Notable Auction Highlights
The Spring sale saw strong interest across the board.
Lot 42
A W.E.Hill Violin Bow at £4,000.
The key to this was the fact that it is mounted with silver rather than ivory. The varied International bans on ivory have had significant implications for many musical instruments. The ability to travel abroad without worrying that one’s instrument needs a CITIES permit has led to a boost in the value of top-end bows with silver mounts and a corresponding fall for those with ivory.
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Lot 57
A Grand Tour Bronze of Emperor Marcus Aurelius at £7,000.
The market for bronzes is somewhat mixed. Classical works whether period or Grand Tour see strong demand whereas much of the output from the 19th century struggles due to the often sentimental subject matter. This bronze had a particularly good inscribed sienna marble base to add to its appeal.
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Lot 69
A Daum Champignons Vase, £2,800.
Small but potent. Philip came across this vase as part of a routine probate valuation. The depth of the relief work was notably superior to the usual cameo work.
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Lot 119
A Chinese Imperial Ritual Offering Vessel, £11,500.
Extensively researched by Dan. This type of object is so closely associated with the Imperial Court that many Chinese buyers will refrain from bidding in protest at the looting of the Summer Palace by British forces in 1860. The past continues to haunt us with many cultures requesting restitution from the old colonial powers. Nevertheless, this was underbid and sold to a Chinese buyer.
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Lot 250
An Heriz Carpet, £8,500.
Good condition and a fair size, 3.7 x 2.9 metres. Many carpets and rugs have a standard value to the trade so the auction price tends to be driven by interest from private buyers. As with everything else at auction, if two people want it the price will climb. This happened here as two private buyers battled it out to win the carpet that was ‘just the right fit’ for their home.
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Lot 297
Gustave Serrurier-Bovy Art Nouveau Cabinet, £3,200.
An unusual piece, constructed from an unusual timber. The Belgian designer liked to work with red narra wood, traditionally used in Asia and one of the finest cabinet woods available due to its excellent working and finishing qualities. Today the main source of the timber is the Solomon Islands. The cabinet was bought by a Belgian buyer.
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Lot 334
Francis Towne (1740-1816) a Watercolour of Chudley Rock, £7,000.
One highlight from an estate that Joseph dealt with that included works by Joshua Cristall, Thomas Hearne and Albert Goodwin. This one was sold to a London specialist.
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Lot 416
Cressida Campbell (b.1960) – Jacaranda in Blossom.
Sold after the sale.
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Lot 440
A Victorian Novelty Vesta Case, £1,800.
These novelty items remain amongst the most collectable areas within the market for silver. Sent into Clifford as part of an email enquiry the form is different from most where the enamelling is on the inside rather than the outside of the box.
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Lot 527
An Emerald Cut Diamond Ring, £20,000.
Bought by a local businessman as a present for his wife, this 3.30-carat stone attracted huge interest and was probably the most viewed over the three days.
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Auction Results
Summer Fine Sale 2023
Following this outstanding achievement, preparation for Gorringe’s next Fine auction is already underway. We invite you to be a part of what promises to be an exciting Summer Fine Sale auction this June.
