‘Cottage’ orchestrion music machine a big hit for Moran’s

MONROVIA, Calif. – Moran’s Dec. 15 Traditional Collector auction was a resounding success with strong prices achieved for items consigned from several important Southern California collections. From music boxes to Chinese objects to vehicles, Moran’s Traditional Collector auction brought out buyers from around the world vying for the fresh-to-market finds. Absentee and Internet live bidding was available through LiveAuctioneers.

Moran’s presentation of the Ralph and Gloria Schack music box collection charmed buyers. An M. Welte & Sohn style 3 “Cottage” orchestrion was the top lot of the auction with a determined phone bidder taking home the rare machine for $237,500 (above) All prices realized include Moran’s 25% buyer’s premium. A gorgeous music box by famed maker Charles Bruguier caused a stir when it hit the block, flying over its high estimate to bring $28,750. A wonderful Mermod Freres Swiss music box on cabinet sold to a determined floor bidder for $40,000 (below).

Works from the Kelton Foundation collection resonated with buyers across the globe. A beautifully made teapot by Lao Yan Qing He made of silver with a gold handle caused a bidding war when it hit the block, selling to an online bidder for $13,750.

An American-made quadrant backstaff by John Dupee was one of several nautical instruments in the auction and sold for $8,750. A ship portrait by Antonio Jacobsen is a gorgeous work by the artist and was snapped up by a phone bidder for $10,000.

Moran’s included fine selections of decorative art and vehicles consigned from local Southern California estates. Two Buccellati sterling silver and agate tazzas made a charming addition to the sale and sold for $3,750.

An amazing 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190SL turned heads at the preview and zoomed to an astounding $118,750 price at the block.

A wonderfully made Italian marquetry commode stole the hearts of everyone on preview and brought $4,062 at the block.

Moran’s is starting the 2020 auction year off with a slate of fine auctions beginning with Studio Fine Art and Studio Decorative Art auctions in January.