20th Century Design Sale Set For Saturday in Boston

While it may not have the makings of a record-breaking sale, this Saturday’s 20th Century Design Auction at Skinner Auction in Boston promises to offer a wide variety of affordable Arts and Crafts and the possibility of some great deals for beginning collectors.

Nearly all of the first one hundred lots consist of Arts and Crafts metalware, including a large selection of hammered sterling silver. Kalo, Georg Jensen, and Tiffany Studios are well represented, as well as an extensive collection of silver by Henry Petzal (1906-2002). Two early Boston Arts and Crafts silversmiths, Karl Leinonen and Mary Catherine Knight, are also featured. A sterling silver water pitcher by Leinonen (pictured), along with a charger and two enameled silver spoons by Knight, will be included in Saturday’s auction.

While the selection of Arts and Crafts furniture and art pottery stops short of being stellar, it is varied and should offer collectors an opportunity to shop for some unsigned furniture bargains. Among the art pottery in the auction are pieces from Van Briggle, Saturday Evening Girls, Dedham, Grueby and Hampshire.

The sale includes a wide selection of lighting in the Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, including a spectacular Tiffany Studios Poppy table lamp (est. $30,000-$40,000) that is sure to attract a large number of bidders.

For more information on Saturday’s sale, contact Jane Prentiss (508-970-3111) or go to http://www.skinnerinc.com.