On November 19th, collectors will have the opportunity to bid on several notable lots during an auction of European Furniture and Decorative arts set to take place at Bonhams New York. Consisting of over 200 lots the auction encompasses a well-rounded selection of English, French and Continental furniture; 19th century bronze and carved marble figures; Georgian and Russian silver; Russian icons; Gothic and Baroque stone sculpture; as well as Flemish Baroque and Napoleon III tapestries.
Of particular interest to bidders will be a Chinese export lacquer secretary cabinet dating from the 18th century. The upper case features cascading C-scroll molding over a pair of arched pane, molded doors, enclosing short and long drawers about a galleried and fretwork stepped interior. The hinged slant front of the lower case encloses an interior fitted with pigeon holes and short drawers centered by a cupboard flanked by faux book spine compartments. Most likely made for the Danish market, the intricate piece carries an estimate of $125,000-175,000.
An important giltwood Roman Neoclassical suite of seating furniture will also be offered. Dating from the last quarter 18th century, the set is comprised of six armchairs and a settee. The crest of each is carved with a floral garland over a stepped entablature relief of scrolled vines. The curved arms are carved with bellflower and entrelac banding and the legs are carved as entwined bearded dragons rising from a water reed band. Estimated at $40,000 – 60,000, the set is certain to attract strong bidding.
Another excellent collecting opportunity is a Milanese Baroque walnut bookcase dating from the late 17th century. The dentil banded cornice rests above four panel molded doors divided and flanked by ribbon tied swags robustly carved with fruits and flowers. The ornate piece is expected to fetch $30,000 – 50,000.
A fine, late 18th century Beauvais tapestry depicting the Colossus of Rhodes will also be offered. Carrying an estimate of $30,000 – 50,000, the large tapestry measures approximately 114 x 101in (290 x 257cm) and prominently features one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Additionally, two Roman Baroque giltwood consoles will go to block. Each features a faux marble decorated serpentine top above a scrollwork apron centering a pendant shell. The entre lac carved cabriole legs are joined by foliate carved, arched stretchers centering a shell form and end in volute scrolled toes. Dating from the mid-18th century, each is estimated at $30,000-50,000.
A fine George III mahogany clothes press is also sure to draw collectors. The piece is finely and intricately carved with numerous gothic tracery and includes a beautifully pierced frieze arcade with successive leaf tip ogival and pelmet bands. The rest of the body is carved with conforming decoration. Carrying an estimate of $25,000 – 35,000, the stately lot is an exceptional collecting prospect.
Also of interest to collectors will be a 19th century Northern Italian Baroque style “Arte Povera” secretaire. Estimated at $20,000-30,000, the painted case is decorated with colored printed reserves of figures and ruins applied to the surface.
Other lots to note will be a Tabriz palace carpet (est. $20/30,000) as well as a selection of clocks including an Empire parcel-gilt and patinated bronze wall clock with calendar (est. $6/9,000) and a fine, rare Dutch walnut longcase clock with lunar calendar signed by Steven Huygens, Amsterdam, circa 1700 (est. $10,000-12,000).
Viewings will begin at the Madison Avenue galleries on November 15th until the morning of the sale which takes place on November 19th at 1PM EST. The illustrated auction catalog for the sale will be online at www.bonhams.com/us in the weeks preceding the preview and auction. For more information about the department, please visit www.bonhams.com/newyork
