set:
Outstanding 3-piece bronze figural clock set, each piece matched on brown marble and gilt metal base.




Jumeau doll:
Beautiful 29 ½ inch Tete Jumeau French closed-mouth doll with ornate costume and matching hat.




Babes in Woods:
Gorgeous 14 inch by 10 ¾ inch oval Babes in Woods plaque with a summer scene of a lady and girl.




Brides Basket:
Victorian-era Brides Basket with fireglow ruffled bowl by Sandwich Glass and silver plate frame.

3-VOLUME SET OF J.R.R. TOLKIEN’S LORD OF THE RINGS, ONE SIGNED BY THE AUTHOR, SELLS FOR $14,600 AT MULTI-ESTATE SALE HELD OCT. 3-4 BY PHILIP WEISS AUC

Contact: Philip Weiss
(516) 594-0731

3-VOLUME SET OF J.R.R. TOLKIEN’S LORD OF THE RINGS, ONE SIGNED BY THE AUTHOR, SELLS FOR $14,600 AT MULTI-ESTATE SALE HELD OCT. 3-4 BY PHILIP WEISS AUCTIONS

(OCEANSIDE, N.Y.) – A 3-volume set of the iconic Lord of the Rings trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien (The Fellowship of the Rings, The Two Towers and The Return of the King), with one of the books signed by the author himself, sold for $14,600 at a two-day weekend multi-estate sale held Oct. 3-4 by Philip Weiss Auctions. The books were in very good condition and all had their original dust jackets.

The set was one of about 1,300 lots that changed hands over the course of the weekend. Offered were fresh-to-the-market items in an impressive array of categories, to include stamps, coins, rare books, autographs, postcards, sports items, comics, comic art, rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia, pop culture items and more. The sale was held at the Philip Weiss Auctions spacious showroom at #1 Neil Court in Oceanside.

Philip Weiss estimated the crowd at around 250-350 people over the course of the two days. He said an additional 800-1,000 people placed bids online, through Proxibid.com and the firm’s website, at http://www.prwauctions.com/. Also, about 3,000 absentee bids were recorded, while phone bidding was brisk both days. The sale grossed approximately $475,000. “It was a very active weekend,” Mr. Weiss said.

Following are additional highlights from the auction. All prices quoted include a 13 percent buyer’s premium.

The top lot of the sale was an original pen-and-ink daily comic strip by the renowned illustrator Charles Schulz. Dated Sept. 6, 1954, the strip was a great example of an early Peanuts comic, with a story that featured Peppermint Patty and Pigpen. It gaveled for $28,250. Another original Peanuts daily strip by Schulz – dated Apr. 30, 1977 and featuring Peppermint Patty practicing her math – hit $12,400.

Staying in the comic art category, an original Tarzan Sunday page by Burne Hogarth, dated Aug. 25, 1940 and featuring a story titled Deadly Passage, with Tarzan swimming for his life, soared to $11,550. Another Tarzan Sunday page by Hogarth, dated May 12, 1940 and featuring a story titled The Lone Avenger, with Tarzan battling Prince Jagurt, hit $9,040. Both comics were missing their stat titles.

Disney animation cels did extremely well. A Courvoisier cel set-up of Brer Rabbit from the film Song of the South, in the original matte with a wonderful inscription signed by Disney, fetched $8,725; a production cel from Snow White, showing three dwarves on a Courvoisier background, rose to $4,600; and an enormous cel of Monstro from the movie Pinocchio on a Courvoisier background made $4,900.

Speaking of Disney, the original art for a map of Disneyland – an oil and pastel on board work executed in 1958 and believed to have been painted by Sam McKim (known as “the cartographer of Disneyland”) realized $3,600. The map measured 22 inches by 40 inches and was marked with “Walt Disney Productions” on a paper label. It had fine detailing, albeit no TWA insignia on the moon rocket.

A 1973 Salvador Dali book, titled Les Diners de Gala and inscribed by the Surrealist painter to model and actress Genevieve Gillaizeau, with an original drawing, topped out at $3,500. The book boasted a clean dust jacket and wonderful provenance. Also, a T-204 Ramly Cigarettes baseball card of pitching great Walter Johnson – a key card to a popular set and graded SGC 40 VG 3 – brought $8,300.

A turn-of-the-century poster for the legendary magician Kellar by H.A. Thomas, depicting Kellar’s lithographic image and measuring 28 ½ inches by 18 inches, achieved $5,650. The poster had some staining and tears, but its rarity overrode the imperfections. Also, an 1853 slavery broadside, offering a $150 reward for “the Return of My Negro Man Arch” (Fairfax County, Va.), earned $4,520.

Philip Weiss Auctions’ next big sale will be another weekend event, planned for Nov. 14-15, with 10 am start times both days. The Saturday, Nov. 14 session will feature 250 lots of baby boomer material from the Steve Rathkopf Collection, over 300 lots of toy trains, mostly mint in the box, plus unopened set boxes, to include Marklin, Lionel, LGB and more. Other toys and trains will also be sold.

The Sunday, Nov. 15 session will kick off with an important military sale, featuring the lifetime collection of Edward Golaski. Featured will be hundreds of lots of rifles, guns, swords, knives, hats, important European military medals and paraphernalia. Aldo offered will be a great collection of Civil War cartes de visites (many identified and signed, with an emphasis on Indiana and Illinois Regiments).

Also sold will be a rare Smith & Wesson revolving rifle, Sharp rifles, a British Waterloo medal, a selection of Colt pistols, World War II German items and more. The session will also include a single-owner collection of presidential memorabilia, to include Teddy Roosevelt material, porcelains and other historical items. Also auctioned will be high-graded U.S. currency, including Gem Educational Notes.

The sale will also feature over 200 lots from the Ken Schultz estate, to include postcards, posters, ocean liner models, silverware and more; a single-owner Zeppelin collection; more from the Weaver circus collection; Coca-Cola items, to include a rare promotional phone card; and a brick from the famed Cavern Club in England, signed by slain Beatle John Lennon at one of his performances there in 1962.

Then, a huge auction featuring quality, fresh-to-the-market merchandise from prominent local estates and important collections, is planned for Friday, Nov. 27, beginning at 1 pm. Just a few of the highlights include a monumental Francois Linke four-door dore bronze mounted cabinet with ram’s head and lyres, and a mirror plateau with French ormolu mounts by G. Bointaburet (Paris, circa 1880).

Other highlights will include a pair of F. Barbedienne bronze plaques, a 19th-century gilt bronze plaque with dancing putti, Sevres hand-painted plaques, a signed bronzed and enamel box, 19th-century Oriental porcelain, hand-painted and enameled vases, a monumental gilt bronze centerpiece, nice French porcelains and decorative bronze, Oriental rugs and a gilt French Trimue mirror with top center painting.

From the fine art category, offerings that day will include a Hudson River large-size oil painting attributed to Girlando Marsiglia (one of the 15 founders of the National Academy), a great collection of Art Nouveau and other posters, and more. In December, Philip Weiss Auctions will hold a “Let’s Go Hog Wild” sale, featuring a single-owner collection of pig memorabilia (toys, antiques, bronzes, more).

Philip Weiss Auctions is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item, an estate or an entire collection, you may call them directly, at (516) 594-0731, or you can e-mail them at phil@prwauctions.com. To learn more about the company and its calendar of upcoming sales, to include the Nov. 14-15 weekend event, log on to http://www.prwauctions.com/. Updates are posted frequently.

Lord of the Rings:
Three-volume set of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, one book signed by author J.R.R. Tolkein ($14,600).




Peanuts daily:
The top lot of the sale was this original Peanuts comic strip from 1954 by Charles Schulz ($28,250).




Song of the South:
Courvoisier cel set-up of Brer Rabbit from the movie Song of the South, signed by Disney ($8,725).




Kellar poster:
Rare, turn-of the-century poster for the legendary magician Kellar, by H.A. Thomas ($5,650).




Slave broadside:
Fairfax Cty., Va., 1853 slavery broadside, offering a $150 reward for the return of a slave ($4,520).




Walter Johnson card:
T-204 Ramly Cigarettes baseball card of pitcher Walter Johnson, graded SGC 40 VG 3 ($8,300).

EXTREMELY RARE 1940 GABEL KURO JUKEBOX SOARS TO $120,750 – A NEW RECORD PRICE FOR A JUKEBOX AT AUCTION – AT OCT. 3 SALE HELD BY HAL HUNT AUCTIONS

Contact: Hal Hunt
(205) 333-2517

EXTREMELY RARE 1940 GABEL KURO JUKEBOX SOARS TO $120,750 – A NEW RECORD PRICE FOR A JUKEBOX AT AUCTION – AT OCT. 3 SALE HELD BY HAL HUNT AUCTIONS

(NORTHPORT, Ala.) – An extremely rare 1940 Gabel Kuro jukebox – nicknamed “the last jukebox” and one of only six known – sold for $120,750 at the sale of the world-famous jukebox and advertising collection of the late John Gurrech of Houston, Tex., held Oct. 3 by Hal Hunt Auctions. It was a new world record price for a jukebox at auction and the top earner in a sale that featured 550 lots.

The Gabel Kuro had been lovingly and painstakingly restored over a period of several years by Mr. Gurrech, who personally restored nearly every jukebox offered that day. The machine, which plays 78 rpm records, is in the Art Deco style – exactly what the buyer, a gentleman from South Carolina, was looking for. He purchased the jukebox to install in his multi-million dollar, Art Deco-themed residence.

Another auction record was also set at the sale – the highest price paid to date for a Wurlitzer jukebox. It was an unrestored 1936 Model 35, a prototype of a jukebox that never even went into production and one of only three known. Mr. Gurrech passed away before he could work his magic on it but the example still sold for $77,625, a new auction record. The buyer was a gentleman from Austria.

Other Wurlitzers that also did well included a Model 950, made in 1942 ($48,875); Model 850 Peacock, made in 1941 ($41,400); a Model 800, made in 1940 ($14,375); a Model 1015, made in 1946 and probably the most recognized of all the early Wurlitzers ($14,950); and a Model 71 table-top jukebox ($12,075).

“I guess when you make two new world auction records in the same day, you’d have to say the sale was a success,” said Hal Hunt of Hal Hunt Auctions. “But beside that, I must say this was one of the most exciting sales I’ve done in my twenty-five years in the business. The excitement in the room was palpable. It was one of those sales where you just didn’t know from lot to lot what an item would bring.”

Mr. Hunt said Mr. Gurrech’s keen eye for the best jukeboxes in the world, plus his uncanny ability to take a machine in poor condition and restore it to “Mercedes Benz showroom like-new condition, inside and out,” contributed to the sale’s success. “Usually when you see old examples like this, they’re in deplorable condition,” he said, “plus there are only a few truly good restorers out there.”

About 350 people packed the Hal Hunt Auctions showroom, located at 5925 Highway 43 in Northport. They poured in literally from around the world, from countries like Belgium, Austria, France and Canada. Mr. Hunt also estimated about half the fifty states in the country were represented. “The audience was full of energy and excitement for the entire duration of the sale, all seven hours,” he said.

Additional highlights from the sale follow. All prices quoted include a 15 percent buyer’s premium.

Wurlitzer is a name practically synonymous with jukeboxes, and many other finely restored examples changed hands that day. Top achievers included a Model 1100, made in 1948 ($13,800); a colorful Victory Cabinet machine, made sometime during World War II ($10,350); a colorful Model 1050, manufactured circa 1973-74 ($6,325); and a stately looking Model 24, made in 1938 ($5,175).

Rock-Olas also did well. The same bidder who scored the 1940 Gabel Kuro also purchased a tall and handsome Rock-Ola Spectrovox, made in 1941, for $34,500. Also, 10-12 Rock-Ola “woodies” (so-named because of their rich, wood-grain cabinets) included a Model RM-16, made in 1937; a Model B, made in 1936; and a Model RK-12 “Rhythm King,” made in 1937. These brought $2,875-$8,625 each.

A Rock-Ola Model 1428, the “Christmas Tree” model, made in 1948, climbed to $6,612, while a Rock-Ola Model 1422, made in 1946, coasted to $7,475. Three Seeburg “trash cans” (named for their shape – Models 146 from 1946, 147 from 1947 and 148 from 1948) – garnered $2,070-$3,450 each. Also, a Seeburg Model V-200, made in 1950 and with a 200-disc storage capacity, hit $5,462, a record.

A Seeburg Model W-100, the first jukebox with a light-up pilaster made of fiberglass, demanded $6,900; a John Gabel “Rainbow” model, made in 1938, changed hands for $18,975; a Capehart machine made in 1935 realized $4,025; an AMI “Top Flight” model, made circa 1936-37, brought $8,050 (other AMI jukeboxes ranged from $1,725-$2,875 each); and 85 wall box jukeboxes made $175-$3,450 each.

One of the more curious items in the sale was a “Strike Up the Band” band-box, a clever plug-in novelty item that sits atop a jukebox. When the music begins to play, the curtain to the band-box opens, revealing a Lawrence Welk-style band that appears to be playing along with the music. Then, when the song ends, the musicians stop playing, too, and the curtain is drawn closed. The novelty sold for $6,325.

Among the many rare music machines that changed hands, a rare 1961-62 Scopitone model, the first unit to project movies or music videos, reached $4,025; an unrestored 1939 Seeburg Play Boy (also known as a “Stroller” because it could be wheeled from room to room) garnered $6,038; a Penny Phono brought $6,038; a Filben (Micrfo-CLE Music) fetched $5,175; and a Maestro Music soared to $5,750.

Antique music boxes included a 27-inch mahogany Regina changer ($17,250); a 15 ½-inch Regina bowfront changer, in a rare oak case ($19,550); a 25-inch mahogany floor model Regina disc player ($10,925); a singing bird cage with pedestal ($4,255); a Cremona oak player piano with stained glass ($1,840); and a band organ with great sound ($1,955). Also, a Maestro Music speaker hit $4,600.

Mr. Gurrech’s advertising collection was nearly as impressive as his jukeboxes. A rare Rebel Gas sign breezed to $3,565; a Mobil gas winged horse sign fetched $2,875; a Derby Oils sign brought $1,610; three gas pumps averaged around $1,150 each; eight gas globes made about $345-$920 each; and about 30 other signs (including Southern Select Beer and Grand Prize Beer) hit $115-$1,725 each.

Rounding out the top lots: a Johnny Cash Sun record signed by the singer drew $748; records by country legend Hank Williams went for $115-$175 each; boxes of records realized $30-$300 each; an antique Philco TV set reached $2,875; a 1954 calendar featuring a nude Marilyn Monroe made $748; a restored oak Koken barber chair with leather upholstery brought $2,875; a Koken porcelain barber chair sold for $3,162; and a monumental pair of mahogany winged griffin carved arm chairs fetched $6,612.

Hal Hunt is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. The firm also purchases items and entire collections for resale at auction. To inquire about consigning or selling an item, an estate or an entire collection, you may call them directly, at (205) 333-2517; or, you can e-mail them at halhunt@bellsouth.net. To learn more about Hal Hunt Auctions, please log on to http://www.halhunt.com/.

Gabel Kuro:
The top lot of the sale was this extremely rare 1940 Gabel Kuro jukebox, one of only six known ($120,750).



Wurlitzer Model 35:
This unrestored 1936 Wurlitzer Model 35 prototype jukebox soared to $77,625, a new auction record for a Wurlitzer.



Wurlitzer Model 950:
Beautiful and beautifully restored Wurlitzer Model 950 vintage jukebox, made in 1942 ($48,875).



Regina bowfront:
Regina bowfront changer antique music box, 15 ½ inch, in a rare oak case ($19,550).



Band-Box:
One of the more curious items in the sale was this “Strike Up the Band” band-box novelty plug-in device ($6,325).



Koken chair:
Porcelain vintage Koken barber chair, one of two Koken barber chairs offered in the sale ($3,162).

LIQUIDATION OF $8 MILLION AND 11 TRACTOR TRAILERS' WORTH OF INVENTORY PURCHASED FOR THE MOST EXPENSIVE HOME IN THE WORLD FROM THE EXCLUSIVE YELLOWSTON

Contact: Chrissy Will
(404) 252-3770

LIQUIDATION OF $8 MILLION AND 11 TRACTOR TRAILERS' WORTH OF INVENTORY PURCHASED FOR THE MOST EXPENSIVE HOME IN THE WORLD FROM THE EXCLUSIVE YELLOWSTONE CLUB IN MONTANA WILL BE HELD NOV. 6-7-8 AT RED BARON'S

(ATLANTA, GA.) – Red Baron’s Antiques, the Southeast’s premier auction house, will be liquidating about $8 million and 11 tractor trailers' worth of the finest and most fantastic furnishings from the world-famous Yellowstone Club in Montana, the only private ski resort in the world. The Yellowstone inventory is the expected highlight of a three-day auction event slated for Nov. 6th, 7th and 8th at Red Baron’s showroom, located at 6450 Roswell Road in Atlanta.

Over the past 10-15 years, the Yellowstone Club has amassed only the best of fine furnishings, architectural appointments and décor, intended to furnish some of their more lavish estates. One of the largest additions to their community was cited in Forbes magazine as “the most expensive home in the world.” And with 10 bedrooms, 53,000 square feet of living space and an asking price of $155 million, one can see how luxurious this community really is.

But, owing to unforeseen and recent financial circumstances, the Yellowstone Club has had to let go of these rare and extravagant pieces. Their misfortune can become your good fortune, as Red Baron’s will be selling this crème de la crème of items made for the wealthiest of people to the highest bidder, without reserve, which is a truly rare opportunity.

Offerings from the Yellowstone Club inventory are great and varied, containing everything from outdoor emblishments to furnishings. This includes a wonderfully detailed fountain from the entrance of the Yellowstone Club’s main lodge, carved from Vicenza stone and depicting bears climbing on rocks. It is surrounded by coping and stands a monumental 21 feet high.

Interior furnishings include everything from what one would need to outfit a complete room to pieces that would complement any décor. One lot comprises two monumental bookcase walls, masterfully executed in Circassian walnut and complimented by an additional smaller bookcase crowned with a clock, as well as two tall and narrow side cases. These pieces were originally from a prominent home in Grenoble, France, and bear the signature of V. Roybon, a renowned 19th-century carver and cabinetmaker. A focal Alpine oil painting is beautifully inset between two fluted columns on both larger wall cases and surrounded with egg and dart capitals, as well as regal mid-relief lion masks.

A dramatic Classical pediment, relief-carved, with profiles of Socrates and Plato, complete these stunning pieces, which measure 13 feet tall by 19 feet wide.
Stand-alone interior furnishings include a pair of large beautiful walnut and ebony American Renaissance cabinets by Thomas Brooks, measuring 10 feet tall by 7.5 feet wide; and a fine English rococo sideboard in mahogany (89 inches tall by 105 inches wide) with two female figures holding cornucopia and supporting the surface. The acanthus swags rise and support the mirror, which has a dramatic, pierce-carved frame.

Another lot certain to wow the crowd is a pair of spectacular Venetian torcheres in Carpathian walnut to be sold as a single lot. The torcheres rest on three scrolled feet on scalloped rests that converge to form a shaft atop which sits an urn-shaped pedestal adorned with regal cartouches and carved floral swags. Two figures with drape cloths, a male and a female, stand atop the pedestals. The torcheres were made in 1889 and stand 11 feet high.

Yet another lot sure to get paddles wagging is a pair of flamboyant Gothic throne chairs fit for a king and queen in black walnut. The stylized twist columns support the seats, which are separated by pierce-carved arm rests formed from integrated winged lions. The seats, 11 feet high, were formerly in a castle in Bavaria. They later graced a mansion in the U.S. that overlooked Chesapeake Bay, Maryland.

A fun piece fit for commercial or home use is a completely restored country store, with a front and back bar in oak that would be perfect for a restaurant or even a country kitchen. The back bar has glassed storage bins, cabinetry and a clock mounted in the fascia.

A great piece of Americana, also from the Yellowstone Club, is an original grape wine front and back bar with stained glass canopy, handsome and expansive at 12 feet high by 18.5 feet wide. Other lots to be sold from Yellowstone include a complete cased knife display, comprising four sections, which are virtually untouched; a pair of gorgeous companion rococo consoles in gilt wood with cabriole legs and a heavily carved tri-glass-door bookcase featuring figural depictions of Atlas and lions, which stands 7 feet tall by 7 feet wide by 25 inches deep.

In addition to the Yellowstone items, Red Baron’s has gorgeous jewelry, such as a 35ct emerald pendent on a 14kt yellow gold fishbone chain; two restored and working carousels; a fabulous inlaid Monarch pool table with original iron lion legs; and many fine examples of classic commercial pieces, such as a carved walnut jewelry store with paw feet (to include a back case with glass shelving, two curved cases, two long cases and three short cases); a fine mahogany American pharmacy from Knight Soda Fountain Co., Chicago; and a splendid soda bar with intricately carved crown, foliate detail and pierced woven pattern.

There are several classic vehicles sure to pique any car enthusiast's curiosity, as well as futuristic, one-of-a-kind automobiles like the 1959 Tornado, with its sleek body that illustrates America’s fascination with futuristic rocket-inspired, mid-century design. For more information on any of these items, the auction, or to request a color catalog, please contact Red Baron’s at (404) 252-3770, or by e-mail at info@rbantiques.com. To see more fantastic Yellowstone Club inventory, as well as a bit of everything else Red Baron’s has to offer, please visit http://www.rbantiques.com/.

Yellowstone Club:
Eleven tractor trailers and $8 million worth of inventory from the Yellowstone Club in Montana will be sold Nov. 6-7-8 by Red Baron's in Atlanta.



Emerald pendant:
Stunning 35ct emerald pendant with diamonds on a 14kt yellow gold fishbone chain.



Plymouth Tornado:
Futuristic 1958 Plymouth Tornado concept car built on the frame of a 1958 Plymouth Fury in 1959, beautifully restored.



Gothic thrones:
Pair of flamboyant and monumental Gothic throne chairs in black walnut, from the Yellowstone Club in Montana.



Monarch pool table:
Original Monarch pool table (circa 1890), with mahogany sides inlaid with rosewood and original cast-iron feet.

Serious ToyzTM Fall 'O9 Online Vintage Toy & Collectible Auction Features a Breathtaking Array of Rare and Sought-After Items

CONTACT: Tom or Patti Miano 866-OLD-TOYZ (866-653-8699)
auctions@serioustoyz.comserioustoyz.com

Serious ToyzTM Fall ‘09 Online Vintage Toy & Collectible Auction Features a Breathtaking Array of Rare and Sought-After Items from
Nationally Recognized Collectors, with Lots Spanning the
Collecting Spectrum and Appealing to Every Budget.

CROTON-ON-HUDSON, NY (October 2, 2009)— It’s being touted as among the most impressive and diverse online auctions of its kind in years and a spectacular opportunity for collectors to bid on an expansive range of classic toys and memorabilia with no reserve prices. Registration and bidding for the Fall ‘09 Online Vintage Toy & Collectible Auction from Serious Toyz is already under way, and offers collectors and aficionados an unparalleled selection of superior vintage toys and collectibles. The auction ends Friday, October 9 at 10:00 p.m. EST for Part One (Character and Classic Toys, 504 lots), and Saturday, October 10 at 10:00 p.m. EST for Part Two (Toy Vehicles, 576 lots). The online auction is found at http://www.serioustoyz.com/.

The Serious Toyz online auction features a total of 1,081 lots of vintage toy collectibles from every conceivable category and appealing to every price point. With lots ranging from tin vehicles, Matchbox cars and Disney characters, to superhero lunch boxes and 1936 celluloid “Popeye the Champ,” the Serious Toyz ’09 Online Vintage Auction represents a panoply of coveted collectible items from some of the industry’s most noteworthy purveyors, consignors and collectors of toy ephemera.

While the challenging economy may still have a stranglehold on some sectors, collectors of vintage toys can take heart, explains Tom Miano, owner of Serious Toyz. “Vintage toy and collectible auction prices continue to be robust, and in many cases, record setting,” Mr. Miano says. “When you combine the expanding popularity of collecting with a finite number of available items, the continual climb in prices for ‘the good stuff’ does make sense. However, ‘good stuff’ does not necessarily mean expensive.” Mr. Miano stresses that Serious Toyz prides itself “on bringing the best items we can offer, in a wide range of collecting categories, at all price ranges. This auction is no exception. Every item we offer gets equal treatment, no matter what the ultimate value. And,” he adds, “we understand it's not how much you spend, but what it is. A true collector will get the same pleasure from adding a $20 item as from a $2,000 item.”

He points out that the Fall ’09 Auction “is another breakthrough” for Serious Toyz, considering the number of higher-priced items up for grabs. There is already a lot of buzz surrounding a stunning, battery-operated remote control 1956 Mark II Continental, featuring front and rear directional lights, manufactured by Linemar (Marx). The two-door sedan “is one of the rarest tin cars in the world,” Mr. Miano says; it is in near pristine condition, and has a minimum bid of $3,500.

Mr. Miano points out that the 1956 Mark II Continental — as well as a significant number of the early character items offered on the online auction — are courtesy of the collection of “a wonderful couple,” both of whom have been ardent toy collectors since the 1970s. “These two were way ahead of the collecting curve,” he points out, “and they were able to gather incredible examples of some of the rarest toys — long before the rest of us caught on.”

A majority of the Disney items and ‘Toons offerings were provided by the couple, in addition to several other important lots, including the 1950s Linemar (Marx) Friction Four Motor Whirling Propeller Airplane with electric wing and tail lights, which is expected to fetch far in excess of its opening bid of $350. And, Mr. Miano adds, “the quality and depth” of such consignments continues to rise with each ensuing auction.

The Serious Toyz Fall ’09 online auction also features numerous pieces consigned by the famed Philadelphia-based brother-and-sister collecting team of Chas and Tracey Rose. “They have once again stepped up with an amazing array of Batman and other Super Hero collectibles,” Mr. Miano says. “They are among the top Batman collectors in the United States,” Mr. Miano adds. “They have an extraordinary collection” and, he notes, “we are extremely pleased that they allow us to share elements of their vast collection with others.”

The “Vehicles” portion of the online auction features a wide range of items from the personal collection of Dr. Douglas Sadecky, one of the most significant collectors in the country, and a respected price guide author. “Most of the Matchbox and Hot Wheels lots are his,” Mr. Miano explains, “as well as a number of other important tin and pressed steel offerings.” A majority of the Beatles lots also belong to Dr. Sadecky, he says. “We are humbled that (Dr. Sadecky) continues to choose us to offer parts of his incredible collections.”The ’09 online auction will also feature items from the collections of a half-dozen other major toy collectors, Mr. Miano points out. “This is a very significant group of consignors,” he notes. “This is a great opportunity for collectors to bid on items of virtually all price points, and in a wide range of collectibles.”

The auction also features “more from the fantastic Greyhound Bus collection” of Paul Reif, Mr. Miano says. A range of battery-operated toys is also available (all opening at $10, with no reserves, Mr. Miano points out), in addition to a large number of lots from Jim Piatti. Mr. Piatti is the author of “Collecting Firefighting Toys.”

Other standouts at the ’09 fall auction include a 1964 battery-operated Dux-Astroman Electric Robot with a beginning bid of $750. Mr. Miano is confident the 12-inch German-made robot “should reach $1,500 or more” once the bidding is closed. Another coveted item is a fully equipped 1965 James Bond attaché case. “It’s one of the Holy Grails of Bond collecting,” Mr. Miano states. With an initial bid of $495, the case and its contents should also garner significantly more.

Literally dozens of consignors have contributed lots to the ’09 online auction, Mr. Miano says, many of whom provided just one or two items for auction. However, he states, their contributions are hardly insignificant: “They round out this auction into one of our best ever!”

Mr. Miano stresses that Serious Toyz online auctions have no “sudden-death” endings (each item has its own computerized clock, and items will close individually when 60 minutes pass without a bid); as such, there is no advantage to or need for participants to wait until the last minute to place their bids, especially if they’re bidding by phone. Bidding before the closing days and using ceiling bids are both advisable, he adds. Pre-registration with a valid credit card is required before a bid can be placed. The serioustoyz.com Internet bidding platform is simpleauctionsite.com.

For Mr. Miano, the thrill of the auction is matched only by the joy of offering this eclectic group of toys and collectibles to others who share his passion for such treasures. “There is something for everyone and in every price point,” he concludes. “It really is rewarding to offer this many lots to so many enthusiastic collectors.”

For more information, please contact Tom or Patti Miano toll-free at 866-OLD-TOYZ (866-653-8699) or via email at serioustoyz@pipeline.com. Visit their Web site at http://www.seriooustoyz.com/.


Cement Truck:
Rare 1961 Matchbox Foden Cement Truck, #26B, gray barrel variation, in the box.

Mark II Continental:
Linemar tin battery-operated remote-control 1956 Mark II Continental car, in the box.



Electric Robot:
Battery-operated remote-control 1964 Dux-Astroman Electric Robot, mint in the box.



Linemar Airplane:
Circa 1950s Linemar Friction Four Motor Whirling Propeller Airplane, in the box.

Popeye & Olive Oyl:
Linemar 1950s Mechanical Juggling Popeye & Olive Oyl toy, near mint in the box.



Mickey Mouse Caddy:
British-style 1930s Mickey Mouse cast-iron ash tray caddy by an unknown manufacturer.