Early, Rare & Unusual Seeing High Bids at Auction

Judging by the way things were kicked off this past Saturday with Rago Arts and Auction Center’s 20th Century Design Auction, it may be safe to say that the early, rare and unusual will be seeing high bids during this Spring auction season.

Several early Rookwood pieces brought in large numbers, including Lot #1 (top photo), a Rookwood Reticulated Black Iris vase with poppies by artist John Dee Wareham, which sold for $31,250. And the Martin Brothers collectors were out in full force snatching up several unusual pieces ranging from $5,000 to $112,500 including Lot #18 a glazed stoneware triple bird tobacco jar, which sold for $112,500.

Though Rago’s most recent auction was heavy in Art Pottery with a few Tiffany lamps and other smalls thrown in the mix, the upcoming Treadway/Toomey 20th Century Art & Design auction (this coming Saturday the 8th) features a wide range of pieces for every collector. Whether you’re looking to fill in some empty holes in your collection or begin a new one, this auction is sure to provide a taste of everything.

From furniture to Art Pottery, metalware to lighting and a little bit of everything in between, your collection will be set — and nearly all lots are projected to come in at very reasonable prices. But again, if it’s the early, rare and unusual you’re searching for, there are a handful of pieces you won’t want to pass by including Lot #312 (middle photo), an important and large Kalo samovar and tray in copper and brass with silver-lined interior, estimated at $10,000 – $15,000. And Lot #503, a wonderful Tiffany Studios hanging fixture with conical shade in a daffodil pattern, estimated at $50,000 – $70,000.

And perhaps my favorite piece from this auction, Lot #71 (bottom photo). A rare and early Stickley Brothers inlaid desk with wood and pewter organic inlaid design on paneled doors, estimated at $7,000 – $9,000.

Get your checkbooks ready as Treadway/Toomey Auctions continues the Spring auction excitement. Your home will thank you.

For more information on Rago Arts and Auction Center, please visit www.ragoarts.com

For more information Treadway/Toomey Auctions, please visit www.treadwaygallery.com