News + Updates – Page 60

Classic Luxury Watches to Polish Your Presence

December 6, 2016

Time marches on, and what better way to measure it than wearing a classic watch – an accessory that polishes your presence. This week we’re presenting a collection of personal luxury timepieces where you’ll find 20th century watches by world-class Swiss, French, and American manufacturers. From Cartier to Rolex, these creators endow watches with boldness and precision.

Topping the list of women’s watches is a classic 18K white gold Cartier Tank watch from the turn of the 21st century. Louis Cartier revolutionized watchmaking design in 1918 when he introduced the Tank watch, which featured a rectangular dial and Roman numerals. This modern version has a quartz movement and is estimated at $6,500-$8,000.

Solid white gold Cartier Tank watch, quartz movement, circa 2000. Estimate: $6,500-$8,000

Also by Cartier is a recent 18K gold curved case watch, which has a $4,000-$5,000 estimate. A pioneer in watchmaking style, Cartier combines utility, luxury, and elegance.

Cartier curved case watch, Model 0211, 18K solid gold, circa 2006. Estimate: $4,000-$5,000

One of the most unusual watches in the auction is a Rolex cover watch from the 1960s. It features an 18K bracelet and a white waffle dial, which is covered by a gold half shell. It is expected to sell for $3,000-$3,500.

Rolex solid 18K gold cover watch, 1960s, 15mm diameter. Estimate: $3,000-$3,500

For more spark in your game there is an 18K Bucherer diamond tennis bracelet watch from the 1960s, which has a $4,000-$5,000 estimate. The Bucherer brand has been family owned since 1888, and the company is renowned for innovation and creativity.

Bucherer diamond tennis bracelet watch, 18K gold case. Estimate: $4,000-$5,000

The auction features 19 pocket watches including an American-made Waltham 14K pink gold oversize box pocket watch. Its heavily engraved case depicts a bridge and castle. Made in 1892, this timepiece is estimated at $3,000-$3,500.

Waltham 14K solid gold oversize box pocket watch, 1892, 55mm in diameter. Estimate: $3,000-$3,500

Much smaller is a 14K gold repeater pocket watch that features stopwatch, quarter-hour and initial plate blank functions.

Repeater pocketwatch, 14K gold, white porcelain dial, 1890s. Estimate: $3,000-$3,500

The auction for this collection of luxury timepieces ends on Sunday, December 11. Bidding starts at just $1 – Click now to bid.

Attention Star Wars Fans: You Could Own Your Very Own Jedi Lightsaber

November 29, 2016

This is not a drill. An epic collection of Star Wars toys is featured in this week’s Jasper52 sale. The Force is strong throughout this entire collection, but we’re going to highlight a few of the standouts. Perhaps you’ll have a few extra presents under your Christmas tree this year.

An authentic Anakin Skywalker Jedi Lightsaber signed by Star Wars creator and director George Lucas is a highly coveted item in the auction. The seller won the lightsaber in a 2002 contest sponsored by British grocery and general merchandise retailer Tesco, and provided documentation from Industrial Light and Magic confirming its authenticity. The lightsaber comes in a clear display case. It is estimated at $6,000-$8,000.

George Lucas-signed Anakin Skywalker Jedi Lightsaber, numbered 1 of 1. Estimate: $6,000-$8,000.

Imagine waking up to the voice of Princess Leia or Luke Skywalker. It is possible with a Star Wars talking alarm clock by Bradley Time. The clock, which has a $200-$300 estimate, is in mint condition in the original box.

Star Wars talking alarm clock by Bradley Time, mint in the box with instructions. Estimate: $200-$300

Relive the Star Wars story in 112 slides with Kenner’s famous Give-A-Show projector, which was re-tooled for the Star Wars franchise. The boxed toy with the slides has a $300-$400 estimate.

Star Wars Give-A-Show Projector, Kenner, Star Wars saga in 112 color slides. Estimate: $300-$400

The Star Wars Empire Strikes Back Rebel Transport Vehicle is a rare model from the series’ second installment. This toy in its original box carries a $1,300-$1,500 estimate.

Star Wars Empire Strikes Back Rebel Transport Vehicle, factory sealed in mint condition. Estimate: $1,300-$1,500

And we know you’re not too old to play with dolls. Another rarity in this auction is a Star Wars Early Bird action figures set from 1978. Still sealed in original clear plastic bags, these figures are expected to forge their way to $40,000-$45,000.

Rare Star Wars Early Bird action figure set, 1978. Estimate: $40,000-$45,000

Interested in all of these and more? The auction contains dozens of Star Wars boxed toys and action figures, many in the original boxes. Find your favorites here and register to bid.

7 Woodblock Prints Where the Beauty of Japan Shines Through

November 28, 2016

The landscapes, traditions and customs of 19th and 20th century Japan are depicted in this stunning collection of Japanese woodblock prints. Whether capturing the serenity of a temple or a moonlit seashore, these images exemplify both fine art and elegant decoration. With many renowned Japanese artists featured in this auction, the true beauty of Japanese landscape and culture shine through, most especially in these 7 prints below:

‘Beauties by River before Cherry Blossoms’ by Kitigawa Utamaro

Kitigawa Utamaro (1753-1806) was one of the most highly regarded practitioners of the ukiyo-e genre of woodblock prints, especially for his portraits of beautiful women, or bijin-ga.

Kitigawa Utamaro, ‘Beauties by River before Cherry Blossoms,’ 1800, Oban design, 10 x 15.5 inches. Estimate: $1,500-$2,000

‘Ogiya Yugiri, Fujiya Izaemon’ by Kitigawa Utamaro

Another highly regarded woodblock print by Kitigawa Utamaro titled Yugiri of the Ogiya and Fujiya Izaemon (Ogiya Yugiri, Fujiya Izaemon) comes from his series ‘The True Feelings Compared.’

Kitigawa Utamaro, ‘ Yugiri of the Ogiya and Fujiya Izaemon (Ogiya Yugiri, Fujiya Izaemon),’ 1798-1800, 9.5 x 14.75 inches. Estimate: $3,500-$4,000

‘Rain’ by Torii Kotondo

Also known for depicting beautiful women – only two centuries later – was Torii Kotondo (1900-1976). He was specially trained in the tradition of kabuki actor portraits, and translated this training into his famous portraits of women.

Torii Kotondo, ‘Rain,’ 1930, 11.75 x 18 inches, published by Sakai and Kawaguchi with first edition seal, numbered 104/200, embossed title in bottom margin. Estimate: $6,000-$8,000

‘Snow at Pond’s Edge’ by Hasui Kawase

Another leading artist in the auction is Hasui Kawase (1883-1957) who became a prominent figure in the shin-hanga (“new prints”) movement of the early 20th century. This movement was influenced by European Impressionism and its imagery focused on landscapes, women, and nature.

Hasui Kawase, ‘Snow at Pond’s Edge,’ 1920, published by Watanabe from the series Mitsubishi Villa at Fukugawa, pre-earthquake edition. Estimate: $5,000-$6,500

‘Evening Snow at Ishonomaki’ by Kawase Hasui

One of the most prominent print designers of the shin-hanga movement was Kawase Hasui (1883-1957), whose series “Collected Views of Japan” is represented in the auction.

Kawase Hasui, ‘Evening Snow at Ishonomaki (Ishinomaki no bosetsu),’ 1935, Oban design 10 x 15.5 inches. Estimate: $2,800-$3,200

‘Cherry Blossoms’ by Toshi Yoshida

Toshi Yoshida (1911-1995) was a Japanese printmaking artist associated with the sosaku-hanga movement, the avant-garde movement of the 1950s-1970s. His woodblock print titled Cherry Blossoms may present an affordable approach to this field of art collecting.

Toshi Yoshida, ‘Cherry Blossoms,’ Oban. Estimate: $150-$200

‘Pagoda in Sunset’ by Ido Masao

Ido Masao is a contemporary Japanese printmaker known for his powerful images of Japanese subjects, including gardens, views of landmarks, theater, and Japanese villages. In this Pagoda in Sunset print from 1980, Masao highlights the beauty of a typical Japanese scene.

Ido Masao, ‘Pagoda in Sunset,’ 1980. Estimate: $150-$200

Don’t miss out on this stunning selection – view the fully illustrated catalog and bid on LiveAuctioneers.

6 Hand-Crafted Artisan Works to Make You Feel At Home

November 21, 2016

We’re going home for the holidays this week and the Americana auction is getting us ready. Hand-crafted works by artisans as well as self-taught artists comprise this delightful sale featuring more than 60 household artworks describe the everyday American experience during the 19th and 20th centuries. Hand-sculpted jugs, well-loved game boards, and vintage advertising all bring back memories of a simpler time.

These six hand-crafted works create a sense of welcome in any home:

19th Century Barber Shop Sign

‘Barber Shop’ sign, Pennsylvania, 1880s, tin and wood. Estimate: $1,100-$1,300

A barbershop trade sign from the days when a shave and a haircut cost “two bits” (25 cents) is just one of several pieces of vintage advertising in the auction.

Lanier Meaders’ Face Jug

One of the most famous names in North Carolina folk art pottery is Lanier Meaders, and the auction features a fine example of the face jugs that earned him and his family national recognition in the latter half of the 20th century.

Lanier Meaders (1917-1998), North Carolina, face jug. Estimate: $900-$1,200

Horse and Rider Whirligig

Folk art carvings are often fun and whimsical. A fine example is a horse and rider whirligig made by an unknown artisan from Ohio in the late 19th century.

Horse and rider whirligig, Ohio, painted wood and metal, late 19th century, included in ‘American Folk Sculpture’ by Robert Bishop. Estimate; $2,800-$4,000

Hand-Carved J.W. Walker Figure

One of our favorites from the sale is a J.W. Walker 2-foot-tall folk art figure of a well-dressed gentleman, which was carved by in early 20th century.

Hand-carved folk art figure, J.W. Walker, early 20th century, original paint, 24 x 4 x 7 inches. Estimate: $650-$1,400. Jasper52 image

Brass Honesty Box

An unusual brass tobacco box is noteworthy. It is sometimes called an “honesty box” because customers would insert a coin and fill their pipes with tobacco. These boxes were found in 19th century pubs.

Pub tobacco box, 19th century, brass, 9 1/2 x 7 x 4 3/4 inches. Estimate: $600-$700

Frog Bank

Although cast-iron mechanical banks were mass-produced, these ingeniously designed toys have earned their place in American folk art. A nice example is original paint is this Frog Bank.

Mechanical Frog Bank, cast iron with original paint, late 1880s, 8 x 3 1/4 x 4 1/4 inches. Estimate: $600-$900

As in all Jasper52 auctions bidding starts at just $1. Take a look at this comforting collection and place your bids.

5 Unique Finds in This Rare Book Auction

November 16, 2016

Rare books and documents dating from the 16th to the 20th century are highlighted in this week’s upcoming book auction. With subjects spanning from design to Jungian psychology, this collection will ignite your imagination and broaden your horizons. Below you’ll find 5 hidden gems in this sale.

**Signed Mountain Interval by Robert Frost**

Poetry lovers will be interested in this 1924 printing of Mountain Interval by Robert Frost, which is signed by the author under his crossed-out name on the title page. The 74-page volume of poetry is estimated at $1,000-$1,500.

‘Mountain Interval,’ signed by poet Robert Frost, published by Henry Holt, 1924 printing (first published in 1916). Estimate: $1,000-$1,500

Freedom and Responsibility in the American Way of Life by Carl Becker

What makes a first edition of Carl Becker’s Freedom and Responsibility in the American Way of Life special are its unique signatures. The book is signed by both American authors and political activists Helen Keller and Clare Booth Luce. Knopf published the hardcover book in 1945. Lacking the dust jacket, this book is estimated at $400-$600.

First edition of ‘Freedom and Responsibility in the American Way of Life,’ by Carl Becker, from the library of and signed by Clare Booth Luce as well as Helen Keller, Knopf, 1945. Estimate: $450-$600

Signature of King Louis XIV

The signature of King Louis XIV of France is found on a document dated 1694. The framed document is also signed by chancellor Michel Le Tellier. It carries a $1,000-$1,250 estimate.

Louis XIV of France signed document, 1694. Estimate: $1,000-$1,250

Native Son by Richard Wright

This first edition Native Son by Richard Wright, published by Harper & Brothers in 1940 will appeal to the modern collectors. It is offered with a $100-$200 estimate.

First edition of ‘Native Son,’ by Richard Wright, Harper & Brothers, 1940. Estimate: $100-$200

Ackermann’s Poetical Magazine

A handsome four-volume set of Ackermann’s Poetical Magazine, 1809 is featured this week. This illustrated set contains the first appearance of the famous poem by William Combe featuring the great Dr. Syntax and his horse Grizzle. The four volumes are bound in half calf over marbled boards with oxblood morocco spine labels.

‘Ackermann’s Poetical Magazine, Dedicated to the Lovers of the Muse by the Agent of the Goddess’ by Rudolph Ackermann, 1809. Estimate: $700-$1,000

Looking for your book treasure? Discover more unique items in this 16th-20th century book auction.

Vintages Watches and Timepieces with Bold Design

November 8, 2016

From Cartier to Rolex, world-class Swiss, French and American timepiece manufacturers have created watches with bold designs and precision movements. Take a look at some of the beautiful pieces featured in this week’s watch auction.

Ranking at the top of the auction estimates is a rare Tiffany & Co. Piaget model 924-C4, in an 18K gold and bracelet. It is one of the thinnest movements made by Piaget. This stunning watch carries a $10,000-$12,000 estimate.

Piaget Tiffany & Co. 18K gold watch, model Piaget/924-C4, serial no. 88490. Estimate: $10,500-$12,000

A LeCoultre eight-day desk clock has attracted much attention. This handsome gold-plated timepiece from the 1960s has a $900-$1,200 estimate.

LeCoultre eight-day desk clock, manual movement, 1960s. Estimate: $900-$1,200

Also by LeCoultre, the renowned Swiss luxury watch and clock maker, is a Memovox alarm watch in a gold-filled case, estimated at $1,000-$1,500.

LeCoultre Memovox alarm watch, circa 1960, gold-filled case. Estimate: $1,000-$1,500

One of the earliest items in the auction is a Zenith wristwatch with bold radium numerals and hands and a sterling silver case. This stylish antique from 1918 carries a $2,000-$2,500 estimate.

Zenith Swiss-made wristwatch, sterling silver case, 1918, porcelain dial. Estimate: $2,000-$2,500

For a modern look, consider the Movado 14K gold watch that has a dial design by Bauhaus-influenced artist Nathan George Horwitt. The watch dial has a simple design defined by a solitary dot at 12, symbolizing the sun at noon. The dial was selected for the permanent design collection of the Museum of Modern Art, New York, in 1960. The single dot dial now appears in many of Movado’s watches.

Movado 14K gold watch with antique white texture dial, original bracelet and buckle. Estimate: $1,000-$1,250

Also noteworthy is a Cartier 18K gold curved case watch, model 0211, which was manufactured in 2006. Certain to be a classic, this ladies watch is estimated at $3,500-$4,000.

Cartier 18K gold curved case watch, Model 0211, circa 2006. Estimate: $3,500-$4,000

View the full catalog of vintage watches and timepieces here. Your wrist deserves some new jewelry.

Religious Icons: Anticipating the Holiday Season

November 3, 2016

Arising from the Russian and Ukranian Orthodox worlds are icons – conventional religious images typically painted on small wooden panels and framed with metal sand castings. These icons carry rich histories and intricate religious symbolism. Often portraits or of scenes from the Bible, these ornate paintings remain faithful to the stories of Christ, the Virgin Mary and the saints.

A fine collection of 27 antique religious icons will be featured in an upcoming Jasper52 sale on Sunday, Nov. 6. Below are some highlights:

Russian icon of Christ Pantocrator

Dating to the 1890s and made using egg tempera and zinc on wood with silver basma, a Moscow hallmark.

Russian icon, ‘Christ Pantocrator,’ Moscow, circa 1890. Estimate: $1,200-$1,500

Icon of St. Nicholas of Myra

Done in egg tempera and gesso with brass oklad, this provincial central Russia icon dates to the 1880s.

‘Nicholas of Myra,’ central Russia, circa 1880. Estimate: $325-$425

Russian Icon Elevation of the True Cross

This depiction of St. Elena and St. Constantine the presenting the True Cross dates to the 1860s. Elevation of the Holy Cross is one of the Great Feasts of the Orthodox Church, celebrated on September 14.

‘Saints Elena and Constantine presenting the True Cross,’ central Russia, circa 1860. Estimate: $400-$600

Russian Icon Savior of Smolensk

This icon shows Christ with his right hand raised in a blessing gesture and his left hand holding a Gospel book. Flanking Him are the Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist; kneeling in prayer at His feet are St. Sergius of Radonezh and the Venerable Barlaam of Khutyn.

‘Savior of Smolensk,’ egg tempera and and gesso on wood with silver-plated brass oklad, central Russia, circa 1880. Estimate: $600-$800

Our Lady of Kazan

Our Lady of Kazan, aka Kazanskay Mother of God, was a holy icon of the highest stature within the Russian Orthodox Church, representing the Virgin Mary as the protector and patroness of the city of Kazan, and a palladium of all of Russia. This fine example done in egg tempera and gesso with silvered oklad dates to the 1880s.

‘Our Lady of Kazan,’ egg tempera and and gesso on wood with silvered oklad, circa 1880. Estimate: $600-$800

See the full Religious Icons auction this week and stay tuned for more unique finds.

Viking Jewelry: Your Perfect Halloween Accessory

October 27, 2016

Vikings and ancient Scandinavian culture and lore have attracted increased interest in recent years. This awareness has led to a fascination with the skillful metalwork of Vikings, both in regard to weaponry and jewelry. Discoveries of the divergent representation of masterful Viking metalwork continue to occur in the UK and other western European countries.

While silver appears to have been the Vikings’ metal of choice, a few gold and bronze objects are featured in an upcoming sale on Jasper52, just in time for halloween. A few highlights below:

A Viking man’s ring in gold overlay has already attracted early bidding. The size 11 3/4 ring dates to A.D. 850-1000 and is expected to sell for up to $200.

Large Viking man’s ring, gold overlay, size 11 3/4, A.D. 850-1000. Estimate: $165-$200

Examples of Viking mythology and their religion can also be seen in ancient jewelry. For example, a pendant shaped in the form of a duck’s foot is thought to have belonged to a 10th century Viking sorcerer. This bronze and silver overlay pendant is estimated to sell for $250-$300.

Viking sorcerer’s pendant, bronze with silver overlay 10th century, 1 inch. Estimate: $200-$250

Vikings metalsmiths were skilled in first creating weapons, armor and tools, but also excelled in making jewelry that has stood the test of time. Those skills are also evident in elaborate jewelry designs that include hearts, crescents and earrings.

The heart had special meaning for Viking warriors as a male symbol for bravery, fortitude, loyalty and integrity, and it embodied the Viking spirit.

Viking heart pendant, gold overlay, A.D. 850-1050. Estimate: $250-$300

Not loving the Viking look? The scope of this auction extends beyond the reach of just the Vikings. For example, a silvered bronze Jerusalem cross pendant, likely worn by a Crusader, is expected to sell for $200-$300. The pendant is actually five crosses in one, which represent the five wounds of Christ. These crosses originated with Godfrey of Bouillon, a Frankish knight known as Baron of the Holy Sepulcher and the Crusader King, ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem following a victorious siege in the First Crusade.

Crusader’s cross pendant, Byzantine pilgrim’s reliquary cross, silvered bronze, A.D. 1000-1200, 1 inch. Estimate: $200-$300

So, will you be dressing up as a viking this halloween season?

Unique Americana Pieces To Transport You Back In Time

October 26, 2016

“Made in the USA” was once a familiar phrase, most often referring to factory-made goods produced by American labor. In an age in which so many products are imported, antique Americana – whether handmade or manufactured – is noteworthy and no longer taken for granted. There is no doubt that you will be obsessing over the more than 72 vintage items have been curated in this week’s Americana auction.

Few forms exemplify Americana more than a figural weather vane. While weather vanes were often produced in factories in the 19th century, many others were the work of local metalsmiths. All are now considered folk art. Several examples have been curated in this sale, including one that depicts a locomotive and caboose marked “St. J & LC” (St. Johnsbury and Lamoille County Railroad), which operated in Vermont and Maine. This unusual weather vane was handmade circa 1920.

Handmade locomotive and caboose weather vane, circa 1920, 14 inches high by 24 inches long. Estimate: $1,000-$1,500

No toy of the 19th century represents the American spirit better than the cast-iron mechanical bank, which demonstrates ingenuity and Yankee thrift. A J. & E. Stevens William Tell bank, which depicts the famous marksman, is featured here.

Rifleman, or William Tell, cast-iron mechanical bank, patented in 1896, 6 3/4 inches high x 10 1/2 inches wide x 4 inches deep. Estimate: $450-$600

Decorated stoneware has not lost its luster among collectors, especially when the hand-decorated design is unusual and nicely executed. A 2-gallon ovoid crock decorated with a large and bold floral design is a fine example. It is marked “William H.E. Warner/West Troy, N.Y.”

Two-gallon decorated stoneware crock, William H.E. Warner, West Troy, N.Y., mid-19th century. Estimate: $300-$400

Collectors of firefighting memorabilia will be interested in an early 20th century fireman’s retirement plaque. The large plywood shield was presented to O.E. Berkan, who served on the Newman (Calif.) Fire Department from 1909 to 1939.

Twentieth century fireman’s commemorative retirement plaque, circa 1940,
shaped plywood, 23 x 23 inches. Estimate: $800-$1,500

Another unique item curated in the sale is an oil on board painting titled “Fish Houses” by Long Island, artist Whitney Hubbard.

Whitney Hubbard, “Fish Houses,” oil on board, carved gilt frame, 14 1/4 x 16 inches framed, 8 inches x 10 inches board. Estimate: $500-$800

Additional handcrafted items in the auction include tramp art boxes, patchwork quilts, hooked rugs, trade signs and whirligigs. Click here to view the full Americana sale and be prepared to be taken on a trip back in time.

Fine Jewelry Auction Sets Stage for Premier Designers’ Gems

October 20, 2016

David Yurman, Georg Jensen, William Spratling, Cartier and Tiffany are a few of the famous names represented in this weekend’s upcoming fine jewelry auction.

Sparkling with fine creations by illustrious designers, this collection offers a kaleidoscope of exquisite pieces, including vintage and estate jewelry. Trends evolve, but diamonds, silver and gold never go out of style. Here are a few of our favorite things… from this collection:

Diamond and sapphire earrings, 1.5 ctw. Estimate: $6,000-$8,000

Topping the list is a pair of diamond and sapphire earrings in 18K white and yellow gold. The diamonds in these flower-shape earrings have a total carat weight of approximately 1.5 to 2.0 carats (est. $6,000-$8,000).

Seven pieces designed by sculptor David Yurman are entered in the auction, including an 18K gold X crossover diamond ring. The size 7 ring features Yurman’s signature cable detail and pave diamonds (0.04 ctw).

David Yurman 18K gold X crossover diamond ring. Estimate: $900-$1,000

A classic example of Mexican silver is a 1930s River of Life cuff bracelet designed by William Spratling, which is estimated at $1,750-$2,000.

William Spratling ‘River of Life’ cuff bracelet, 980 silver. Estimate: $1,750-$2,000

Two postwar Georg Jensen lots will be sold: a 1 1/2-inch sterling silver No. 20 brooch and a pair of sterling silver No. 66 “Bird” earrings by Kristian Mohl-Hansen.

Georg Jensen sterling silver ‘Bird’ earrings by Kristian Mohl-Hansen, with screw-back clasps, 1-inch diameter. Estimate: $500-$600

This 18K white gold and diamond “C” heart ring by Cartier has an estimated value of $4,500-$6,000.

Cartier 18K white gold diamond ‘C’ heart ring, size 5.25. Estimate: $4,500-$6,000.

Just “a little something” from Tiffany’s, the pair of 14K yellow gold full links shown below carry a $200-$300 estimate.

Tiffany & Co 14K yellow gold cuff links, 11.3 grams. Estimate: $200-$300

Also within this unique assortment of more than 100 lots are a Victorian gold conch brooch and a Navajo green turquoise necklace. And the best part? All bidding start at just $1.