DECORATIVE INTERIORS AND RELIGIOUS ARTIFACTS SALE HIGHLIGHTS
In our last few blog posts we’ve focused our attention on our upcoming Irish Country Interiors Sale on February 26th. We’d like now to switch our (and your) attention to the Decorative Interiors and Religious Artifacts Sale on February 27th which includes many exquisite pieces of interior wares and genuine religious items that we’re expecting massive interest in.
In advance of next week’s sale, we’ve taken some time to go through all 680 fantastic lots and have somehow filtered them down to just ten of what we think are our most highlightable highlights.
1. Lot 92 – Very fine Set of fourteen 19th. C. gilt and carved panelled Stations of the Cross (60 cm H x 44 cm W)
Probably the most exquisite lot going to auction on the 27th is this incredible set of the fourteen stations of the cross. Hand-painted on tin, embossed and framed in carved and gilt wood, these magnificently preserved pieces date to the 19th century and we expect worldwide interest to follow them into auction. They go under the hammer with an estimate of €2500-€4500.
2. Lot 98 – Pair of red leather mahogany upholstered library chairs
Lot 98 is a pair of stunning red leather mahogany library chairs with buttoned seats. These chairs are the epitome of sophistication. From the deep colour of the upholstered leather, to the elegant curved mahogany legs and even the slight signs of wear on the armrests telling stories of rested arms upon them, this pair is truly gorgeous and would make a very tasteful addition to any home. These go to auction with an estimate of €800-€1200.
3. Lot 152 – Pair of composition Bagetelle urns on stands decorated with acanthus leaf and rams horned masks (153 cm H x 38 cm W)
This pair of imitation Bagatelle Urns are one of the most exceptional lots going up on the 27th. Modeled after the urns from the Chateau de Bagatelle in Paris and on the design by Claude Ballin, they come on stands and are decorated with acanthus leaf and rams horned masks. Measuring over a metre and a half tall, they make a prominent statement and will add a serious splash of class to the space they end up reigning over. They go to sale with an estimate of €1200-€1800.
4. Lot 216 – Pair of mahogany and brass bound spiral peat buckets
The fireplace is the heart of the room. The centre point to which eyes are drawn. And we think it should be accordingly beautiful. This pair of mahogany and brass bound spiral peat buckets leave no room for improvement. In addition to their good looks, they make a very practical fireplace ornament with their grand stature (66 cm H X 48 cm W) meaning the lucky buyer won’t be braving the cold for firewood very often. They are being sold as a pair with an estimate of €2000-€4000.
5. Lot 233 – Inlaid walnut davenport in the 19th. C.style with tooled leather top made by reknowned Robinson brothers of Milltown Co Cavan made in 1970’s (92 cm h x 62 cm w x 56 cm d)
The Robinson Brothers, carpenters, from Milltown in Co. Cavan were widely renowned for their exquisite wood works. Considered some of the last “masters” of their traditional trade, Tom-Joe, Charles and Michael are no longer with us. Having conducted the executors sale of the Robinsons estate in 2013, we are familiar with the expert work of these local craftsmen and now we are lucky enough to have been consigned one more piece made by them. This stunning davenport with a tooled leather top is a fine example of the detail and workmanship that is typical of all the pieces made by the Robinson brothers. It boasts four internal drawers, four large outer drawers and additional storage in its top compartment. This is a truly one-off piece that you will not see again and goes to auction with an estimate of €400-€600.
6. Lot 291 – Set of four opaline hanging lights.
Opaline, also known as milk glass, was very popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Though it can be manipulated into various colours, there is a serenity in white opaline. These hanging lights appear almost like sliced lemons when viewed from underneath and simply scream elegance. Being sold as a set of four, they go to auction with an estimate of €300-€500.
7. Lot 238 – 19th. C. silver plate Sanctuary Lamp (130 cm H)
Lot 238 is another exceptional piece of religious symbolism; a 19th C. Silver plated sanctuary lamp. These lamps bear great significance in the Catholic Church, burning before the tabernacle (where the Eucharist is stored) to signify the presence of Christ. This particular piece is exceptionally ornate, hanging at a total length of 130 cm and goes to sale with high interest expected. Estimate of €1000-€2000
8. Lot 289 – 19th C. Elm Refectory Table (246 cm L x 78 cm W)
“What’s in-vogue today, particularly among young buyers, is definitely the big rustic table,” says auctioneer, Victor in advance of his upcoming sales. This 19th C. refectory table is the kind of thing he’s talking about. Built from elm, this table is beautifully cut, beautifully finished and sprawls for almost 2.5m. The thick trestle legs and stretcher provide a matchless durability that has seen this table through many years and many meals, likely in a communal setting, and now we are proud to present it to you for auction on the 27th with an estimate price of €1000-€1500.
9. Lot 8 – Good quality 19th. C. pine hand painted cupboard the single door decorated with floral panels { 189 cm H X 105 cm W X 36 cm D }
Though pine was one of the cheaper and more accessible woods from which to craft furniture in the 19th century, it is not very often that we come across pieces so ornate as lot 8. We’d love to call it “adorable,” but we fear that might take away from the stunning intricate hand-painted floral design that decorates the single door and adjacent panels. It lacks a door handle, rather it is opened with a traditional brass key and features built in wooden hangers inside. We love this piece for its uniqueness, quality and fine condition. It goes to sale with an estimate of €400-€500
10. Lot 271 – Persian Rug (300 cm L x 197 cm W)
The sale on February 27th will feature no less than seven stunning Persian rugs. We couldn’t possibly favour one over another but we’ll start by just showing you lot 271. There’s really a lot to love about a Persian rug. Originating in the Middle East, they are woven by hand using natural wool, silk and vegetable dye, meaning no two will ever be the same. They are vibrant and rich, bringing warmth and a sense of lushness to a home. In addition, the craftsmanship that goes into the manufacture of these fabulous pieces gives them a resilience that sees them passed through generations. A Persian rug is more than just a rug. It is a work of art and an investment that will serve and spark conversations for years to come. This one measures at an impressive 300 cm x 197 cm and hits the auction block with an estimate of €300-€500.
The Victor Mee Auctions Decorative Interiors and Religious Artifacts Sale takes place on Thursday February 27th at 5 pm. Viewing continues from 10 am on Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th.
