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Giant eyeglasses focus of attention in NHADA auction Feb. 25

Tom Hoepf
Tom Hoepf
eyeglasses
Giant pair of eyeglasses, weathered original gilt surface, copper with glass inserts and iron hanger, 24in x 12in x 1½in, late 19th century. Estimate: $3,500-$4,000. Jasper52 image.

NEW YORK – Leave it to the New Hampshire Antique Dealers Association to gather astonishing treasures from across America and beyond, which will be presented in a Jasper52 online auction on Thursday, Feb. 25. Museum-quality pieces among the nearly 400 lots offered include a rare Pennsylvania Mennonite quilt and a giant pair of eyeglasses that likely served as a trade sign. Bid absentee or live online through LiveAuctioneers.

Made of copper, the 2-foot-wide frame of the eyeglasses retains its original gilt surface. The glass inserts are tinted blue. Found in the Chicago area, the eyeglasses date to circa 1880-1890. In excellent condition with no repairs, the eyeglasses are expected to sell for $3,500-$4,000.

The late 19th century Mennonite quilt is from Lancaster County, Pa. The monumental scale of the pattern is striking. The symmetry was achieved by folding fabric in four, then cutting out the intricate design and sewing it on a background. The technique’s resemblance to the Pennsylvania folk craft of paper cutting lends the term scherenschnitte to this quilt type. A nearly identical quilt is in the collection of the International Quilt Study Center Museum at the University of Nebraska. A third example is in the Carolyn Miller collection, and research is being undertaken now to determine any possible connection among them. The example offered in the auction has the most detail – individual birds nestle among the foliate thistle-like motifs. The condition of the materials is strong; the only issue is a couple of faded areas. It has a $2,500-$3,000 estimate.

eyeglasses
Scherenschnitte quilt, Mennonite, late 19th century, Lancaster County, Pa. origin, cotton, 84in square. Estimate: $2,500-$3,000. Jasper52 image.

In unused condition is a hooked rug made in the 1870s. Its striking geometric pattern is enhanced by strong colors of the material (est. $2,500-$3,500).

eyeglasses
Geometric hooked rug in unused condition, circa 1870, 52in x 37in. Estimate: $2,500-$3,500. Jasper52 image.

From the Netherlands is a fine Delft oval plaque that has a raised self-framed polychrome scroll and flower border that complements the ware’s customary tin-enamel blue glaze. This rare find from the 18th century has a $5,000-$6,000 estimate.

eyeglasses
Delftware plaque with a raised self-framed polychrome scroll and flower border, circa 1760, 14¼in x 12½in. Estimate: $5,000-$6,000. Jasper52 image.

Of more recent vintage is a Marx windup motorcycle in working order. The tin lithograph toy retains its original illustrated box (est. $750-$1,200).

eyeglasses
Tin police motorcycle, Louis Marx, with original box and key. Estimate: $750-$1,200. Jasper52 image.

The entire spectrum of Americana and folk art is represented in this NHADA auction, which will be held on Thursday, Feb. 25, starting at 6 p.m. EST.

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