MUNICH, Germany – Once again, Hermann Historica boasts a diverse lineup of consignments in its large Autumn Auction, taking place from November 22 to 26. Absentee and Internet live bidding will be available through LiveAuctioneers.
Works of Art, Asiatica, Antiquities
The highly anticipated week full of sales opens on Monday, November 22. More than 900 lots will be offered, including a majestic bowl dating from the reign of Emperor Qianlong (1735-96), one of the most distinguished rulers of the Qing dynasty.
The polychrome bowl is embellished with auspicious symbols. At the center is the shou character, representing longevity, surrounded by bats, which stand for good luck and blessings. It is estimated at €20,000-€40,000.
At first glance, it might seem plain, almost unremarkable; however, on closer inspection, Lot 623, a Taoist ceremonial cup, turns out to be a thoroughly unusual beauty. It bears the inscription “Jinlu Dajiao Tan Yong” (= To be used on the large gold sacrificial altar) on the underside and served none other than the Emperor Jiajing (1522-1566) of China during important sacrificial ceremonies. This altar cup, or tanzhan, is estimated at €7,500-€15,000.
Equally rare and no less spectacular, lot number 771 is a stunning example of archaic sculpture estimated at €100,000-€200,000. The fragment of a stele features the head of a youth wielding a spear. Carved more than 2,500 years ago, it has been consigned from an old Munich collection.
Antique Arms and Armor from all over the world
On Tuesday, November 23, just under 300 lots will be offered in the Antique Arms and Armor from All Over the World sale. Lot number 1029 is a marvellous Perso-Indian shamshir estimated at €40,000-€80,000.
The signed Damascus blade was forged by no less than Asadullaj Isfahani, one of the most skilful swordsmiths of the Orient, while its sumptuous hilt was made by master craftsmen in India. In addition, this 18th-century saber is dedicated to Nadir Shah Afshar, who was often referred to as the “Napoleon of Persia”. The back of the blade is embellished with gold-inlaid inscriptions and the gilt silver hilt sparkles with diamonds and rubies.
Although perhaps less opulent, lot 1209, a South German Langes Messer (which translates to “one-handed sword”) is equally breathtaking. A certain finesse and workmanship were required to join the blade to the hilt. One-handed swords in this superb, courtly quality are otherwise only found in museum collections. Dating from 1530 to 1540, the sword carries an estimate of €12,000-€24,000.
From the same epoch, and just as worthy of note, comes a heavy north Italian helmet of Savoyard type, listed as lot number 1132. Unsurprisingly, this piece of armor is also known as a death’s head helmet. The round eye openings would have made attackers look absolutely terrifying and mysterious on the battlefield, at the same time protecting them from muskets. Dating from around 1600, it is set to rake in €10,000-€20,000.
Fine Antique and Modern Firearms
The procession of fascinating pieces continues on Wednesday, November 24 with the Fine Antique and Modern Firearms auction. Comprising almost 900 lots, it will cause a stir, and not just among gun collectors: Hermann Historica will offer not one, not two, but three pieces by the artisan known as the master of the animal-head scroll.
The first of the trio is a deluxe hunting wheellock rifle with the Austrian master craftsman’s typical lavish carvings: indigenous and exotic wild animals hide among the leafy vines, accompanied by mythical creatures. This firearm is estimated at €35,000-€70,000.
Lot 2069 represents a pair of his deluxe wheellock pistols, adorned with profusely carved floral decor, along with lion’s heads, grotesque masks and silver-inlaid lock plates. The pair of pistols carries an estimate of €20,000-€40,000. Most of his rifles can be found in major international collections, such as the exhibits of the Metropolitan Museum in New York. His works are therefore rarely available on the market.
Orders and Military Collectibles until 1918
The supremely diverse catalog of the Orders and Military Collectibles until 1918 auction showcases amazing pieces and fascinating collections. The more than 500 lots will be sold on Thursday, November 25. Buyers can expect the usual wide range of international insignia.
A Cross 1st class with Oak Leaves of the Finnish Order of the Cross of Liberty is bound to be one of the biggest draws. Awarded fewer than 100 times, this decoration – lot number 3005 – is estimated at €1,000-€2,000.
on the day of her assassination in 1898, est. €12,000-€24,000
Empress Elisabeth of Austria had a penchant for a different type of decoration, namely precious jewels and the finest gowns. So, once again, her fans will delight in the objects in this auction. While the Empress’ sudden demise is something that her devotees would prefer to forget, the intriguing artefact that appears as lot 3138 is having none of it. The right-hand black silk glove worn by the Empress on the day of her brutal assassination in 1898 will be offered with an estimate of €12,000-€24,000.
Hermann Historica is thrilled to announce it will offer in the November 25 auction a highly unusual circa-1906 uniform for a drummer in the Imperial Russian Army as lot number 3178. The gold trim, red cuffs and piping are a particularly effective contrast to the dark cloth. Discerning uniform aficionados are sure to pounce on this outfit, which is estimated at €6,000-€12,000.
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The current rate of exchange is €1 = $1.15.
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