STEVENS AUCTION COMPANY WILL KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH A BANG ON SATURDAY, JAN. 15, AT 10 A.M. (CST); FIVE IMPORTANT ESTATES WILL BE SOLD

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Dwight Stevens
(662) 369-2200
stevensauction@bellsouth.net

STEVENS AUCTION COMPANY WILL KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH A BANG ON SATURDAY, JAN. 15, AT 10 A.M. (CST); FIVE IMPORTANT ESTATES WILL BE SOLD

(ABERDEEN, Miss.) – Stevens Auction Company will kick off 2011 in style with a Jan. 15 multi-estate sale featuring over 600 fresh-to-the-market lots from five important estates (two of which are from just south of Atlanta). The auction will be held at Stevens Auction Company’s gallery, located at 609 North Meridian Street in Aberdeen. The sale will begin at 10 a.m. (CST).

Featured will be beautiful antique furniture, china, silver, hand-made rugs, fantastic lamps, original oil paintings, collectibles, hundreds of pieces of old Victorian glassware and more. An auction preview will be held on Friday, Jan. 14, from 10-6, and on Saturday, the day of sale, from 8-10 a.m. Images of most of the lots may be viewed online, at stevensauction.com.

Furniture by famed artisan J. & J.W. Meeks will include a rosewood rococo laminated pierce-carved sofa in the Stanton Hall pattern (circa 1855), 74 inches long by 50 inches tall; a nice pair of rosewood pierce-carved side parlor chairs in the Hawkins pattern (circa 1855); and a pair of Victorian arm parlor chairs in the Hawkins pattern (48 inches tall by 27 inches wide).

Spectacular bedroom suites are instant crowd-pleasers at most Stevens auctions, and this one will be no exception. Star lots promise to include an Aesthetic movement two-piece burl walnut bedroom suite (bed and dresser) with brown marble, signed Murray and with a great original finish; and a gorgeous, custom-made mahogany half tester queen-size plantation bed.

Original works of fine art will also come under the gavel. Pieces of note include an oil on canvas rendering of a man walking in the mountains by the renowned German landscape painter Ludwig Muninger (1929-1997), measuring 38 inches by 47 inches; and an oil on canvas depiction of an early kitchen scene (circa 1880-1920), signed A. Collins, 15 inches by 18 inches. Vintage mirrors will reflect well on the bidders savvy enough to purchase them. Two examples expected to get paddles wagging include a large gold leaf Victorian hanging mirror, made circa 1850 and measuring 7 feet 11 inches tall by 5 feet wide; and a mahogany Federal three-section hanging mirror with eagle, made circa 1840 and standing a proud 67 inches tall.

Decorative accessories will pique bidder interest, starting with a three-piece Dresden center bowl with figural renderings and flower décor, measuring 27 inches tall by 17 inches wide. Also scheduled to cross the block will be a lovely bronze French mantel clock with cupids, made around 1890 of hand-painted porcelain and measuring 19 inches tall by 11 inches wide.

Shopping for a table? This sale’s got several, and two are worthy of mention: an Empire mahogany banquet table with eight leaves and scroll feet (circa 1880), 60 inches in diameter and 12 feet 4 inches long; and a rosewood Empire center table with insert black marble (circa 1850), measuring 32 inches tall by 44 inches wide by 32 inches deep. Other tables will also be offered.

Other furniture pieces will include a rosewood rococo marble-top etagere, made circa 1885 and measuring 75 inches tall by 51 inches wide; a heavily carved rosewood rococo etagere with bonnet top and white marble (circa 1855), 8 feet 7 inches tall by 4 feet 6 inches wide; and a heavily carved walnut hall tree with full mirror and deer head, 107 inches tall by 54 inches wide.

Rounding out the day’s expected top lots: an inlaid rosewood Victorian breakfront with 53 pieces of beveled glass (some curved), in the original finish (circa 1880), 105 inches tall; a period Empire mahogany butler’s secretary with full columns and 16-pane doors (circa 1840); and a beautiful walnut Victorian two-door bookcase with burl trim and wood pulls (circa 1870).

Reserve seating and phone bids are welcome, with advance arrangements. For a free auction brochure, call (662) 369-2200 or e-mail stevensauction@bellsouth.net. For lodging, call the Best Western Aberdeen Inn at (662) 369-4343, or the Columbus (Miss.) Convention and Visitors Bureau, at (662) 329-1191. Columbus is located about 23 miles from Aberdeen, Miss.

Stevens Auction Company is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single item, an estate or a collection, you may call them directly, at (662) 369-2200; or, you can e-mail them at stevensauction@bellsouth.net. To learn more about Stevens Auction Company and the upcoming Jan. 15 multi-estate sale, please log on to www.stevensauction.com.


Butler’s secretary:
Period Empire mahogany butler’s secretary with full columns and 16-pane doors (circa 1840).

Meeks chairs:
Pair of 19th century Victorian arm parlor chairs in the Hawkins pattern by J. & J. W. Meeks.

Kitchen scene:
Oil on canvas rendering of an early kitchen scene, signed A. Collin, 15 inches by 18 inches.

Mantel clock:
Bronze French mantel clock with cupids, hand-painted porcelain, 19 inches tall (circa 1890).

Dresden bowl:
Three-piece Dresden center bowl with figural renderings and flower décor, 27 inches tall.

Plantation bed:
Monumental custom-made mahogany half tester plantation bed, queen size.

BATERBYS ART AUCTION GALLERY INVITES CONSIGNORS TO TURN THEIR ART INTO QUICK CASH AT FIRST DISCOVERY CONSIGNMENT AUCTION, FEB. 19 & 26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

BATERBYS ART AUCTION GALLERY INVITES CONSIGNORS TO TURN THEIR ART INTO QUICK CASH AT FIRST DISCOVERY CONSIGNMENT AUCTION, FEB. 19 & 26

(ORLANDO, Fla.) – Owners of original and reproduction works of art are being invited to “Turn Your Art Into Quick Cash” by Baterbys Art Auction Gallery for its first-ever Discovery Consignment Auction, slated for Feb. 19 at their Palm Beach County Gallery (13900 South Jog Road in Delray Beach) and Feb. 26 at the Orlando Gallery (9101 International Drive in Orlando).

“This is a wonderful opportunity for people to consign their artwork to an award-winning gallery and auction house that’s known and respected throughout central and south Florida,” said Richard Hart of Baterbys Art Auction Gallery, based in Orlando. “All artworks will be heavily marketed and featured in a gorgeous full-color catalog. Plus it will be a fun and exciting event.”

Many beautiful and highly collectible works have already been consigned for the sale (officially called the 2011 Winter Auction). Chief among these are an original oil on canvas portrait rendering of boxing legend Joe Louis by the iconic pop culture artist LeRoy Neiman (circa 1960, est. $100,000); and several original works by Florida’s legendary Highwaymen.

The Highwaymen were a loosely associated group of young African-American artists who eked out a meager living mainly in the Fort Pierce area of Florida, from the 1950s to the 1970s. They were so-named because they would sell their wonderful landscapes – often still wet – on the side of the highway, or out of the trunk of a car. Today, their works are in high demand. The Baterbys auction will feature works by the Highwaymen Harold Newton, Alfred Hair and James Gibson. Newton and Hair were probably the very first Highwaymen. Both men were taken under the wing of an established white painter named Albert “Beanie” Backus, in 1954. Backus encouraged first Newton, and later Hair, to paint sweeping Florida landscapes.

Fans of Baterbys Art Auction Gallery will recognize some of the other artists’ names that will be represented in the sale. Many have been featured before and are back by popular demand. They include Marc Chagall, Isaac Maimon, Elena Bond, Michel Rozenvain and Fernando de Jesus (who goes by the simple moniker “Ferjo”). Following are brief profiles of these artists.

• Marc Chagall is driven by passion. His colorful compositions are celebrations of life. His 9 ½ inch by 13 inch color lithograph on paper titled The Red Angel will be sold. It depicts a vivacious circus scene where figures dance and celebrate life in harmony.

• Isaac Maimon is known for his portrayals of Parisian café society that romanticize leisure and decadence. His serigraph on paper titled Cabaret (circa 1993) will be for sale. It depicts characters living in luxury, reveling in a fanciful and indulgent life.

• Elena Bond experiments with different media, techniques and subjects to create compositions infused with a passion for expression. Her painting Artist’s Café gives bidders a rare chance to own an artwork by someone on the brink of superstardom.

• Michael Rozenvain, on the other hand, is already famous worldwide. His Russian background lends a certain nostalgic feel to his Mediterranean and French scenes. One such work, titled Artistic Plaza, a 17 inch by 12 inch serigraph, will be offered.

• Fernando de Jesus Oliveira, who signs his work as “Ferjo,” is a dynamic, intriguing artist. His piece titled Chagall’s Recital, is a surreal and metaphysical homage to the artists Marc Chagall and Joan Miro. The limited edition giclee on canvas will be sold.

There will be no buyer's premium in the auction. Bidding for some artworks will start at under $100, and some pieces will carry no reserves (minimums) at all. A portion of the proceeds will go to benefit UCP of Central Florida, an organization that serves children with disabilities and developmental delays in the Orlando area. To learn more, please click on www.ucpcfl.org.

Attendees at both auctions will have the opportunity to win free works of art and other giveaways, in spontaneous raffles held throughout the day. Also, everyone will receive a free print, valued at $100, just for attending. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres will be provided by Cuba Libre Restaurant of Orlando. This will let bidders browse the gallery in a festive atmosphere.

The auctions will begin promptly at 5 p.m. (EST) at both venues, with previews from 4-5 p.m. Online bidding will be facilitated by LiveAuctioneers.com and iCollector.com. Phone and absentee bids will also be accepted.

Baterbys offers its clients something unique in the industry: a lifetime money-back guarantee of authenticity for each work of art it sells, and a lifetime exchange policy for each work of art it sells. This is important to art collectors, since provenance is everything. Baterbys believes that gaining a buyer’s trust is key to ensuring that they will become repeat customers.

In July, Baterbys was named 2010 Best of Show for Advertising and Public Relations by the National Auctioneers Association, chosen out of a field of more than 1,000 entrants. Baterbys was also recognized in the sub-categories of Catalogs and Postcards (Collectibles/Specialty), Business Promotion (for Business Newsletter) and Broadcast/Audiovisual (for AV/DVD).

For more information on Baterbys and the company’s upcoming 2011 Winter Auctions, please log on to www.baterbys.com. To consign a single piece of art, an estate or an entire collection, you may call them toll-free, at (866) 537-0265. Or, you can e-mail them, at press@baterbys.com.


LeRoy Neiman:
Oil on canvas portrait of boxing legend Joe Louis by LeRoy Neiman (est. $100,000).








Baterbys logo:
Baterbys Art Auction Gallery will hold its first-ever Discovery Consignment Auction on Feb. 19 and 26.

Rare 1882 Colt Open-Top, Ivory-Handled Revolver Arrives Fashionably Late for Don Presley’s Jan. sale

Rare 1882 Colt Open-Top, Ivory-Handled Revolver Arrives Fashionably Late for Don Presley’s Jan. sale

A collection of exceptional antique firearms and edged weapons are featured in the January 1 & 2 auction.

ORANGE, Calif. – A late, and most welcome, consignment to Don Presley’s Jan. 1-2 auction is expected to capture the attention of collectors who favor exceptional antique firearms and edged weapons.

“This is a sensational collection,” said auctioneer Don Presley. “It came in late, but there’s no way we would have said no to these items. I think we’re going to see some heavy competition when they come up for bid.”

Among the key pieces in the consignment is a Colt 1882 open-top .44 caliber revolver with engraving on the raised ivory grips attributed to Louis D. Nimschke. Only about 20 original Colts of this type are known to exist, and this one is a very impressive example, according to Presley. It is estimated at $50,000-$75,000.

Made sometime between 1810 and 1840, an especially high quality American Eagle Head Officer’s sword comes with a hand-engraved scabbard and fancy scrolling on the guard. The blue and gold gilt on the blade is 95 percent original. “It’s the find of a lifetime in this condition,” Presley said. Estimate: $5,000-$10,000.

Another fascinating item is the early dagger with gold and silver inlay, in its original scabbard. Writing appears on the handle and blade of the 15-inch-long dagger, as well as on the scabbard. Estimate: $1,000-$2,000.

The collection joins many highlights entered in Don Presley’s annual New Year’s Auction, which includes pop-culture rarities such as Frank Sinatra’s custom-made tuxedo shirt, Marilyn Monroe’s two-piece day ensemble and Michael Jackson’s gilt-bronze clock. A stellar array of antiques and fine art to be auctioned ranges from antique ivory and jade; bronzes and porcelains to Liberace’s opulent fountains and a superb oil-on-canvas genre painting attributed to Eugene Delacroix (French, 1798-1865).

All forms of bidding will be available for the auction, including live via the Internet through LiveAuctioneers.com. For additional information, call 714-633-2437 or email info@donpresleyauction.com. Visit Don Presley Auctions online at www.donpresleyauction.com.

Don Presley
Don Presley Auctions
1319 W. Katella Ave.
Orange, CA 92867
714-633-2437
Fax 714-633-2430
info@DonPresleyAuction.com
www.donpresleyauction.com

SANDY KOUFAX BROOKLYN DODGERS JERSEY GOES FOR $80,393 IN LELANDS.COM AUCTION

SANDY KOUFAX BROOKLYN DODGERS JERSEY GOES FOR $80,393 IN LELANDS.COM AUCTION

Nearly $2 Million for 933 Lots

Bohemia, NY, December 20, 2010…A rare, Sandy Koufax Brooklyn Dodgers jersey signed by the Hall of Famer—one of only two known game worns to exist—sold for $80,393 in Lelands.com’s winter auction, which closed early Saturday morning.

The jersey was part of The Sal LaRocca Collection, tens of thousands of pieces of Dodgers memorabilia, collected by the renowned Dodger collector over 65 years. So voluminous is the collection, called "hands down, the finest Brooklyn Dodgers collection in the world," by Lelands.com chairman Joshua Evans and one that “no individual sports collection rivals” by Dodgers team historian Mark Langill, that it is being offered for sale by Lelands.com in 3 or 4 different auctions.

Lelands.com’s winter auction contained 933 lots, totaling nearly $2 million. Prices and full item descriptions are available at www.lelands.com.
Another notable highlight is the sale of a 1969 Thurman Munson Game Used Rookie Glove, sold to Dr. Richard C. Angrist for $54,909. Dr. Angrist’s collection is widely considered to be one of—if the not THE—best baseball collections in the world.

As the main lender to the Yankee Hall of Fame Museum, located on the 2nd tier of the new stadium between 1st base and right field, a sizable majority of the artifacts in the Museum are on loan from the longtime collector of baseball memorabilia. The purchase of the glove—one of only two known to exist--completes a Thurman Munson display, consisting of the former Yankee captain’s game worn rookie jersey, game worn hat, and autographed game used bat, all of which are displayed in Munson’s locker, preserved by the Yankees after the catcher was killed in a plane crash in 1979.

Generating the most bids (38) was a 1913 Nap Rucker Signed Brooklyn Ball Club Contract from the Brooklyn Dodger Collection of Sal LaRocca. Final price for the framed, vintage contract, signed by Charles H. Ebbets and G. Napoleon Rucker in black ink, was $12,190. The contract called for lefty Nap Rucker, who holds the Brooklyn Dodger record for the most shutouts in the National League, among other records, to be paid $4,000 for the season. Rucker later served as mayor of Roswell, Georgia and then the city's water commissioner.

Second highest bidding action was for a collection of more than 75 “special” Minnesota Twins pennants from the Fred Budde Collection, ultimately selling for $15,264. Included were photo pennants with several 1965 World Series variations, 1985 All Star Game banner (attractive and rare), unusually shaped picture pennants such as the very rare felt banner pennants with Killebrew (MVP) and Carew (Batting Champion). Plus, picture pennants of Zoilo as MVP, and Oliva with original header card.

Despite a less-than-stellar economy, a number of auction items realized prices higher than projected. (SEE LIST BELOW)

Lelands.com, America’s first sports memorabilia auction house, has handled such landmark collections as The Mickey Mantle Auction of the Greer Johnson Collection ($1.3M), The Harry M. Stevens Auction ($1.8M), and the famed Boston Garden Auction ($2M total sales), along with individual pieces like The Babe Ruth Sale Document ($99,000), Mickey Mantle's 1960 Jersey ($111,100) and the sale of the infamous "Mookie Ball" to actor Charlie Sheen for $93,500. Over the past ten years, Lelands.com has sold over $100 million worth of vintage sports memorabilia and cards.

Joshua Leland Evans is the company’s chairman and founder; Mike Heffner is president. For more information, visit www.Lelands.com . To speak with someone directly, contact Suzan French, FlackShack, 917-284-8523, sfrench@flackshack.com

List of Notable Auction Items and Prices Realized:

BASEBALL
• Harmon Killebrew 1971 Home Uniform (All Star Game, 500th Home Run?): $39,166
• 2009 and 1999 New York Yankees World Championship Rings: $33,220 and $22,690, respectively
• 1957 Topps Complete Set - All Cards Graded NM-MT 8 by PSA (407/407): $30,940
• 1937-40 Hank Greenberg Game Used Bat: $21,925.50
• 1962 Mickey Mantle Vintage Signed Game Used Bat: $20,627
• 2005 Raul Casanova Chicago White Sox World Championship Ring and Presentation Box
• High Grade Ty Cobb Single Signed Baseball: $15,497.60
• Baseball From Mickey Mantle's Last Game: $15,497.60
• 1902-11 W600 Sporting Life Honus Wagner (Uniform) SGC Graded: $13,269.58
• 1934 Hack Wilson Signed Brooklyn Dodgers Contract: $12,533.23
• 1909-11 T206 White Border Collection of 71 (all PSA Graded): $12,376.38
• 1913 Nap Rucker Signed Brooklyn Ball Club Contract: $12,190.37
• Ebbets Field Ushers Cap: $10,426.18
• 1965 A.L. Champion Minnesota Twins Game Used Bats (29): $9,727.61
• 1975 Cesar Geronimo Cincinnati Reds World Series Trophy: $9,060.13
• 1956 Jim Gilliam Brooklyn Dodgers Game Worn Jersey: $8,843.29
• 1930 Wilbert Robinson Signed Brooklyn Dodgers Contract: $7,569.26
• 1968 Tony Oliva Road Uniform with Centennial Patch: $7,308.50
• Harvey Haddix 1960 Pittsburgh Pirates World Championship Trophy: $7,308.50
• 1932 Max Carey Single Signed Baseball: $7,121.22
• Original 1920's-30's Hillerich & Bradsby Bat Rack: $7,121.22
• Kirby Puckett 1991 World Series Champions Game Worn Uniform: $7,121.22
• Zack Wheat Game Used Bat: $6,644.09
• Ty Cobb Full Size Decal Bat: $6,644.09
• 1957 Brooklyn Dodgers Team Signed Baseball: $6,473.84
• Mike Piazza 2000 World Series Bat Used To Make The Last Out: $6,040.08
• 1961 Minnesota Twins Inaugural Season Game Used Bats (14): $5,885.32
• 1987 World Champion Minnesota Twins Game Used Bats (23): $5,169.90
• Game Winning Glove Used in Twins First Ever Win by Pedro Ramos (1961): $5,169.90
• 1923 Letter "U" From Yankee Stadium: $4,863.90
• Win Twins Banner (Only One Known): $4,739.11
• Ebbets Field Collection Box: $4,421.73
• 1986 Bert Blyleven Signed Game Used Uniform: $4,421.73
• 1977 Rod Carew Game Used Home Jersey: $4,421.73
• 2006 Mariano Rivera New York Yankees Game Worn Jersey: $4,421.73
• Zoilo Versalles 1965 Minnesota Twins MVP Game Used Jersey: $4,421.73
• 1948 Brooklyn Dodgers Stock Certificate : $4,272.65
• Barry Bonds 713 Home Run Baseball MLB: $4,226.62
• 1880's Allen & Ginter Baseball Advertising Poster: $4,125.45
• 1907 Detroit Tigers Mounted Team Photo: $3,654.32
• "Robinson Rounding Third" Original Painting by Arthur K. Miller: $3,322.11
• 1946 World Champions St. Louis Cardinals Team Signed Baseball : $3,322.11
• 1974 Topps Evel Knievel Unopened Cello Box: $2,192.54
• 2006 Albert Pujols Game Worn and Signed World Series Hat: $2,009.83
• 1968 St. Louis Cardinals Team Signed Baseball 28 Signatures with Roger Maris: $1,510.01
• Thurman Munson Presentational American League Most Valuable Player Presentational Golf Club with Diana Munson LOA: $640.39

BOXING
• 1941 Joe Louis Edward J. Neil Memorial Award $14,617.00
• Mike Tyson Fight Worn Trunks from the Bonecrusher Smith Bout: $9,727.61
• Floyd Patterson vs. Cassius Clay Fight Worn Robe : $9,416.41
• 1986 Mike Tyson Edward J. Neil Award: $9,076.01
• Fabulous Collection of Original 19th Century Boxing Illustrations (41 pieces: $7,684.76
• 1892 John L. Sullivan vs. James J. Corbett Collection (3): $7,248.11
• John L. Sullivan Bronze Statue by Waagen: $6,644.09
• Mike Tyson Fight Worn Gloves and Hand Wraps from the Tony Tubbs Bout: $6,644.09
• Jack Dempsey Plaster Fist: $4,832.10
• "James J. Corbett" Bronze Statue by Waagen: $4,019.75
• Stanley Ketchel Mounted Display Photo: $4,019.75
• Jack Johnson Signed Book to Nat Fleischer: $3,630.43
• Hart-Root Full Ticket: $3,409.47
• Cassius Clay Post Training Gloves: $3,403.53
• James Braddock Used Gloves Presented to J. Edgar Hoover: $2,886.83
• Circa 1900 Terry McCovern Boxing Poster: $2,269.04

FOOTBALL
• 1958 Baltimore Colts World Champions Team Signed Football From Championship Game: $1,924.56
• 1926 Rose Bowl Unused Ticket: $5,169.90

HOCKEY
• 2002 Steve Yzerman Team Canada Game Worn Photo-Matched Olympics Jersey : $4,991.80
• 1987-88 Paul Coffey Pittsburgh Penguins Game Worn Photo-Matched Jersey: $3,654.32
• 1973-74 Jim Johnson Minnesota Fighting Saints Game Worn Jersey: $2,745.55
• Terry Sawchuk Game Used Stick : $2,495.95
• 1997-98 Al McInnis St. Louis Blues Game Worn Jersey: $2,210.82
• Eddie Giacomin Game Used Stick: $1,812.01

BASKETBALL
• Circa 1959-60 Jack Twyman Game Worn All Star Uniform: $30,995.23
• 1964 Award Presented To Jim Loscutoff For Winning Seven NBA Championships: $18,956.38
• 1951 and 1952 NBA All Star Game Programs at Boston Garden: $8,326.19
• Circa 1964 Jim Loscutoff Boston Celtics Warm-Up Jacket : $7,833.34

PHOTOGRAPHY
• Superb Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Jimmie Foxx Photograph: $5,686.90
• Edward S. Curtis Photograph: $3,020.10
• 1963 Ruby Shoots Oswald: $1,510.01

ROCK N ROLL
• The Beatles Signed Parlophone Promotional Framed Photo Card: $9,076.01
• Stevie Nicks Custom Made Gown & Gloves: $2817.75
• Ultimate Led Zeppelin Psychedelic Poster: $1,237.63

AMERICANA
• 1910s Buster Brown Factory Cast Iron Factory Plaque in Original Paint: $4,125.45
• Mickey Mouse Phonograph: $3,099.52

WOODY AUCTION WILL RING IN NEW YEAR WITH A JAN. 22 MULTI-ESTATE SALE FEATURING R.S. PRUSSIA, LOWELL DAVIS FIGURINES, GOLD AND SILVER COINS

FOR IMMKEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Jason Woody
(316) 747-2694
info@woodyauction.com

WOODY AUCTION WILL RING IN NEW YEAR WITH A JAN. 22 MULTI-ESTATE SALE FEATURING R.S. PRUSSIA, LOWELL DAVIS FIGURINES, GOLD AND SILVER COINS

The absolute auction (everything sells, regardless of price) will be conducted in Wichita, Kan.

(WICHITA, Kan.) – Woody Auction will ring in 2011 with a blockbusting multi-estate sale on Saturday, Jan. 22. It will be an absolute auction (everything sells regardless of price) held in the 4H Hall of the Sedgwick County Extension Center in Wichita. Sold will be gold and silver coins, Lowell Davis figurines, R.S. Prussia and more. The auction will begin at 9:30 a.m. (CST).

Headlining the event will be the estates of Gloria Gugel of Kansas (who collected items in all the categories listed above) and Russell Cunningham of Nebraska, who specialized in rare and collectible R.S. Prussia pieces. Other merchandise will also be sold. The Sedgwick County Extension Center is located at 7001 West 21st Street, at the corner of 21st Street and Ridge Road.

Gold and silver coins are expected to generate tremendous bidder interest, as the values of these metals continue to climb in a fragile and volatile economy. An example lot is a 2003 proof gold coin called Natura the Lion, one of only 200 minted from the Lion Park series. The coin is one ounce of .999 percent pure solid gold and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

Other gold coins will include a proof 2001 2-oz. Gold Kangaroo coin, consisting of 62.265 grams of .999 percent pure gold, one of a limited release of 300 minted, featuring Queen Elizabeth on the obverse and kangaroos on the reverse; and a 3-oz. gold coin tribute to the Lewis & Clark expedition, the world’s first 3-oz. .999 percent proof gold coin, one of only 300 minted.

Silver coins will include a proof 2-kilo Moby Dick silver coin minted in 2001 and with a $500 face value, .999 percent fine silver and with an effigy of Queen Elizabeth on the obverse and Moby Dick on the reverse, one of just 600 made; and a set of six uncirculated Carson City Morgan silver dollars (dated 1880-1885), graded MS-65 and with a certificate of authenticity.

Lowell Davis (sometimes referred to as “the Norman Rockwell of rural art”) lives on a farm in southwestern Missouri. His creations – centering on farm life and farm animals – include paintings and prints, figurines, bronzes and storybooks. His art appeals to collectors because it recalls a simpler, slower time. Also, his sense of humor shows through in his porcelain figurines.

Mr. Davis made his creations never thinking they would garner broad mass appeal, but he was wrong. Today, Lowell Davis figurines are highly prized among collectors. Two limited edition figural groups in the Woody Auction sale are titled Christmas at Red Oak and From a Friend to a Friend. The latter group is large. Other works by Mr. Davis will also cross the block.

Reinhold Schlegelmilch produced R.S. Prussia porcelain at his factory in Suhl, Germany, from the late 1800s through the beginning of World War I. Pieces bearing an “R.S. Prussia” mark in red lettering, surrounded by a green wreath, were made at the turn of the last century. This “red mark” is the most popular and recognized by collectors of R.S. Prussia porcelain.

Many wonderful pieces of R.S. Prussia – from the lifetime collections of both Gloria Gugel and Russell Cunningham – will be sold Jan. 22. Examples include a rare 14-inch Mold 556 tankard, satin with a fall season portrait décor and in outstanding condition; and a 15-inch Carnation Mold centerpiece bowl, cobalt blue with floral décor and great gold stencil highlights.

Other R.S. Prussia pieces include a hard to find 8 ¾ inch plate with brown tones and ostrich scenic décor; a high-quality 9 ¼-inch tankard with peach and yellow coloring with fall season portrait décor; and a Carnation Mold serving set comprising a chocolate pot, creamer and sugar, four cups and six saucers, unmarked, in an outstanding cobalt blue with gold highlights.

Still more R.S. Prussia will include an 11 ¾-inch two-handled vase with iridescent bronze Tiffany background, gold highlights and fall season décor; an 11 ½-inch Mold 342 two-handled cake plate in cream with lavender tones, a gold tapestry center and fruit and wine glass décor; and a 10 ½-inch unique mold bowl with a pink poppy décor and cobalt blue tulip highlights.

Online bidding will be facilitated by Proxibid.com. Absentee bids will be accepted no later than Thursday, Jan. 20, with a written statement indicating the amount of the bid (bids may be fax’d, to 316-747-2145). A sales tax of 7.3 percent will be collected on all purchases (current sales tax numbers exempt). The preferred area lodging is Hawthorne Suites (ph: 316-729-5700).

Woody Auction is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item, an estate or a collection, you may call them at (316) 747-2694. Or, you can e-mail them at info@woodyauction.com. To learn more about Woody Auction and the upcoming calendar of events, to include the Jan. 22 auction in Wichita, Kan., please log on to www.woodyauction.com.


Natura the Lion:
Proof 2003 Natura the Lion coin, 1 ounce of .999 percent pure gold, from the Lion Park series.

Lewis & Clark:
Tribute coin to Lewis & Clark, the world's first 3-ounce gold proof coin, .999 percent pure gold.

RSP tankard:
Rare 14-inch R.S. Prussia Mold 556 tankard with fall coloring and a fall season portrait décor.







Lowell Davis:
Large Lowell Davis figural group titled From a Friend to a Friend, from a limited-edition series.

Royal Vienna:
Pair of 9-inch Royal Vienna tulip mold two-handled vases, green and white with portrait decors.

Elizabeth II:
Proof 1997 Walking Liberty privy mark coin showing Elizabeth II, .999 percent pure silver.

ORIGINAL UMC LITHOGRAPH BULLET BOARD FEATURING BATTLESHIP SCENE AND OVER 170 ATTACHED CARTRIDGES GAVELS FOR $2,938 AT SOLDUSA.COM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: David Reichle
(704) 815-1500
support@SoldUSA.com

ORIGINAL UMC LITHOGRAPH BULLET BOARD FEATURING BATTLESHIP SCENE AND OVER 170 ATTACHED CARTRIDGES GAVELS FOR $2,938 AT SOLDUSA.COM

(MATTHEWS, N.C.) – An original United Metal Cartridges reprint lithograph bullet board showing ships and a battleship scene, and with over 170 attached cartridges, sold for $2,938 in an Internet and catalog auction that ended Nov. 20 by SoldUSA.com. Around 2,000 lots of militaria, guns, ammo and hunting and fishing collectibles changed hands in the sale.

The bullet board measured 32 inches by 47 inches. The original, all-correct cartridges were attached with nylon fishing line over the litho images of each shell. Most of the shells were loaded and were not factory. Included was an empty co-powder Gatling round and a primed empty No. 2 shotshell. The board shells were all clean and bright, and only one was missing.

“The market for items in this field is growing in many areas, with an increased number of advertising, ammunition and firearms consignments,” said David Reichle of SoldUSA.com. “We’ve seen a vast increase in the amount of military collectibles, nearly double that of past auctions, and we see a trend for increased growth, especially with the rare and unique items.”

One such item from the auction just ended was a rare and beautiful Imperial German 6-place medal bar set, made around 1880, with all high-grade Imperial medals. These included the Hossaur Red Eagle Order Second Class, the Kingdom of Prussia Order of the Crown, a 20-year Service Medal, a Saxon Albert Order and the Order of Philip. The set hit a respectable $2,910.

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

A finely made Martini lever-action single-shot rifle, sporting a 27 ½ inch barrel with an absolutely pristine .45 caliber bore chambered for the 45-70 round, hit the mark for $1,525. The barrel had no markings at all and retained most of its dull blue finish. The dark walnut butt stock was structurally sound and the checkering still sharp. The weapon worked fine in dry operation.

A seldom offered original Peters Referee salesman’s sample 2-piece box hammered for $1,509. The box came with five purple-paper unfired 12-gage shotshells. Each shot was bulged on the end from expanding lead shot. The box boasted all tight corners and edges, with a full label picturing the Peters Referee box and the word “SAMPLES” in bold lettering at the top.

A large, rare Mobil Pegasus outdoor metal sign, measuring 5 feet 9 inches by 7 feet 8 inches, went to a determined bidder for $1,188. The four-piece enameled sign featured mounting brackets on the reverse for wall mounting, and the removable legs were bolted to the body. The sign had been outside, so it showed some rust spots and wear, but its rarity still made it desirable.

SoldUSA.com’s next sale is already online and is slated to end Jan. 22, 2011. It features the standard fare – firearms, ammunition, militaria, advertising and hunting and fishing collectibles – plus a nice selection of rare Buffalo Bill memorabilia. Consignments are still being accepted. To consign an item or collection, call (704) 815-1500 or e-mail support@soldusa.com.

Following are just a few of the expected top lots from the sale currently underway. To view all items, or to submit a bid, log on to www.SoldUSA.com.
A pair of wonderful and highly sought-after Winchester posters are up for bid. One was painted circa 1910 by Philip R. Goodwin and lithographed circa 1908. The other one was painted circa 1910 by an unknown artist and lithographed circa 1905. Both were done specifically for Winchester, both measure around 15 inches by 28 inches and both have top and bottom bands.

An original Remington poster depicting a man hunting in the field with quail flying into the sunset is generating strong bidder interest. The piece, with striking and vivid colors, is 18 inches by 26 inches. It has had no restoration work done and has correct top and bottom bands. There is some light wrinkling and very minor edge wear, but overall the poster is immaculate.

A companion piece to the Winchester “20 Gage Shotguns” poster with a short-hair feather-tailed pointer in the foreground should bring high dollars. The piece, measuring 16 ¼ inches by 30 ¼ inches, was produced circa 1906-1907. The edges show some light tube wear to both sides, with some very light soiling overall. The poster has had no restoration work at all.

To learn more about SoldUSA.com and the auction slated to end Jan. 22, please log on to www.SoldUSA.com. The firm is always looking for quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single item or an entire collection, you may call them at (704) 815-1500, or you can e-mail them at support@SoldUSA.com. For more information, log on to www.SoldUSA.com.

Post-sale:

UMC bullet board:
This original reprint UMC litho bullet board with over 170 attached cartridges sold for $2,600.

German medals:
This rare and beautiful Imperial German 6-place medal bar set, circa 1880, climbed to $2,575.

Peters sample:
This Peters Referee salesman's sample 2-piece box with five 12-gage shotgun shells hit $1,335.

Pre-Sale:

Remington poster:
This very clean, original and colorful Remington poster of a hunting scene will be sold Jan. 22.

Winchester 1:
This desirable Winchester poster painted circa 1910 by Philip R. Goodwin will be sold Jan. 22.

Winchester 2:
This Winchester poster, a companion to the “20 Gage Shotguns” poster, will be sold Jan. 22.

TREASURES FROM NEW YORK’S MADISON GALLERIES TO CROSS THE BLOCK IN WEST PALM BEACH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 18, 2010


CONTACT: BRIAN KOGAN
(561) 805-7115


AUCTION GALLERY OF THE PALM BEACHES
Sale January 10,11, 2011
West Palm Beach, FL


Auction Gallery of the Palm Beaches will offer the personal property of the Rubenstein’s, owners of the Madison Galleries.




(West Palm Beach, FL) Auction Gallery of the Palm Beaches will conduct a single owner, two session auction on January 10th and 11th, 2011 offering the personal property of Mrs. Florence Rubinstein and the late Mr. Irving Rubinstein. The Rubinstein’s were the owners of the renowned Madison Galleries in New York City before retiring to Delray Beach. The auction will feature over 600 lots of antiques, fine art, and objects d’art that were previously in their home at 20 Sutton Place South in Manhattan.


This collection was amassed over seventy years of dealing and collecting by the Rubinstein’s. Their eye for antiques is clearly evident in the fine selection of items offered. Each object has a quality in execution and detail that is a testament to the Rubinstein’s’ discerning taste.


Some of the highlights are a group of Russian bronzes including a very large group by Lanceray, a collection of Russian enamels, over 75 lots of silver, a collection of very fine Japanese and Chinese ivories and bronzes, 19th century figural bronze and Baccarat crystal vases, a Satsuma collection, a fine collection of 17 Pietra Dura plaques, three paintings by Johann Berthelsen (1873-1972 American), a 19th century Pietra Dura inlaid cabinet on stand, a collection of fine English porcelain service plates, a fabulously large Meissen dog, 273 piecss of Tiffany sterling flatware set in the “Castilian” pattern and an amazing Tiffany glass vase 14” high, pair of Royal Sevres vases, 18th and 19th century Chinese porcelain and jade objects including an impressive 18th century covered vase, coral carvings, a collection of European bronzes, European paintings and much more.


This auction will be an excellent opportunity for collectors and dealers to bid on an array of fine quality antiques and art that are fresh to the market, after seventy years of collecting.


Madison Galleries was founded by Florence’s father Mr. Abe Ash in the 1930’s and its first location was on Madison Avenue in mid-town. As the gallery became more successful in the 1950‘s, Ash branched out and opened two locations in Atlantic City and expanded the Manhattan gallery to 45th and 5th Avenue. As Madison Galleries continued to grow with new connections in Europe, the gallery became too small and re-located to 56th Street and 2nd Avenue.


By the time Irving and Florence Rubinstein took over the running of Madison Galleries from Abe Ash, Madison Galleries had become recognized as one of the major retailers in the antique industry. Their business was expanding and their reputation as a leading supplier of antiques to the retail and antique auction trade was flourishing. Madison Galleries became a recognized destination for collectors, designers, and decorators. In the 1980’s, the gallery re-located to 840 Broadway and operated there until 1995 when the Rubinstein’s retired to South Florida. Mr. Rubinstein passed away in 2004 and Mrs. Rubinstein now in her 90’s has chosen to auction her extensive collection with Auction Gallery of the Palm Beaches Inc.


For more information, condition reports, and images of this outstanding collection please see our website at www.AGOPB.com or call 561-805-7115 and ask for Mr. Leslie Baker or Mr. Brian Kogan. Preview will begin on-line on December 18th and in our gallery starting on January 6th. The Gallery is located at 1609 South Dixie Hwy, Suite 5, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401. Absentee, phone Bids, and internet bidding is available on LiveAuctioneers.com.






Captions for Auction Gallery of the Palm Beaches January 10, 11, 2011 auction


Evgeni Lanceray “The Capture” Bronze Group, F. Chopin Mark, 16 ¾” h. , 25 1/8” L

Russian Silver Gilt & Enamel Pedestal Bowl by Kuzmichev, 1899, 5 ¾” h., 9 7/8” L

English Silver Monteith Bowl, London 1891, (75 oz.), 8 ¾” h., 12 ½” dia

French 19th C. Gilt Bronze & Cut Glass Vase, 29 7/8” h




Massive Chinese 18th C. Famille Rose Vase & Cover, 32” h

Northern Italian 19th C. Pietra Dura & Gilt Bronze Cabinet on Stand

PAIR OF CARVED ALABASTER MARBLE SCULPTURES OF CLEOPATRA AND JUDITH BRINGS $132,250 AT AUCTION HELD NOV. 13 BY FONTAINE’S AUCTION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Bob Burke or John Fontaine
(413) 448-8922
bburke@fontaineauction.com or info@fontaineauction.com

PAIR OF CARVED ALABASTER MARBLE SCULPTURES OF CLEOPATRA AND JUDITH BRINGS $132,250 AT AUCTION HELD NOV. 13 BY FONTAINE’S AUCTION

(PITTSFIELD, Mass.) – A pair of carved, early Continental alabaster and marble statues of Cleopatra and Judith, each standing 23 inches tall and having exceptional detail, sold for $132,250 at a cataloged antique auction held Nov. 13 by Fontaine’s Auction Gallery. The statues were the top earner of the more than 500 lots sold. Overall, the sale grossed about $1.4 million.

Around 300 people packed the Fontaine’s Auction Gallery showroom, located at 1485 West Housatonic Street in Pittsfield, for the standing room only event. In addition, there were about 800 Internet bidders who participated online via LiveAuctioneers.com and the Fontaine’s website (at www.fontainesauction.net). Phone and absentee bidding was also brisk all day long.

“It’s kind of refreshing that the market seems to be picking up,” said John Fontaine of Fontaine’s Auction Gallery, acknowledging that the antique business in general has ebbed and flowed over the last couple of years, ever since the financial crisis wreaked havoc on the economy. “Activity in all areas of our auction business has increased. People are bidding more freely and enthusiastically.”
Following are additional highlights from the auction. All prices quoted include a 15 percent buyer’s premium.

The sale’s top lot may have been statuary artwork, but vintage lamps and antique clocks dominated the list of top earners. A Tiffany 10-light Tulip lamp with pulled feather tulip shades on a signed Tiffany base, 21 inches tall, went for $40,250, while an E. Howard #71 regulator wall clock from the 1880s, 70 inches tall, black walnut with ebony trim case, garnered $25,875.

Keeping with lamps, a 16-inch Tiffany Studios Poinsettia shade with red flowers with blue, gold and green centers fetched $25,875; an 18-inch Handel Riverbed scenic lamp (#6752), artist signed “HB” (Henry Bedigie), and in excellent condition soared to $24,150; and a 16-inch signed Tiffany Studios Pomegranate table lamp with dichroic and mottled shade rose to $12,650.

Rounding out the category: a Handel Floral & Butterfly lamp (#6688), with an 18-inch reverse painted shade showing apple blossoms and butterflies brought $11,500; an Anton Chotka Austrian cold painted bronze lamp titled “The Jewelry Merchant,” 15 ½ inches tall, hit $9,775; and a Duffner &Kimberly leaded table lamp with 21-inch fern pattern shade commanded $8,050.

Returning to vintage clocks, a James Condliff astronomical clock with 12-inch silvered dial, inscribed on the movement dust cover (“Ino B. McFadden A.D. 1832”) coasted to $19,550 to a bidder from England, where the clock was originally made; a circa 1905 Waltham #14 ball regulator with quartered oak case, 74 inches tall, rose to $14,950; and a three-piece French figural gilt bronze owl clock set with 3-branch candelabra brought $10,350.

Other clocks that did well included an Elliott grandfather clock with great proportions and detailed carvings, and signed 9-tube movement ($10,350); a J. L. Ruetter perpetual Atmos desk clock featuring a nice chrome base with beveled glass ($6,325); and a Guilmet French industrial balance beam engine clock with painted silver and gilt brass base ($4,600).

Fine art included an oil on canvas portrait of a harlequin (jester) by Emilio Pettoruti (Argentine, 1892-1971), 22 inches by 28 inches ($8,625); a hand-painted 10-inch Royal Vienna 10-inch portrait plate after Bluthen, artist signed and in excellent condition ($3,737); and a pair of 19th century carved marble angels, both shown kneeling and with long flowing robes ($7,475).

Dazzling pieces of estate jewelry were also offered. A lady’s 14kt white gold platinum and diamond pendant with a main round brilliant cut diamond weighing 1.87 carats with VS-1 clarity garnered $13,800; and a lady’s 14kt yellow gold handmade custom ring containing 16 square cut genuine rubies totaling 2.40 carats, with 17 round brilliant cut diamonds, hit $4,025.

Sterling silver pieces really got paddles wagging. Star lots included a figural repousse tankard by Emile Puiforcat of Paris, with a scene showing maidens dancing and playing music in a vineyard, 102.5 troy ounces ($6,612); and a circa 1910 Russian silver figural rhinoceros with diamond eyes by Julius Rappaport, a noted Faberge workmaster, weighing 6.56 ounces ($4,312).

Decorative accessories featured an exceptional American rosewood rococo chevelle dressing mirror with grape carved crest and elaborate legs with carved stretcher ($5,750); a Raoul Larche gilded bronze inkwell depicting a figural nude woman on a rock ($5,750); and a nice tri-form Daum Nancy cameo cut Dragonfly tray with green and yellow water lilies ($4,140).

Rounding out the day’s top lots: a fully restored 1894 popcorn and peanut wagon made by C. Cretors & Co. (Chicago) changed hands for $14,950; a matching set of 12 chairs from the Renaissance Revival period, including two armchairs, breezed to $7,762; and a set of six figural Stag Russian silver shot glasses, each one three inches high and marked “KL,” fetched $4,312.

Fontaine’s Auction Gallery will kick off 2011 with three sales that will carry the firm through the springtime. On Jan. 15 and Feb. 19, auctions will be held featuring over 500 lots of antique furniture, lighting and accessories. Then, in April, the firm will hold an Exceptional Cataloged Antique Auction. All sales will be held in the Fontaine’s showroom.

Fontaine’s Auction Gallery is actively seeking quality consignments for future sales. The firm also buys antiques and entire estates outright. For more information, or to consign an item, estate or collection, you may call (413) 448-8922 and ask to speak to John Fontaine. Or, you can e-mail him at info@fontaineauction.com. For more info, log on to www.fontainesauction.net.


Marble statues:
Pair of carved early Continental alabaster and marble statues of Cleopatra and Judith ($132,250).

Tiffany Tulip:
Tiffany 10-light Tulip lamp with pulled feather tulip shades on a signed Tiffany base ($40,250).







E. Howard regulator:
E. Howard #71 regulator wall clock, circa 1880s, 70 inches tall, black walnut case ($25,875).

Harlequin painting:
Oil on canvas portrait of a harlequin (jester) by Argentine painter Emilio Pettoruti ($8,625).

Diamond pendant:
Lady's 14kt white gold platinum and diamond pendant, diamond weighing 1.87 cts. ($13,800).

Popcorn wagon:
Fully restored 1894 popcorn and peanut wagon made by C. Cretors & Co. of Chicago ($14,950).

HUNDREDS OF FRESH TO THE MARKET LOTS IN A NUMBER OF CATEGORIES WILL BE AUCTIONED JAN. 21-23 AT PHILIP WEISS AUCTIONS IN OCEANSIDE, NEW YORK

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Philip Weiss
(516) 594-0731
Auction22@aol.com, phil@prwauctions.com

HUNDREDS OF FRESH TO THE MARKET LOTS IN A NUMBER OF CATEGORIES WILL BE AUCTIONED JAN. 21-23 AT PHILIP WEISS AUCTIONS IN OCEANSIDE, NEW YORK

(OCEANSIDE, N.Y.) – Hundreds of mostly fresh-to-the-market lots in a number of categories will change hands at a weekend multi-estate sale Jan. 21-23 by Philip Weiss Auctions. The sale will be held in the Philip Weiss Auctions showroom, at #1 Neil Court in Oceanside. Online bidding will be facilitated by Proxibid.com. Phone and left bids will also be accepted.

“As 2010 draws to a close, we are busy preparing for our 2011 auction season,” said Philip Weiss of Philip Weiss Auctions. “Despite a down economy, 2010 was one of our busiest years ever. We have some incredible merchandise not just in the January auction, but for other sales planned. But we still need more great items and collections to keep our buyers happy.”

The action will kick off Friday afternoon, Jan. 21, at 4 p.m., with a session dedicated mainly to antique advertising, coin-operated machines, signs, a collection of shoe-related trade cards, catalogs and more. The Jan. 22 session will feature Hollywood memorabilia, rock ‘n’ roll items and more. Jan. 23 will showcase important paintings, period furniture, Hummels and more.

The Jan. 22 session is noteworthy because it will include Part 3 of The Lester Glassner Collection of Hollywood memorabilia with additions, featuring movie posters and stills; a collection of movie posters and lobby cards, with many horror and science fiction examples; and the original 2-piece costume worn by Bob Keeshan for the iconic kids' show Captain Kangaroo.

The movie posters will include insert posters for Son of Dracula (Realart, 1943) and The Return of the Vampire (Columbia, 1943). Lobby cards will feature The Wolf Man (Realart, 1948), Superman and the Mole Men (Lippert, 1951), and The Thing from Another World (RKO, 1951). One-sheet posters will include a rare example of Seven Footprints to Satan (First National Pictures, 1929), plus G-Men vs. the Black Dragon (Republic, 1943), The Invisible Man (Realart, 1951), Terror from the Year 5,000 (American International, 1958), and additional movie posters.

The fine art, scheduled to cross the block Sunday, Jan. 23, will include the following:

• An original pen and wash drawing titled By the Water by Francesco Lazzaro Guardi (Italian, 1712-1793), faintly signed lower right. Guardi was renowned for his 18th century architectural renderings, cityscapes, religious paintings and other works.

• An oil on board painting by Jean Dufy (French, 1888-1964), titled Circus Scene, signed lower right. Dufy was successful in several media. He painted city scenes and museums, but he was also accomplished in porcelain decoration and theater sets.

• An oil on canvas painting by Boris Israelevich Anisfeld (Russian, 1879-1973), titled Horses of St. Mark, signed and dated (1914). Anisfeld was a sculptor, lithographer, painter, illustrator, set designer and long-time teacher at the Art Institute of Chicago.

• A signed, numbered woodcut by Maurits Cornelius Escher (Dutch, 1898-1972), titled Day and Night, and a signed and numbered lithograph on woven paper titled Boven en Onder. Escher was known for his graphic art and earned high acclaim for his so-called “impossible structures.” He also did realistic style work while living in Italy.

• An original illustration of two angels by pop art icon Andy Warhol. Warhol was born in Pittsburgh, Pa. He was an illustrator in New York City until 1960, when he began producing stylized pop culture renderings. Works by Warhol are highly collectible.

Also set to come under the gavel will be a Louis C. Tiffany Favrile bud vase (inscribed, 620S5E) and a Tiffany Favrile pastel vase (inscribed, 1885). Gorgeous estate jewelry will also be offered. Previews will be held on the days leading up to, and including, the Jan. 21-23 auction dates. Photos of many of the lots are posted on prwauctions.com and Proxibid.com/prwauctions.

Philip Weiss Auctions is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item, an estate or a collection, you may call them at (516) 594-0731, or e-mail them at phil@prwauctions.com. To learn more about Philip Weiss Auctions and the firm’s calendar of upcoming auctions, to include the Jan. 21-23 weekend event, log on to www.prwauctions.com.



Captain Kangaroo:
Original two-piece costume worn by Bob Keeshan for the iconic kids' show Captain Kangaroo.








Movie poster:
Movie insert poster for the famous horror movie Son of Dracula, published by Realart in 1943.

Tiffany bud vase:
A Louis C. Tiffany Favrile bud vase (shown) and a Tiffany Favrile pastel vase will both be sold.







Francesco Guardi:
Original pen and wash drawing by Francesco Guardi (Italian, 1712-1793), titled By the Water.

Jean Dufy:
Original oil on board painting by Jean Dufy (Franch, 1888-1964), titled Circus Scene, signed.

Boris Anisfeld:
Original oil on canvas by Boris Anisfeld (Russian, 1879-1973), titled Horses of St. Mark (1914).

BEAUTIFUL CHINESE PAGODA FORM WOOD AND IVORY DISPLAY CABINET HITS $34,500 AT AUCTION HELD BY LELAND LITTLE AUCTION & ESTATE SALES, LTD.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Leland Little
(919) 644-1243
Leland@llauctions.com

BEAUTIFUL CHINESE PAGODA FORM WOOD AND IVORY DISPLAY CABINET HITS $34,500 AT AUCTION HELD BY LELAND LITTLE AUCTION & ESTATE SALES, LTD.
The two-session weekend multi-estate sale was conducted December 3-4 in Hillsborough, N.C.

(HILLSBOROUGH, N.C.) – A gorgeous 19th century Chinese pagoda form wood and ivory display cabinet in overall good condition breezed to $34,500 at a two-session weekend cataloged auction held Dec. 3-4 by Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, Ltd. The auction was held in the firm’s new, state-of-the-art gallery located at 620 Cornerstone Court in Hillsborough.

The cabinet was the highest price realized of the 650 items sold. Online bidding was made possible by LiveAuctioneers.com, Phone and absentee bidding was brisk both days as well. The auction grossed $925,000, the second-highest ever posted by the firm.“It was strong confirmation that our final cataloged sale of 2010 was such a success, a real statement to our dedicated team and quality consignments,” said Leland Little of Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, Ltd.
The firm’s next big cataloged auction is slated for March 18-19, 2011. Following are additional highlights from the Dec. 3-4 auction. All prices quoted include a 15 percent buyer’s premium.

The entire first session, on Dec. 3, was dedicated to fine wine, a category the firm has nurtured along in recent sales. Top lots included a pair of cases (12 bottles each) of 1982 Chateau Haut-Brion, a fine French wine. Each case sold for $7,820. Also, two lots of three bottles each of Chateau Lafite Rothschild (French, 2000), with the original tissue, hammered for $6,440 per lot.

Asian arts seemed to dominate the Dec. 4 session. Top achievers included a monumental late 19th century Chinese tester bed, 99 inches tall, made from mahogany with bone and lighter wood inlays throughout ($29,900); and a 19th century Chinese porcelain jardinière (or goldfish bowl), with interior decoration simulating an underwater landscape of fish and plants ($26,450).

Other Asian objects included a beautiful Chinese Export orange Fitzhugh pattern platter, made for the American market and showing an eagle with spread wings ($10,350); a Southeast Asian standing Buddha, circa late 18th century, bronze and gilt bronze on a circular lotus base ($4,600); and a large Japanese cloisonné floor vase with flaring mouth and decorations ($3,680).

Continental artwork did exceptionally well. An oil on canvas by Abraham Bisschop (1660-1731), titled Birds in a Landscape, signed and dated (1695) realized $27,600; a signed oil on canvas by Albert Dawant (Fr., 1852-1923), titled Eve of Austerlitz, rose to $16,675; and an oil on Masonite work by Rafael Durancamps (Sp., 1891-1978), titled Shoreline, garnered $4,600.

American art did well, too. A woodcut by Anna Heyward Taylor (S.C., 1879-1956), depicting vendors at the Old City Market in Charleston, signed and numbered (23) hit $4,600; an oil on board by Adele Williams (Va., 1868-1952), titled Market Scene, signed, rose to $3,450; and an oil on canvas by David B. Walkley (Oh/Ct, 1849-1934), titled Boat House, made $3,220.

Southern American furniture was a big crowd-pleaser. A fine late 18th century Eastern North Carolina center table, walnut with cedar secondary, topped out at $10,063; a circa 1800 Southern cellaret on frame, walnut with yellow pine secondary, rectangular form, made $8,625; and a North Carolina leather key basket with tooled line decoration changed hands for $4,600.

Tops in the Continental and English furniture category were an important 18th century English Sheraton Pembroke table, satinwood veneer with oak secondary, coasted to $6,325; a finely crafted and visually stunning Louis XV-style bureau plat with a tooled black leather top went for $4,600; and an Italian gilded rococo-style console table with marble top brought $3,910.

Mid-century furniture featured a cabinet custom-designed by Tommi Parzinger in the early 1970s and consisting of a four-door front with central inset mirror ($3,910); a circa 1950 solid walnut sideboard attributed to Peter Hvidt and produced by John Stewart ($2,185); and an Eames-style modern reclining lounge chair with cream leather upholstery and chrome ($1,495).

Fine estate jewelry has been a strong and growing department for the firm. This sale featured a 2.10-carat diamond bypass solitaire ring nicknamed “Pure Perfection,” mounted by Claude Thibadeau in platinum and 18kt yellow gold ($10,925); a fine 1.68-carat emerald cut diamond ring flanked by tapered baguettes ($9,775); and a suite of Victorian coral jewelry, to include a necklace, brooch, bracelet and earrings ($7,188).

Additional jewelry pieces included necklace consisting of a long single strand of 89 near-round Akoya cultured pearls with great luster ($6,325); and a beautiful Victorian diamond and pearl bracelet with two finely detailed female period portraits on ivory ($4,600). Also sold was a circa 1920s Mariano Fortuny silk Delphos tea gown made of pleated silk, made in Italy ($6,038).

Continental silver wowed the crowd, beginning with a pair of George III entrée dishes and covers, each piece bearing the sponsor’s mark for Paul Storr (London, 1799). The set went for $10,925. Also, a George IV sterling silver tray with armorial crest (London, 1814) realized $6,038; and a Danish silver tea urn in the Regency style (Michelsen, 1980) brought $3,220.

American silver did nearly as well. A Tiffany & Company “Winthrop” sterling flatware service for 12, with the original price list dated Aug. 1921 and weighing 103.6 total troy oz., fetched $3,680; a set of 12 Mexican sterling stemmed wines, 81.28 total troy oz., commanded $2,185; and a Towle “Old Master” sterling flatware service for 8, 35 total troy oz., hit $1,725.

The undisputed king of the Southern pottery category was a monumental Dave the Slave jar (Edgefield, S.C., inscribed Oct. 1857). The jar, ovoid form with applied wide ear handles, knocked down at $25,300. Also, a late 1920s C. B. Masten earthenware glazed footed vase sold for $1,610; and a fine pair of circa 1940 North Carolina earthenware floor vases made $2,300/pr.

Tops among sculptures and bronzes was a large antique Italian blackamoor carving, circa 18th century or earlier, with polychrome decoration and attired in a plumed costume, on a custom black painted wood plinth ($10,925); and an Art Deco sculpture by Roland Paris (Ger., 1894-1915), depicting a dapper gentleman serenading a swooning woman with his guitar ($4,140).

Lighting examples illuminated the room, starting with a fine Georgian-style chandelier, made circa 19th century and featuring ten lights, draped with crystal cut swags and five upper bell form crystal arms ($10,925). Also, a pair of Empire bronze and ormolu mounted candelabra, converted to table lamps and each raised on a stepped square base with four paw feet hit $2,185.

Militaria also got paddles wagging, to include a Confederate officer tintype with an 1864 letter pertaining to cavalryman Capt. William Jones White of Warrenton, N.C. ($4,370); antique bronze models of a cannon and caisson, elaborately engraved and based on weaponry from the Napoleonic wars ($1,955); and a Confederate-used Pattern 1853 Enfield rifle-musket ($1,265).

Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, Ltd. is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single item, an estate or a collection, you may call them at (919) 644-1243, or you can e-mail them at info@LLAuctions.com. For more information on the firm and the upcoming March 18-19 sale, please log on to www.LLAuctions.com.


Chinese cabinet:
19th century Chinese pagoda form wood and ivory display cabinet in good condition ($34,500).

Chateau Lafite:
Two lots of three bottles each of Chateau Lafite Rothschild wine (2000) went for $6,440 each.

Fitzhugh platter:
Chinese Export orange Fitzhugh pattern platter, made just for the American market ($10,350).

Bisschop painting:
Signed oil on canvas by Abraham Bisschop (1660-1731), titled Birds in a Landscape ($27,600).

Victorian bracelet:
Victorian diamond and pearl bracelet with a pair of female period portraits on ivory ($4,600).







Paul Storr silver:
Pair of George III sterling silver entrée dishes and covers by Paul Storr (London, 1799, $10,925).

BROWN’S CELEBRATED INDIAN HERB BITTERS BOTTLE BRINGS $36,960 AT INTERNET & CATALOG AUCTION HELD BY AMERICAN BOTTLE AUCTIONS

FOR IMMEDIATE ELEASE

Contact: Jeff Wichmann
(800) 806-7722
info@americanbottle.com

BROWN’S CELEBRATED INDIAN HERB BITTERS BOTTLE BRINGS $36,960 AT INTERNET & CATALOG AUCTION HELD BY AMERICAN BOTTLE AUCTIONS

It was just the 51st auction for the young firm, and it may have been their best sale ever.

(SACRAMENTO, Calif.) – An outstanding, mint condition Brown’s Celebrated Indian Herb bitters bottle, patented Feb. 11, 1868, sold for $36,960 in an Internet and catalog auction held Oct. 29-Nov. 13 by American Bottle Auctions (www.americanbottle.com). It was the 51st auction held by the young firm, which has become synonymous with vintage bottle collecting.

“Overall I felt the sale was a great success and may have been our best auction ever, based on the fact that nearly all of the 375 lots sold,” said Jeff Wichmann of American Bottle Auctions, “and the eleven bottles that didn’t sell found new homes after the auction. We had over 100,000 hits on the catalog page and over 400 bidders.” The auction grossed around $300,000.

The Brown’s bitter was by far the top lot of the sale. Graded 9.9 out of 10 for condition and boasting a perfectly flat lip, the bottle was consigned by a woman who collected for fun years ago. “When she bought it, she was offered the choice of an amber or clear example, and thankfully she picked the clear one,” Mr. Wichmann said, adding it is likely flint, not lead glass.

“Bitters and flasks are hot sellers right now,” Mr. Wichmann observed. “I have to believe they are entering a new age. People are beginning to realize they just aren’t coming up at auction like they did, and everyone is scrambling to get the rarest and most perfect examples out there. Whether this is a tulip craze or real people with real money in it for the long haul, I don’t know.”

The auction featured bitters and historical flasks, but also Western whiskey bottles, sodas, medicine bottles and other offerings. Most of the bottles dated from 1850-1900, the period most desired by collectors, when superior embossing techniques were used. Bidders were encouraged to use the online catalog, where large photos and full-color videos of each bottle were shown.

Following are additional highlights from the auction. All prices quoted include a 12 percent buyer’s premium.

The surprise lot of the sale was an Eagle/Grapes one-quart flask that soared to $19,600, against a pre-sale estimate of $1,000-$2,000. The crudity, condition (mint) and color (a brilliant turquoise) combined to spark a bidding war. Also, a GI-40 Major Ringold Rough ‘n’ Ready pint flask in a very light aqua color brought $15,680 (it would have hit $20,000 except for a lip chip).

Another surprise happened when a pair of Fells Point/Sloop GVI-2 half-pint flasks came up for bid. One was puce, a very common variant, while the other was topaz -- much rarer and possibly unique. But when the final hammer fell, the puce bottle realized $12,320 and the topaz one fetched $5,152. “Should have been the other way around,” Mr. Wichmann said. “Go figure.”

A California wine bitters (M. Keller, Los Angeles), made in 1863 (the only year of production), a beautiful pastel green with loads of whittle and super strong strike, graded 9.8, gaveled for $10,080; and a Fish bitters (W. H. Ware, 1866) finished at $9,520. “I think it could have gone a bit higher,” Mr. Wichmann said, “but a small postone scared some bidders away.”

An original Pocahontas bitters (Y. Ferguson), aqua blue with an applied top and completely covered in a Benicia film, one of the finest Benicia bottles ever seen, graded 9.8, coasted to $7,280; and a Dr. Wosner’s USA Indian Root bitters, very popular with collectors and having a deep amber coloration, lots of tiny bubbles and overall whittle, graded 9.7, hit $6,720.

Two bottles went for identical prices of $6,160. One was a Lancaster Glassworks Cornucopia urn (GIII-16), with a sheared lip and open pontil. The pint flask was sapphire in color and graded 9.8. The other was an Old Pioneer Whiskey bottle (A. Fednkhausen & Co., Sole Agents, S.F.). The 1880s bottle had a gorgeous amber color and a super strong strike.

A Dr. Robertson’s Family Medicine bottle (prepared by T.W. Dyott, circa 1809-1815), made by Kensington Glass Works, rose to $4,704. It is believed to be the first ever embossed medicine bottle made in the United States. Also, a Bear Grass Kentucky Bourbon western fifth (Braunschweiger & Bumsted, Sole Agents, S.F., 1883-1884), graded 9.5, hammered for $4,256.

Rounding out the sale’s top lots: a Double Eagle GII-91 green flask with applied band and smooth base, graded 9.2, changed hands for $4,032; a Dr. Henley’s Wild Grape Root bitters with super heavy whittle and beautiful green color, graded 9.8, went for $3,808; and a Wister’s Clubhouse bottle, made circa 1851-1855, a beautiful teal color, graded 9.8, finished at $3,360.

American Bottle Auctions was founded in 1990 by Jeff Wichmann, a native Californian who has been collecting antique bottles for 40 years. Over time, the firm grew and underwent a name change, but the focus has always remained the same: to specialize in appraising, brokering, consigning and auctioning antique bottles and glass. Bottle collecting is enormously popular.

Mr. Wichmann has researched, appraised and estimated the values of thousands of antique bottles and related items. He is often called on to appraise antique bottles and glass for individuals and businesses. In 1999, he wrote and published The Best of the West – Antique Western Bitters Bottles, a research guide. He has also written many articles on antique bottles.

American Bottle Auctions is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single bottle or an entire collection, you may call them toll-free, at 1-800-806-7722; or, you can e-mail them, at info@americanbottle.com. To learn more about American Bottle Auctions and the firm’s next scheduled Internet and catalog sale, log on to AmericanBottle.com.


Brown's Celebrated:
The top lot of the auction was this Brown's Celebrated Indian Herb bitters from 1868 ($36,960).

Eagles Grapes:
The surprise lot of the sale was this turquoise Eagle/Grapes one-quart flask that brought $19,600.

Major Ringold:
Major Ringold (GI-40) Rough 'n' Ready pint flask with a very light aqua coloration ($15,680).







Fells Point:
This puce Fells Point/Sloop half-pint flask went for $12,320, way more than a topaz example.

California bitters:
California wine bitters (M. Keller, Los Angeles, made in 1863, beautiful pastel green ($10,080).

Fish bitters:
This Fish bitters (W.H. Ware, 1866) made $9,520. A small postone kept it from bringing more.