Trove of Tiffany Silver, Fine and Decorative Art Selected for Quinn’s Sept. 10 Auction

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date of Release: Aug. 28, 2011

Trove of Tiffany Silver, Fine and Decorative Art Selected for Quinn’s Sept. 10 Auction

Also slated: Sept. 7 Pewter session and Sept. 8 Antique Books session featuring important 1802 Thomas Jefferson-signed Presidential document

FALLS CHURCH, Va. – When it comes to elegant residential decor and grand ambassadorial-style hospitality, few American cities can match Washington, D.C. A hub for international diplomats for centuries, it has long been known as a sweet spot for tasteful antiques and artworks, such as those to be auctioned Sept. 10, 2011 at Quinn’s & Waverly in suburban Falls Church, Virginia. A special Sept. 8 offering of antique books, maps and autographs; and a Sept. 7 session devoted to antique pewter will precede the main sale.

The company’s Sept. 10 Fine & Decorative Art sale includes a wealth of treasures from D.C.-area homes, including a superb Tiffany & Co. antique sterling silver flatware service for 12 and a striking hand-painted and glazed Picasso ceramic pitcher.

Representing the highest quality in American decorative arts, the Tiffany name has never fallen out of favor with bidders at Quinn’s auction events. From the retail side of the Tiffany operation, Quinn’s will present as the centerpiece of its upcoming sale a magnificent circa-1900 sterling silver flatware service in the Florentine pattern. The set is accompanied by no fewer than a dozen serving pieces, including a soup ladle, asparagus tongs, pie knife and salad fork and spoon. The total measurable weight for the service – which is stored in a custom-made, triple-tier satin-lined chest – is 272.436 ozt. The hefty sterling service carries a presale estimate of $20,000-$25,000.

A classic circa-1905 Tiffany Studios table lamp entered in the Sept. 10 sale actually came from a private collection in Chicago and features an exquisite Daffodil shade on a perfectly balanced, urn-form, oil-font base. It has multiple Tiffany markings and stamps on both the shade and base – always a desired bonus – and is expected to make $15,000-$20,000.

A handsome mid-19th-century Continental rosewood-veneer secretary features two doors with glass panels in Gothic trefoil frames, and side-by-side drawers over a pull-out writing surface that reveals further drawers and inlaid pigeon holes. The bottom portion consists of three stacked drawers centered by two cabinets. Estimate: $2,000-$3,000.

Ever-popular Picasso pottery is represented by a circa-1952 painted and glazed “Cavalier and Horse” glazed earthenware pitcher. Finished in deep cobalt blue, tobacco brown and black on a white ground, it is inscribed “Edition Picasso” and “Madoura,” with appropriate stamps and the edition number “126/300.” The vessel is estimated at $4,000-$6,000.

Fine art entries include a signed, circa-1963 Richard Alan Schmid (American, B. 1934-) oil on canvas titled Azaleas. An accomplished work measuring 20 by 12 inches (sight) and presented in a frame inscribed “Framed by Schmid,” it is described by Quinn’s associate Matthew Quinn as “a painting with great presence – it captures the eye and stands out as being something special.” The artwork could bring $4,000-$6,000.

The oil-on-canvas landscape Pine Tree, Norfolk, Connecticut was painted by Guy Pene du Bois (American/French, 1884-1958) and features a central pine tree with long branches, against a hazy green and blue background. Artist-signed and inscribed, the artwork measures 16¼ by 12 inches (sight) and is estimated at $1,800-$2,000.

Measuring 42 inches wide by 21 inches high, a Royal Copenhagen glazed cobalt-blue porcelain coelacanth (also known as a “fossil fish”) features bas-relief scales, an arched back and open mouth. Designed by Jeanne Grut (b. 1927-), the piece is titled The Blue Fish and could reel in $3,000-$4,000.

An extraordinary memento of the Panama Canal’s excavation, a circa-1914 custom-made occupational shaving mug bears a photographic transfer image of a steam shovel crew on the canal’s worksite. “The consignor’s grandfather was the crew boss and had one of these mugs made for each of the 11 members of his crew,” said Matthew Quinn. “Occupational shaving mugs have developed a very strong following over the last few years. We think this extremely rare mug could make as much as $5,000 at auction.”

On Sept. 8, Quinn’s associate auction house Waverly’s, will offer 300-400 lots of rare books, maps and autographs, with the sale’s headliner being a highly important document signed in 1802 by President Thomas Jefferson and Secretary of the Navy Robert V. Smith. The document consists of instructions to commanders of U.S. armed vessels navigating the Barbary Coast, conveying to them the right to bear arms “…for protecting effectually the commerce and seamen thereof.” Jefferson goes on to say, “…you are hereby authorized and directed to subdue, seize, and make prize, of all vessels, goods and effects, belonging to the Bey [sic.] of Tripoli, or to his subjects, and to bring or send the same into port, to be proceeded against and distributed according to law.”

“This document, which was identified as ‘An Act for the protection of Commerce,’ was a key part of the Jefferson Administration’s increasingly strong response to the demands of northern African pirates for tribute in return for the safe passage of American merchant ships,” said Waverly’s specialist Anson Brown. At the time, captured American sailors were being held for ransom or even sold into slavery in Africa. Jefferson flatly rejected the Pasha of Tripoli’s demand in 1801 for $225,000 in tribute, with annual payments of $25,000 thereafter. Instead, Jefferson crafted an Act that empowered the U.S. Navy to arm its personnel and take proactive measures. The historically significant document is estimated at $3,500-$6,000.

The Sept. 7 session’s European pewter offerings are led by an early 17th-century charger stamped “Cardinal” and marked on the plate rim with the Arms of Bishop Adrian III or IV of Riedmatten. On verso, it is marked “Pierre II Royaume 1609” and has the hallmark “F” below a crown. Measuring 13¾ inches in diameter, it is expected to make $200-$400.

A group of four pewter boxes includes a spice box with animal feet and finial with an interior angel-and-sword mark for Johannes Vepz. It is also marked “1715” on the lid. The quartet also includes a sectioned French pharmacy box marked inside the lid “FP Dusaussois Paris 1795,” and an old pewter snuffbox, possibly 18th century. Lot estimate: $200-$300.

An American (Meriden, Conn.) Jean Theobald pewter tea set with wood handles includes a teapot, cream pitcher sugar dish and tray. Each piece is stamped “Pewter by Wilcox P26.” Quinn’s estimates the set will realize $200-$400.

All forms of bidding, including live via the Internet, will be available for Quinn’s Sept. 10 Fine & Decorative Art auction, and for the Sept. 7 Pewter and Sept. 8 Books, Maps & Autographs sessions. For additional information, call Matthew Quinn at 703-532-5632 or e-mail matthew.quinn@quinnsauction.com. Visit Quinn’s online.



Circa-1900 Tiffany & Co. sterling silver flatware service for 12, Florentine pattern, with additional serving pieces and triple-tier chest, est. $20,000-$25,000. Quinn’s Auction Galleries image.

ORIGINAL WORKS BY JASPER CROPSEY, BIRGE HARRISON, MARTHA WALTER AND OTHERS WILL BE IN SHANNON’S FINE ART AUCTION THURSDAY, OCT. 27

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Gene Shannon
(203) 877-1711
gene@shannons.com

ORIGINAL WORKS BY JASPER CROPSEY, BIRGE HARRISON, MARTHA WALTER AND OTHERS WILL BE IN SHANNON’S FINE ART AUCTION THURSDAY, OCT. 27

The sale will be conducted in Shannon’s gallery, at 354 Woodmont Road in Milford, Conn.

(MILFORD, Conn.) – Original works of art by such renowned painters as Jasper Cropsey, Birge Harrison, Martha Walter, John White Alexander and others – plus a pair of original etchings by Rembrandt and a rare etching by the Italian master Campagnola – will be sold Thursday, Oct. 27, by Shannon Fine Art Auctioneers, at their semi-annual fine art auction.

The auction will be held in Shannon’s spacious gallery facility, located at 354 Woodmont Road in Milford, located just off I-95 just south of New Haven. Phone and absentee bids will be accepted. Previews will be held from Oct. 17 up until auction day, Oct. 27, from 9-5:30 (except Sunday, Oct. 23, when the firm is closed).

Shannon’s only conducts two fine art auctions per year – in April and October – and when they happen, collectors do take notice. In the sale held this past April, bidders from 18 countries and 42 states participated, and the full bank of 20 phones was ringing all evening. As with last the sale, a live crowd of about 100 people is expected when bidding begins at 6 p.m.

“Thanks to some wonderful pieces already consigned, plus a museum collection that we expect to come in, this auction should be very strong,” said Gene Shannon of Shannon’s Fine Art Auctioneers. “And, typically, we experience a spurt of other great consignments in the three weeks leading up to sale. Overall there will be more than 250 fresh-to-the-market lots to bid on.”

Two of the lots carry pre-sale estimates of $100,000-$150,000 and are expected to attract intense bidder interest. The first is a luminist view of the Hudson River by Jasper Cropsey (N.Y., 1823-1900). Mr. Cropsey was known for his autumnal landscapes. He is a leading member of the Hudson River School and his work coveted by collectors.

The other is a tea party painting by Martha Walter (1875-1976), who painted in France, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania over the course of her rich and fruitful career. She was best known for portrait work, beach-child-park paintings and landscapes. A second painting by her – a beach scene – will also come under the gavel. It is expected to command $60,000-$80,000.

The Birge Harrison painting is a scene of Bryant Part in New York City (est. $80,000-$120,000). Mr. Harrison (N.Y./Mass./Calif., 1854-1929) was born in Philadelphia and has been described as one of America’s leading tonalist painters. He specialized in landscapes, and he bucked convention by eschewing en plein air work, preferring instead to paint from memory.

Another painting expected to get paddles wagging is John White Alexander’s Lady in Green (est. $60,000-$80,000). Mr. Alexander (N.Y./N.J./France, 1856-1915), was born in Pennsylvania, but became one of the most prominent artists in New York City in the late 19th and early 20th century. He painted portraits and murals but was best known for his female renderings.

Any time the name Rembrandt comes up at auction, it generates buzz, and this auction has two works by the Dutch master (1606-1669). Both are original etchings and one, a diminutive self-portrait, has a pre-sale estimate of $30,000-$50,000. Another etching, by the Italian master Domenico Campagnola (1484-1550) is exceedingly rare, but has been estimated conservatively, at $20,000-$30,000.

A museum-size harbor view by Jonas Lie (N.Y./Norway, 1880-1940) should realize $50,000-$75,000; a still life of cherries tumbling from a basket by the still life master John F. Francis (Pa., 1808-1886) is expected to garner $40,000-$60,000; and White Birches, a Vermont masterpiece by Luigi Lucioni ((N.Y./N.J./Vt./Italy, 1900-1988) should also hit $30,000-$50,000. (Note: Shannon’s set a world record for a work by Mr. Lucioni, selling a painting for $153,000).

A portrait of a seated young woman by Irving Ramsey Wiles (N.Y., 1861-1948) should cross the block for $30,000-$50,000; Arizona Twilight, by Dale Nichols (Neb./Ill./Kan., 1904-1995), is expected to reach $30,000-$50,000; a lost masterpiece by William Holbrook Beard (N.Y./Kan., 1824-1900), depicting bears and goats cavorting, should fetch $30,000-$50,000; and a painting of the Andes by Elizabeth Gilbert Jerome (Conn., 1824-1910) will also be offered.

Collectors will also be interested to know that works by Richard E. Miller, Frederick Bridgman, Robert Vickrey, George Russell and Hans Dahl will also be featured in the sale.

Among the Modern artists, several works are worthy of mention. They include Test Pilot by Gerald Laing (U.K., b. 1936), expected to bring $12,000-$18,000 (Shannon’s set a new world record for this artist, too, in its April sale, when a work soared to $96,000). Carnival Abstraction, by Rolph Scarlett (N.Y./Calif., 1889-1984), meanwhile, should garner $30,000-$50,000 (and Shannon’s established a new auction record for this artist, too, selling a piece for $84,000).

Other Modern art notables will include a rare Provincetown pointillist work, executed circa 1917 by Blanche Lazzell (Mass./W. Va., 1878-1956), which should sell for $25,000-$35,000; a powerful early 1950s abstract work by Charles Green Shaw (N.Y., 1892-1974), titled Polychrome (est. $15,000-$25,000); and a vibrant colored print by the pop imagery cartoon painter Roy Lichtenstein (N.Y., 1923-1997), titled Crying Girl (est. $20,000-$30,000).

Shannon’s Fine Art Auctioneers is one of only two auction houses in the country that sells only fine art. Its auctions include paintings, watercolors, drawings and rare prints. Historically, Shannon’s has specialized in American and European art executed between 1840 and 1940. But in recent years the firm has expanded more into post-war Modern and Pop art.

Shannon’s produces a 180-page, full-color catalog and an eight-page, oversize color brochure that is mailed to 18,000 clients. Paintings consigned to Shannon’s are viewed by collectors, museum directors, appraisers and clients with an interest in fine international art. The firm markets itself online worldwide and in newsletters and magazines in Europe and the U.S.

Shannon’s Fine Art Auctioneers will be accepting quality consignments for the Oct. 27 sale through Sept. 13. To consign a single piece of artwork, an estate or an entire collection, you may call them at (203) 877-1711; or, you can e-mail them at info@shannons.com. To learn more about Shannon’s and the upcoming Oct. 27 fine art auction please log on to www.shannons.com.




Luminist view of the Hudson River by renowned artist Jasper Cropsey (est. $100,000-$150,000).




Figural painting of ladies having tea by Martha Walter (est. $100,000-$150,000).




Figural beach scene by Martha Walter (est. 60,000-$80,000).




Diminutive original self-portrait etching by the Dutch master Rembrandt (est. $30,000-$50,000).


Portrait of a seated young woman by Irving Ramsey Wiles (est. $30,000-$50,000).



Original rendering by Dale Nichols, tiled Arizona Twilight (est. $30,000-$50,000).

Original figural work by Hans Dahl.

Vibrant colored print by Roy Lichtenstein, titled Crying Girl (est. $20,000-$30,000).

AROUND 2,000 QUALITY LOTS OF VINTAGE FIREARMS, MILITARIA, AMMUNITION, CIVIL WAR ITEMS & MORE ARE IN AN AUCTION NOW ONLINE AT SOLDUSA.COM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

AROUND 2,000 QUALITY LOTS OF VINTAGE FIREARMS, MILITARIA, AMMUNITION, CIVIL WAR ITEMS & MORE ARE IN AN AUCTION NOW ONLINE AT SOLDUSA.COM

The auction ends Sept. 24th and could well end up being the biggest sale the firm has ever held.

(MATTHEWS, N.C.) – An estimated 2,000 quality lots of rare and vintage firearms, militaria, ammunition, Civil War memorabilia, personality items, Winchesters and more are all in an auction now online at SoldUSA.com. The sale ends Sept. 24. “By the time it’s over this could very well be the biggest auction we’ve ever had,” said David Reichle of SoldUSA.com.

Consignments kept pouring in, even after the auction first went online in mid-August. “I realize part of that is driven by the poor economy,” Mr. Reichle remarked. “People need to get their hands on quick cash for a variety of reasons, and sometimes selling their treasured items is a means to do that. It’s unfortunate, but it also creates tremendous opportunities for collectors.”

Personality items are a popular feature of the auction. Two lots in particular promise to generate much bidder interest. The first is a lot comprising the 1950s-era shirt, bolo tie, guns and holsters worn by Duncan Renaldo, the actor who portrayed Cisco Kid on the hit TV series. The items come with a personal appearance advance advertising poster and certificate of authenticity.

The other is a rare Jesse James collectible – a Hopkins & Allen Ranger No. 2 nickel-plated .32 caliber Smith & Wesson solid frame singe-action pistol, once owned by Zerelda “Zee” James, the wife of Jesse James. According to legend, Jesse bought the pocket pistol for Zee in 1879 (the same year the gun was produced), to commemorate the birth of their daughter, Mary.

Speaking of weapons, one that is already garnering attention is a 1913 Remington .22 caliber Model No. 4S military rolling block rifle, in the rare ‘Boy Scout Rifle’ variation. The rifle was only produced that one year (1913) of the ten years Remington made the 4S model. This specimen is complete (save for one screw), the action is crisp and the sights are original.

One musket and one pistol are also expected to do well. The musket is an antique U.S. Springfield Model 1863 rifled musket (second model Allin trapdoor conversion model 1866, .50-.70 caliber). Considering its scarcity, the musket has a fine overall appearance. Both sling swivels are present and original, the hammer spring is strong and the actions function perfectly.

The pistol is a circa 1840-1850 British Tower Cavalry horse pistol, with swivel ramrod (which denotes Cavalry use). The .66 caliber smoothbore pistol is 15 inches in length overall, with an 8-inch round barrel. The lockplate is marked ‘Tower’ and has the Crown emblem. It is a stunning example of a large caliber horse pistol from the glory days of British military combat.

Civil War items are surefire crowd-pleasers. This sale features a Union (U.S.) enlisted model 1863 two-piece sword belt plate with applied wreath, unmarked. The non-dug belt plate has a nice mellow patina, with the reverse side being somewhat darker. It also has some expected scratches and dings, plus some wear on the front of the eagle’s breast, but it’s still a nice piece.

Also offered will be a framed Abraham Lincoln 1860 campaign photo print from the original negative, produced in 1956 by the Herbert Goring Studio. The photo print, measuring 10 ½ inches wide by 13 ½ inches tall, is in perfect condition and has been professionally matted and framed under glass (with UV protection). The frame has a ¼-inch ding on the bottom front side.

Also from the Civil War era is a French import Model 1850 foot officer’s sword and scabbard made by Klingenthal, with a 28 ½ inch acid etched blade. The sword features a fancy cast brass guard with D-shaped knuckle guard and a brass mounted steel scabbard in very nice shape. It’s a great example of a sword that was carried into battle by Civil War Infantry officers.

Another sword of note is an outstanding presentation sword and scabbard made by E.A. Armstrong (Detroit, Mich.). The GAR Model 1860 staff and field officer’s presentation sword – having a 30-inch straight blade that is ¾ inch wide at the hilt and tapers to a point at the end, with a diamond cross section – is engraved “to D.G. Nesbit, 1895,” and is in outstanding shape.

Ammo boxes are a staple at SoldUSA.com, and this sale’s got some nice ones, like the original, unopened, 50-count, two-piece, fully sealed box of Winchester Model 1873 .44 caliber cartridges.
The box top has the correct green label, and graphics include a rifle illustration, the Winchester guarantee and a cartridge illustration. The top and bottom show standard shelf wear.

Powder flasks are also highly collectible, and this auction is featuring an antique eagle pistol powder flask (circa 1860s-1870s), 4 ¾ inches long, double-sided and all-original. The small size flask would have been for .31 or .36 caliber pistols and revolvers. Both sides show a patriotic eagle with a shield over two crossed pistols and with 13 stars spread around an eagle.

Axes, hatchets and knives round out the list of expected top lot categories. Among these is a rare and vintage Marble’s Safety Axe (#2P), with swivel spring-loaded pick head. The never-used axe is 11 inches overall, with a 3 ¾ inch axe head and 2 ½ inch blade. It has the lead-lined safety guard, which is marked ‘Marble Safety Axe Company, Gladstone, Mich., USA, Pat.1898.’

Also for sale is a rare, vintage Tomahawk hatchet and knife combination with leather sheath (circa 1930, produced in Clinton, Mass.). It is considered to be the most desirable sporting hatchet and knife set by collectors. The 11 ¼ inch long Tomahawk metal hatchet is a copy of the Marble’s Safety Axe, minus the blade guard. Included is the hatchet’s rare brown leather sheath.

To learn more about SoldUSA.com and the auction slated to end Sept. 24, 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.




Shirt with bolo tie, guns and holsters worn by actor Duncan Renaldo on the TV show Cisco Kid.




Pocket pistol purchased in 1879 by the legendary outlaw Jesse James for his wife, Zee James.




Civil War-era Union (U.S.) enlisted man's Model 1863 sword belt plate with applied wreath.




Framed 1860 campaign photo print of Abraham Lincoln, made in 1956 by Herbert Georg Studio.




Original unopened 50-count box of Winchester Model 1873 .44 caliber cartridges, fully sealed.




Rare, vintage Tomahawk hatchet and knife combination with leather sheath, used, circa 1930.

ENGLISH, FRENCH, CONTINENTAL, AMERICAN AND ASIAN FINE FURNITURE, PLUS FINE & DECORATIVE ARTS WILL BE SOLD SEPT. 10 BY GREAT GATSBY’S

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Marie Kowalik
(770) 457-1903, ext. 115
marie@greatgatsbys.com

ENGLISH, FRENCH, CONTINENTAL, AMERICAN AND ASIAN FINE FURNITURE, PLUS FINE & DECORATIVE ARTS WILL BE SOLD SEPT. 10 BY GREAT GATSBY’S

The auction will be held in the firm’s gallery, at 5180 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. in Atlanta.

(ATLANTA, Ga.) – A fine estates auction featuring hundreds of fresh-to-the-market lots of English, French, Continental, American and Asian furniture, plus fine and decorative arts, will be held Saturday, Sept. 10, by Great Gatsby’s Auction Gallery, beginning promptly at 11 a.m. (EST), in Great Gatsby’s Gallery, located at 5180 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard in Atlanta.

“This sale will feature property from prominent estates and collections from around the world,” said Marie Kowalik, president of Great Gatsby’s, adding, “Live and absentee bidding, with live audio/video streaming, will be accessible on the Great Gatsby’s website, at www.greatgatsbys.com.” An online preview with live online bidding will be available beginning Aug. 25.

Furniture pieces of note will include a massive 19th century carved oak buffet, attributed to Alexander Roux and believed to have been made for the 1853 Crystal Palace Exposition (125 inches tall by 105 inches wide) ; a monumental mid-19th century French carved oak buffet (145 inches tall by 114 inches wide); and an early 19th century Irish Chippendale mahogany console.

Also offered will be a mid-19th century George III-style Cuban mahogany double-door linen press (84 inches tall by 51 ½ inches wide) and a monumental 19th century carved oak fireplace mantle, with mirrored overmantle (130 inches tall by 70 inches wide). Chairs will feature a pair of 18th century American carved mahogany Chippendale side chairs and an oversized early 19th century Venetian rococo carved oak throne chair, tall at 73 inches in height.

From the Asian items category, two lots expected to do well are a Chinese carved wedding bed (100 inches tall by 82 inches wide) and a pair of antique Asian woven hats (including one rattan Chinese military foot soldier’s hat from the Qing Dynasty, 11 inches diameter; and one World War I-era woven coolie hat, 23 inches in diameter).

Artwork will be offered in abundance. A few expected star lots will be a mid-20th century mixed media work by Xie Zhi An, titled and dated en verso Early Spring in the Commune (1964); an early 18th century oil on canvas on panel depiction of the Holy Family; and a 19th century Italian bronze sculpture of Mercury (75 inches tall, 12 inches in diameter at the base).

Also sold will be an oversized early 18th century oil on canvas portrait of Sir Thomas Covenry (52 inches by 42 inches); a pair of oversized 20th century oil on canvas landscape panels, each one measuring 101 inches by 69 inches; an oversized late 19th century Continental oil on canvas portrait of a nobleman (55 inches by 43 inches); and a very fine 18th century Continental Old Master oil on canvas portrait of a royal in a suit of armor.

Decorators looking for a gorgeous room divider are in luck. The sale has two: a massive 19th century pierce carved rosewood center-of-the-room divider, depicting dragons chasing the flaming pearl (101 inches tall by 75 inches wide); and a mid-20th century hand-painted five-panel room divider decorated with bright tropical foliage and birds (96 inches tall by 105 inches wide).

Folks in the hunt for a rug or tapestry will also feel fortunate. The auction will feature a nice grouping of finely woven, 100 percent silk Persian rugs, ranging from a palace-size Tabriz (magnificent at 13 feet by 20 feet) to something more modest (about 8 feet by 10 feet); as well as an early 18th century French verdure Aubusson tapestry (114 inches high by 164 inches wide).

Stained glass windows will also change hands, to include a 20th century American stained glass window crafted out of two- and three-layer art glass by Ken Phillips Studios (48 inches tall by 24 inches wide); and a 20th century American stained glass window titled Koi Pond, crafted of three- and four-layer art glass and artist signed Steven Steltz (44 inches high by 44 inches wide).

Rounding out just some of the day’s expected top lots will be an early 19th century British military officer’s campaign trunk with brass bound strapping; three 19th century needlepoint valances with a central petite point heraldic crest, mounted for hanging; a pair of late 19th century oversized English porcelain hand-painted vases (28 inches tall and 9 ½ inches diameter at the base); and a mid-19th century Continental iron shield with a well-detailed figural battle scene.

Great Gatsby’s specializes in conducting successful personal property sales. The firm’s global marketing strategy and international clientele ensures the personal property it represents receives the far-reaching exposure it deserves.

Great Gatsby’s is always accepting quality consignments for future auctions. To inquire about consigning a single item, a collection or an entire estate, you may call them at (770) 457-1903; or, you can e-mail them at auction@greatgatsbys.com. To learn more about Great Gatsby’s and the firm’s upcoming Sept. 10 Auction, please log on to www.greatgatsbys.com.




A grouping of finely woven, 100 percent silk Persian rugs, like this massive Tabriz, will be sold.




Massive 19th century pierce carved rosewood center-of-the-room divider, 101” tall by 75” wide.




20th century American stained glass window titled Koi Pond, signed by the artist Steven Steltz.




Monumental 19th century carved oak fireplace mantle, with mirrored overmantle, 130” in height.




Massive 19th century carved oak buffet attributed to Alexander Roux, 125” tall by 105” wide.




Oversize late 19th century Continental oil on canvas portrait, 55” high by 43” wide.

ASIAN ANTIQUES, VINTAGE CLOCKS, FINE ARTS AND FURNITURE ITEMS WILL BE SOLD SEPT. 9-10 BY GORDON S. CONVERSE & CO. IN MALVERN, PA., AT 10:30 A.M.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Gordon Converse
(484) 431-5543 or (610) 722-9004
Gordon@ConverseClocks.com

ASIAN ANTIQUES, VINTAGE CLOCKS, FINE ARTS AND FURNITURE ITEMS WILL BE SOLD SEPT. 9-10 BY GORDON S. CONVERSE & CO. IN MALVERN, PA., AT 10:30 A.M.

The auction will be conducted at the Peoples Light & Theater Company, at 30 Conestoga Road.

(MALVERN, Pa.) – A large two-session auction featuring Asian antiques, vintage clocks and watches, fine arts and furniture items will be held Sept. 9-10 by Gordon S. Converse & Company at the Peoples Light & Theater Company, located at 39 Conestoga Road in Malvern, a city situated in eastern Pennsylvania, not far off Interstate 76, just north and west of Philadelphia.

The start times both days will be 10:30 a.m. (EDT). Previews for the first session (the Asian sale), will be held Thursday, Sept. 8, from 11-5:30, and from 8:30 a.m. to the start of sale on Friday, Sept. 9. Previews for the second session (antiques and clocks) will be held Thursday, same times as the session one preview, and Saturday, Sept. 10, from 8:30 a.m. to the start of sale.

By far the most viewed item to date has been lot #197 from the Sept. 9 session, but a quick click of the mouse will explain why. It is an oil on canvas rendering of a stunning young nude Chinese lady. The work, in an image area of 30 inches by 24 inches and without stretchers, is expected to sell for $150-$250.

Sept. 9 will also feature a large variety of porcelains, such as a stunning and fine 15-inch green celadon glazed vase with two-color crackle glaze finish and reindeer handles (est. $800-$2,000), plus many other examples from Japanese and Chinese porcelain makers dating back to the 1600s and leading up to the present day. Many will exhibit colorful glazes and techniques.

Two superstar lots of the Sept. 9 session promise to be an exceptionally fine 19th century carved ivory figure depicting Quan Ying holding an oval container, 10 inches in height and signed with two characters and “China,” on a wooden base (est. $7,000-$12,000); and a fine and well-preserved blue and white glazed ovoid (or pear form) vase, 6 ½ inches tall and featuring a single dragon coiling between borders with a flared, trumpet-shaped top (est. $5,000-$8,000).

Other Asian objects set to cross the block that day include a massive green jade seal (4 ¾ inches square by 5 inches tall), with calligraphy on all sides and contained in a dark wood fitted box (est. $450-$650); and an antique Chinese bowl (3 ¼ inches by 8 inches) with blue and white interior showing impressive dragons and the same dragon motif outside (est. $120-$200).

Rare and vintage clocks will dominate the Saturday session (Sept. 10). Two anticipated top earners will feature a very rare 19th century mahogany cased regulator clock with a five-legged gravity escapement, made by Wainmann of Howden, England (est. $8,500-$12,500); and a 34-inch early banjo timepiece in the original “crossbanded” style, with a mahogany case attributed to Simon Willard, circa 1802-1905 (est. $6,000-$12,000).

Two Philadelphia mahogany tall case clocks are expected to do well. One is an early 19th century clock with a heroic painted dial with Federal eagle, signed Abraham Cassel of Germantown (Philadelphia), and another by David Weatherby (est. $4,000-$6,000). There is also an English or Scottish example by John Kennedy, whose engraved brass dial has an upper signature boss signed by the maker with an 8-day bell strike clockworks (est. $1,500-$2,500).

Other clocks to be sold include an impressive late 19th century wall regulator by the E.N. Welch Company (est. 1,500-$3,000); a brass anchor escapement lantern clock signed on the dial “Thos. Mudge,” a weight-driven 17th century clock with a later wood bracket (est. $1,500-$2,500); and several mahogany veneer and reverse painted ‘pillar and scroll’ clocks by the Terrys of Plymouth, Conn.

Rounding out the clocks category will be a fine and unusual chime clock by G.W. Russell (Philadelphia, circa late 1800s), housed in a glass covered dome and set on an old wooden base (est. $1,500-$2,000); and the ‘Perpetum,’ a most unusual clock powered by steel balls that are stored above the clock and fall to the bottom, one by one (est. $700-$1,200).

The Sept. 10 session will feature much more than just vintage clocks. Furniture items will include a pair of cream-colored upholstered 1930s vintage easy chairs with laminated legs attributed to Alvar Aalto (Finnish, 1898-1976), circa 1931-1936 (est. $1,250-$3,500); and a fine, diminutive American mahogany Federal inlay server with two large cabinets and a central drawer (est. $1,000-$2,000).

Two violins are expected to get paddles wagging. One is a late 19th or early 20th century instrument by Leonardo Genaro with a fitted leather case, 23 inches in length and designed to be a copy of Antonius Stradivarius (est. $500-$2,500); and a 19th century example with labels from Wilhelm Fredel of Dresden, Germany (1875 and 1892), with fitted case and bow (est. $80-$100).

Also featured will be one of three impressionist oil paintings by Maurice Courant, depicting beach scenes; a large, professional-size astronomer’s refracting telescope attributed to W. & D. Mogey, with mounting stand and lenses (est. $600-$900); and a set of early 20th century Patrician stemware by Josef Hoffman (Austrian, 1870-1956, est. $600-$800).

Gordon S. Converse & Co. is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item, an estate or a collection, you may call them directly, at (610) 722-9004; or, e-mail them at Gordon@ConverseClocks.com. Gordon Converse replies promptly to all e-mails.

Anyone interested in finding out what an antique item might be worth may do so by sending a photo of the item, along with a check for $40, to Gordon S. Converse & Co., Attn: Gordon S. Converse, 758 Mancill Rd., Strafford, PA 19087. For more information, please log on to www.AuctionsatConverse.com or www.ConverseClocks.com. Updates are posted frequently.






Mahogany cased regulator clock by Wainmann with gravity escapement (est. $8,500-$12,500).







34-inch early banjo timepiece attributed to Simon Willard, circa 1802-05 (est. $6,000-$12,000).







Very fine blue and white ovoid (or pear form) vase from the Yuan Dynasty (est. $5,000-$8,000).







19th century carved ivory figure depicting Quan Yin holding a container (est. $7,000-$12,000).









Pair of cream-colored laminated chairs attributed to Alvar Aalto of Finland (est. $1,250-$3,500).








Fine, diminutive mahogany American Federal inlay server, or breakfront (est. $1,000-$2,000).








Stunning 15-inch green celadon glazed vase with 2-color crackle glaze finish (est. $800-$2,000).

AuctionZip Auctioneer Tips: Writing Press Releases

One way to effectively market your auction is by creating a press release. Journalists and reporters are always looking for interesting stories with local or national appeal. A well written press release makes their job easier and ensures you’ll get more coverage for your auction.

Here are a few tips when it comes to writing an effective press release:

Write your press release like a news story. Resist the temptation to include language that makes it obvious that you have a personal stake in this. Use an objective point of view.

Where, When and Why? While it is important to be concise, don’t forget to tell people where your auction is, when it will take place and why they should come.

Include quotes. Using quotes gives you an opportunity to make your sales pitch without sacrificing the objectivity of the story. In other words, let someone else tell people how great your auction is.

Include your contact information. Make sure to include an email address and phone number you check regularly so people can get in touch with you if they want more information.

Include links. You want it to be easy for people to “take action” after they read your press release. Include links to your website, online catalog or AuctionZip listing so they can check out your auction before they drive over.

Use internet resources. There are plenty of PR websites that will publish your press release for free. Additionally, many antique and collecting websites publish press releases. Here is a short list:


http://news-antique.com/?go=publish
http://service.prweb.com/go/psg_press-release/
http://www.i-newswire.com/
http://www.newswiretoday.com/index.php
http://www.pr.com/
http://www.prleap.com/
http://www.free-press-release.com/
http://www.clickpress.com/ www.antiquetrader.com
www.collect.com
www.antiqueweek.com
www.kovels.com
www.worthpoint.com
www.goantiques.com
www.maineantiquedigest.com
www.antiquesjournal.com
www.journalofantiques.com
www.todaysvintage.com


Be selective about when to write a release. In the long run, your press releases will have more impact if you write them when you have an auction that is especially notable. If you develop a reputation for writing releases for auctions that are not really newsworthy, people will start to ignore them. On the other hand if you are selective, editors and readers will pay more attention when you do write one.

AuctionZip Trend Report: Are Antiques Dead?

A few years ago, a fully restored 1940s peddle car would have fetched over $2,000 at auction. Now some auctioneers are lucky to get $500 if they sell at all. At a recent Skinner sale, an 18th century Queen Ann High Chest sold for $2,133 – a quarter of the price a similar chest fetched at the Boston-based auction house in 2004.

Is this just a case of values dropping during an economic downturn or are there other factors at play? Billy Burke, CAI - AARE founder and principal owner of The Auctionarium Inc in Rancho Mirage, CA, believes that high quality antiques will always hold some sort of value but may never bounce back to their “bubble values” of a few years ago. Prices for traditional antiques are also unlikely to rise as aging collectors downsize or liquidate – essentially flooding an already depressed market.

The decline in prices has given rise to a “cheaper than new” mentality. Antique markets and auctions are seen as high-quality alternatives to retail stores with buyers looking for pieces that reflect their personality and fit in with current styles. Why pay $119 for Crate & Barrel’s Vienna Side Chair when you can get an original Thonet cafe chair for $15 at a local flea market?

What “antique” means also changes over time. People want what their grandparents had and thanks to the popularity of shows like AMC’s Mad Men, retailers from Banana Republic to Target are churning out 1960s-inspired designs. So it’s not surprising to learn that this is one of the few segments of the market where values are rising. More than just the latest buzzword, “mid-century modern” represents a style of furniture, product design, and architecture that began after World War II and continued into the 1960s. Known for their simplicity, clean lines and high-quality materials, mid-century pieces fit in well with contemporary designs – making them an ideal choice for younger collectors.

Antiques are far from dead, but the market is changing. In these tough economic times the number of collectors willing to pay a premium for traditional antiques is diminishing daily. Buyers today are less concerned with building collections and more focused on finding functional, affordable pieces that follow current trends or express their own personal style.

SPECTACULAR AND RARE SICKLEBILL CURLEW DECOY FROM DUXBURY, MASS., SOARS TO $111,550 AT AUCTION HELD JULY 24th-25th BY DECOYS UNLIMITED, INC.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Ted Harmon
(508) 362-2766
theodores.harmon@comcast.net

SPECTACULAR AND RARE SICKLEBILL CURLEW DECOY FROM DUXBURY, MASS., SOARS TO $111,550 AT AUCTION HELD JULY 24th-25th BY DECOYS UNLIMITED, INC.

Nearly 1,000 lots crossed the block in a successful auction that grossed more than $1.2 million.

(HYANNIS, Mass.) - A spectacular and rare sicklebill curlew decoy made in Duxbury, Mass., by a craftsman whose identity is a matter of debate among veteran collectors, soared to $111,550 at an auction held July 24-25 by Decoys Unlimited, Inc., based in Barnstable, Mass. The sale was conducted at the Cape Codder Resort & Hotel in Hyannis, Mass., on Cape Cod.

The sicklebill curlew was described by Dr. George Ross Starr, in his book Decoys of the Atlantic Flyway, as “the finest example of a sicklebill decoy in my collection” and “the kind of a decoy a collector dreams about.” He called it “a beautifully proportioned piece of work.” It’s rare in part because sicklebill curlews are scarce in New England and therefore so are their decoys.

It was by far the top lot in an auction that saw just under 1,000 decoys change hands. About 400 people attended in person (121 were registered bidders), plus there were 57 absentee bidders and 90 phone bidders (who together bid on 639 lots). Internet bidding (via Artfact.com) had 153 registered bidders. All of these numbers were new records for Decoys Unlimited, Inc.

“The sale went well above our expectations despite a global economy that is still a bit anemic,” said Ted Harmon of Decoys Unlimited, Inc. “But the market for quality decoys is strong and I see it remaining that way for some time. The less expensive decoys were a bit off, but not as far off as they were last year.” The auction, he added, grossed more than $1.2 million.

Headlining the sale was the private collection of the late Joseph Bard “Joe” French, plus other quality consignments from across North America. Mr. French (1919-2009) was a pioneer in the hobby who collected his first decoy in 1954 and took delivery of his last decoy just two days before his passing. He also wrote extensively on the subject and produced decoy videos.

Following are additional highlights from the sale. All prices quoted include a 15 percent buyer’s premium.

The auction’s second top lot, at $60,375, was an outstanding hissing goose made circa early 1900s by George Boyd, the master decoy maker from Seabrook, N.H. The canvas over frame Canada goose boasted excellent, finely crackled original paint throughout plus a strong, nearly perfect wing, tail and cheek outline, and great feather detailing on the sides and rear neck.

Two lots posted identical sale prices of $37,375. One was an exceptionally rare pair of circa early 1900s unrigged and unused mergansers, acquired as a gift from Irving Wallace from Small Point, Maine. A letter of provenance came with the birds. The other was a pair of racy swimming red-breasted mergansers (circa 1918-1922) by A.E. Crowell of East Harwich, Mass.

A one-of-a-kind American merganser hen made in the late 1800s by the Stevens Factory of Weedsport, N.Y. (with the maker probably George Stevens, owing to the concave carving on the neck seat) went to a determined bidder for $29,900; and a pair of redheads crafted circa 1920s by the Ward Brothers of Crisfield, Md., with original paint on body and bill, hit $24,180.

Artwork was also featured in the auction. A framed oil on board of two mermaids and King Neptune by the noted Cape Cod artist Ralph Cahoon (1910-1982), a relative of C.D. Cahoon, who is said to have painted decoys for Elmer Crowell when he was behind on orders, brought $24,150. A second Ralph Cahoon work, depicting mermaids at auction, made $23,000.

A rare and early example of a sanderling (or “wind bird”), executed circa 1860-1890 and attributed to a member of the Chipman family of Sandwich (on Cape Cod), commanded $23,000; while a circa 1900 greater yellowlegs by A.E. Crowell featuring fine early period brushed soft original paint with very light wear and only a few very small scuffs knocked down at $18,400.

A pair of outstanding lots each fetched $17,200. The first was a circa-1909 eider drake by Augustus Aaron “Gus” Wilson, Maine’s most celebrated decoy maker. Wilson carved animated decoys of all types, including this early sculpture, in a career that spanned about five decades. The second was an early mallard drake by A.E. Crowell (circa 1915-1918) with original paint.

Another early example by A.E. Crowell – this one a circa-1915 golden plover with the original paint and in all-original condition with no repairs -- crossed the block at $16,100; and a pair of Evans Factory (active 1921-1937) blue-winged teal (circa early 1900s), with early paint and the rare double blue speculum, plus the ‘Evans Decoy’ stamp on the bottom, rose to $14,950.

Rounding out the day’s top lots, a rare and oversize red-breasted merganser drake by Doug Jester of Chincoteaque, Va., having the original paint with some crazing, breezed to $13,800; and an early gunning model of an immature (or winter plumage) black-bellied plover by A.E. Crowell (circa 1905-1910), with extremely fine original paint, also gaveled for $13,800.

Ted Harmon has been in the decoy collecting business since 1966 and has been in the same Barnstable, Mass., location since 1970. He and his wife Judy started the auction aspect of the business in 1986. Today, Decoys Unlimited, Inc., is a full-service company for collectors of American bird decoys, folk art and related items. The firm also offers personalized collection advice, auction and private purchase representation, brokering for sales and appraisal services.

Decoys Unlimited, Inc., is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single item or an entire collection, you may call them at (508) 362-2766 or (508) 737-2193; or, you can e-mail them at theodores.harmon@comcast.net. The firm’s next big auction will be a mixed antiques and decoys sale slated for late October or early November on Cape Cod.

To learn more about Decoys Unlimited, Inc., and for more information on the fall auction as times and dates are determined, please log on to www.decoysunlimitedinc.net.






The top lot of the sale was this spectacular sicklebill curlew from Duxbury, Mass. ($111,550).






Outstanding early 1900s hissing goose made by George Boyd of Seabrook, N.H. ($60,375).







Pair of circa 1918-1922 racy swimming red-breasted mergansers by A. E. Crowell ($37,375).







Framed oil on board painting of two mermaids and King Neptune by Ralph Cahoon ($24,150).







Greater yellowlegs by A.E. Crowell featuring soft early period brushed original paint ($18,400).









Pair of Evans Factory (active 1921-1937) blue-winged teal, created circa early 1900s ($14,950).

THE ANTIQUE FURNISHINGS OF THREE PROMINENT OLD MISSISSIPPI ESTATES WILL BE SOLD SATURDAY, AUG. 20, BY STEVENS AUCTION IN ABERDEEN, MS.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

THE ANTIQUE FURNISHINGS OF THREE PROMINENT OLD MISSISSIPPI ESTATES WILL BE SOLD SATURDAY, AUG. 20, BY STEVENS AUCTION IN ABERDEEN, MS.

Included will be an historic bedroom suite once owned by the second wife of Jefferson Davis.

(ABERDEEN, Miss.) – The antique furnishings of three prominent old Mississippi estates will be sold Saturday, Aug, 20, at 10 a.m. (CDT), by Stevens Auction Company, in the firm’s air-conditioned gallery at 609 North Meridian Street in Aberdeen, one block north of the historic Adams-French Mansion. Aberdeen is in northeastern Mississippi, not far from Tupelo.

One item with historical significance is an 1840s bedroom suite once owned by Varina Howell, the second wife of Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederacy. The suite was originally made for The Briars, an estate home in Natchez built in the 1830s that Ms. Howell lived in as a child. It was later given to a Dr. Whittington of Twin Oaks, another Natchez estate.

The bedroom suite remained in the Whittington family, at Twin Oaks, up until 15 years ago, when it was assumed by the estate’s present owner, who consigned it to Stevens Auction Company. “While the bedroom suite is certain to get a lot of richly deserved attention, it is just one of many amazing furnishings and other items to be sold that day,” remarked Dwight Stevens.

Another major estate in the auction is that of Mrs. Ellen Drake McCarley of Port Gibson, Miss. Mrs. McCarley is a third-generation Drake, a family that has lived on top of Drake Hill in Port Gibson for generations, since before the Civil War. The home she has owned for years, and has only recently had to leave due to poor health, is filled with many valuable ancestral treasures.

The furniture in the auction will be plentiful and much of it is attributable to the premier craftsmen of the day, like Meeks, Horner, Hastings and Boudoine. One R.J. Horner piece of note is a mahogany Federal-style sideboard with heavily carved back splash, made around 1890 and measuring 66 inches tall by 82 inches wide by 24 inches deep. The piece is signed R.J. Horner.

The pieces attributable to J. & J.W. Meeks will include a wonderful and rare mint julep cabinet made circa 1840, 39 inches tall by 37 inches wide; and a flamed mahogany period Empire pier table with white marble, circa 1835, 41 inches tall by 39 inches wide. A pair of heavily carved rosewood parlor side chairs, circa 1850, are attributable to Charles Boudoine.

A Hastings example worth mentioning is a mahogany Empire banquet dining table with five leaves, a gadrooned edge and grapes carved on the base. Other furniture lots to be sold will feature a period mahogany highboy chest with bonnet top; a heavily carved oak hall tree with oval bevel mirror, circa 1900; and a flamed mahogany Empire secretary desk, made circa 1850.

Beds and bedroom suites are staples at many Stevens auctions, and this sale will be no exception. In addition to the Varina Howell suite, also offered will be a mahogany Victorian half tester plantation bed, circa 1865, 8 feet 9 inches tall by 78 inches long; and a three-piece walnut Eastlake bedroom suite with half tester bed, dresser and wash stand in need of some restoration.

Decorative accessories will feature a pair of Old Paris mantel vases, pink and gold with black figures, circa 1850, 12 inches tall by 12 inches wide; a brilliant cut glass butter dish, circa 1910, 8 inches tall by 10 inches wide; a pair of crystal candle holders with crystal prisms, circa 1890, 15 inches tall by 5 inches wide; and a pillar and scroll Federal weight clock, 30 inches tall.

Returning to furniture, other expected top lots include a French crystal display cabinet with hand-carvings, glass doors, mirrored back and shelves, made circa 1870 and standing 8 feet 6 inches tall by 71 inches wide; and a period flamed mahogany Empire serving (or mixing) table, 4 feet tall by 67 inches wide. Also sold will be a mahogany Steinway & Sons parlor grand piano.

Terms of the auction will be cash, major credit cards and pre-approved checks. All sales will be final, with no warranty expressed or implied. A 12 percent buyer’s premium will be charged on each total purchase price, with a 2 percent discount for cash, business and personal checks with proper ID, or wire transfers. A 7 percent sales tax will apply to most purchases.

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 Aug. 20 estate auction, please log on to www.stevensauction.com.

Pair of Old Paris mantel vases, pink and gold with black figures, 12 inches tall, circa 1850.







Mahogany Federal-style sideboard, beautifully made circa 1890 and attributed to R.J. Horner.






Rare mint julep cabinet attributed to J. & J.W. Meeks, a wonderful example, made circa 1840.






Heavily carved oak hall tree with oval bevel mirror, 7 feet 9 inches tall, made circa 1900.





Mahogany Victorian half tester plantation bed made circa 1865, regal at 8 feet 9 inches tall.







Period mahogany highboy chest with bonnet top.

Schultz Auction Sells Rare Chinese Moon Flask for $1,751,500

Schultz Auction Sells Rare Chinese Moon Flask for $1,751,500

Photos courtesy Kelly and Benjamin Schultz.

by Charles Wenner

On May 7, an auction held by Kelly and Benjamin Schultz in Clarence, New York, led to a climactic bidding event that resulted in the sale of an 18th-century Chinese moon flask for $1,751,500 (includes buyer's premium).

The early flask has a white background accented by a dragon with brilliant red coloring and associated traditional designs in a deep cobalt blue. The dragon represents an imperial grandeur of an earlier era. It was skillfully crafted, and red is a difficult color to retain as a glaze when firing. Evidence that it is from the Qianlong period (1736-95) is suggested by the marking shown on the bottom of the flask, which is typical of Chinese items produced then. The Qianlong emperor was a great connoisseur of art and was actively involved in painting, writing poems and essays, doing calligraphy, and collecting and cataloging all sorts of art. The 60 years of his rule was a golden age of Chinese art.

For 50 years this flask had been in the possession of an unidentified Clarence, New York, couple who decided to have it evaluated and make it available for sale. Their daughter brought the flask to the Premier Antique Center, owned by Kelly Schultz. Although he was at first unaware of the flask's actual value, Schultz suggested that they consign it to auction where the public would decide its worth. After initial advertising, it soon became evident that the flask might be valuable. Many telephone calls were received about the flask.

Richard Peters of Richard Peters Antiques at Vicarage House, Kensington Church Street, London, a specialist in Chinese antiques, arrived to examine the flask. In attendance also was Tang Tao, an antiques dealer from Shanghai who represented other Chinese antiques dealers. He was accompanied by John Zhu, who spoke for Tao and Qiang Yuan.

Bidders from Hong Kong, London, and other parts of the U.S. were on the phones. Bidding for the flask opened at $25,000 but soon reached $100,000 increments. The two principal bidders were Richard Peters and Tang Tao. The winning bid was placed by Tao. Applause erupted from the audience.





Photos courtesy Kelly and Benjamin Schultz.


Originally published in the July 2011 issue of Maine Antique Digest. (c) 2011 Maine Antique Digest

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date of Release: August 3, 2011 Grey Flannel Auctions Sixth Annual Basketball Hall of Fame Induction Auction takes place Augu

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date of Release: August 3, 2011

Grey Flannel Auctions Sixth Annual Basketball Hall of Fame Induction Auction takes place August 12th

Featured in the Grey Flannel Auction are five championship rings, Dave Cowens’ MVP Award and Dr. J’s ABA All-Star jersey

WESTHAMPTON, N.Y. – Grey Flannel Auctions today announced details of its Sixth Annual Basketball Hall of Fame Induction Auction and other special events associated with the 2011 BHOF induction ceremony. The live auction will take place on Friday, Aug. 12 at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass.

This year’s enshrinement is expected to attract a packed house of returning Hall of Famers and other VIPs. The Class of 2011 includes (alphabetically): Teresa Edwards, Artis Gilmore, Herb Magee, Chris Mullin, Dennis Rodman, Arvydas Sabonis, Satch Sanders, Tara VanDerveer and Tex Winter. Also, legendary Harlem Globetrotter and hook shot inventor Reece “Goose” Tatum will be inducted posthumously.

Grey Flannel Auctions will begin its Hall of Fame activities on Aug. 11 by hosting an invitation-only pre-induction dinner for Hall of Famers, inductees and industry dignitaries at the Hall of Fame’s Center Court. The following afternoon, starting at 1 p.m., Grey Flannel will conduct its 170-lot auction of vintage basketball-related memorabilia.

“The material in our Basketball Hall of Fame auction amazes me more and more each year, but this year’s selection tops all others,” said Grey Flannel Auctions’ president Richard E. Russek. “Many of the jerseys, uniforms and other mementos were consigned directly by players, their families or team employees, and at least 50 lots are accompanied by letters of authenticity from those sources.” Russek added that six Hall of Famers plan to attend the auction in person.

A featured highlight is the collection of veteran TV commentator and 25-time Emmy® Award winner Al Trautwig, whose passion for a career in sports solidified during his teens, when he served as a ball boy for the ABA New York Nets and stick boy for the New York Islanders.

Among the most important items of game-used apparel in the Trautwig collection is Julius “Dr. J” Erving’s 1974 Eastern Conference ABA All-Star uniform. The striking red, white and blue uniform embellished with stars, Erving’s name, the number “32” and “ABA” is entered in the sale with a $10,000 reserve.

Another stellar lot is Rick Barry’s game-used ABA/NBA Super Games II uniform from 1972. “To our knowledge, this is the first ABA Super Games jersey ever to be offered at public auction,” said Russek.

While working for the Nets as a ball boy, Trautwig became a trusted insider, Russek said, sometimes even babysitting Rick Barry’s children. “The provenance for the Rick Barry Super Games jersey is direct and impeccable,” Russek said. “It comes with LOAs from both Rick Barry and Al Trautwig.” The jersey’s reserve is $5,000, although it is expected to go much higher. Russek explained:

“Rick Barry was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in History, and there’s tremendous interest, now, in game-used material connected to those Top 50 players. Collectors have become very competitive for these items and it has driven prices through the roof in our past sales. We expect to see a continuation of that trend in this sale,” Russek said.

A circa-1967 St. Louis Hawks game-used and autographed road jersey comes to auction from two-time Hall of Famer and Top 50 player Lenny Wilkens. “This is the only Lenny Wilkens game-used St. Louis Hawks jersey known to exist. There will be huge interest in this lot,” Russek predicted. “It has everything going for it – rarity, provenance, the connection to a Hall of Famer and Top 50 player, and an LOA from Lenny himself.” Reserve: $10,000.

Lot 30 in the auction consists of two letters the UCLA Bruins’ head coach John Wooden hand-wrote in 1968 to his close friend and fellow Hall of Famer Charles “Stretch” Murphy. The sensational contents of the letters detail in frank terms the strained relationship between Wooden and his star player Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar). “These eye-opening letters have to be read to be believed,” said Russek. They will be auctioned as one lot with a $10,000 reserve.

The auction inventory boasts five championship rings, including Robert Horry’s 2005 San Antonio Spurs World Championship ring and Bailey Howell’s 1968 Boston Celtics World Championship ring. On the collegiate side, there’s sure to be strong competition for Lynn Shackelford’s 1966-67 UCLA Bruins NCAA Championship ring.

Several items came directly to Grey Flannel from colorful Class of 2011 inductee Dennis Rodman. Within the selection are: the painting used as cover art for Rodman’s autobiography Bad As I Wanna Be, Rodman’s game-used Bulls sneakers, and an array of awards, including his 1990-91 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award (reserve $2,500). Rodman’s much-publicized fling with Madonna is recalled in Lot 63 – a basketball hand painted with an alluring image of the athlete’s one-time girlfriend in scanty black lingerie.

The highest achievement to which an NBA player can aspire is the Most Valuable Player Award (a k a The Podoloff Trophy). For the first time ever, an NBA MVP Award will make its appearance at auction, when Grey Flannel opens the bidding on the 1972-73 trophy given to former Boston Celtic Dave Cowens. Standing 3ft. 9in. tall, the trophy comes straight from Cowens’ personal collection and is cataloged together with a photo match. This infinitely important award from a Hall of Famer and Top 50 player has been chosen to serve as the featured final lot of the sale and carries a reserve of $10,000.

Grey Flannel’s Friday, Aug. 12, 2011 auction will take place at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, 1000 W. Columbus Ave., Springfield, MA 01105, starting at 1 p.m. Eastern Time. In addition to in-person and phone bidding, Grey Flannel welcomes absentee bids, including by phone (please call to reserve a line) and through its website: www.GreyFlannelAuctions.com. Printed catalogs are free to all registered bidders. The fully illustrated electronic version of the catalog may be viewed online at www.GreyFlannelAuctions.com.

To request a catalog, register as a bidder or obtain further information on any lot in the auction, call 631-288-7800, ext. 223; email gfcsports@aol.com.



1972-73 Dave Cowens Boston Celtics NBA Most Valuable Player Award. Grey Flannel Auctions.




1974 Julius “Dr. J” Erving ABA Eastern Conference All-Stars game-used uniform. Grey Flannel Auctions image.