Maine folk art carving. John McInnis Auctioneers and Appraisers image.
“We are pleased to offer outstanding examples of art and antiques in categories that include clocks, folk art, furniture jewelry, paintings, Asian art, silver and more,” said auctioneer John McInnis. “There is really something for everyone. For example we will sell a pair of Newburyport folk art carvings of Peace and Plenty, originally carved, circa 1800, by ship figurehead carver Joseph Wilson for the famous mansion belonging to Lord Timothy Dexter. It is believed that these figures were blown down in the 19th century during a hurricane. Only a few of examples of his work are known to exist and his work is on display at the Smithsonian. Each carved lady in the sale is nearly 5 feet in length,” said McInnis. “The figures were covered in several coats of overpaint. After a close examination and tests to remove the 20th century enamel at the owner’s request, the restorer was able to reveal most of the original polychromeware colors and surface.”
The estimate for Peace and Plenty is between $40,000 and $60,000.
Folk art collectors will also be interested in the Opus Eagle carving by Bernier the Lumberman of Biddeford, Maine. This 36-inch carved and painted eagle was featured in Magazine Antiques in 2010. The highly regarded artist Ronald Bernier (1873-1852) worked primarily during the 1930s and 1940s.
Another highlight in the art category would be the oil-on-board painting Seated Men by Korean artist Park Soo-Keun (1914-1965). This significant work by the artist was discovered on the West Coast in a thrift shop. It has an estimate of $120,000-$160,000.
An important 18th century Philadelphia Chippendale tall case clock with elaborate carvings will attract national attention. The outstanding clock that came from a Florida estate is expected to bring between $20,000 and $40,000.
An enormous Japanese Meiji Period bronze palace urn with figures of dragons and foo dogs surrounded by a mountainous landscape is eye catching. The urn is expected to bring between $12,000 and $18,000.
One of the more unusual lots in the sale is a monumental pair of elephant tusks, 87 1/2 inches long. They are mounted in 1960s vintage custom wrought iron bases with cast and relief bronze elephant plaques. They are expected to sell for between $22,000 and $28,000.
There is a 17 percent buyers premium, including 2 percent discount for cash, or check, and 6.25 percent Massachusetts sales tax. For further information, call the gallery at 800-822-1417.
ADDITIONAL LOTS OF NOTE
Maine folk art carving. John McInnis Auctioneers and Appraisers image. Important 18th century Philadelphia tall-case clock. John McInnis Auctioneers and Appraisers image. Rare pair of Newburyport folk art carvings of Peace and Plenty. John McInnis Auctioneers and Appraisers image. Meiji urn and elephant tusks. John McInnis Auctioneers and Appraisers image.
