Posted on: 15 November 2023
Picture Perfect: October 2023
With the night’s drawing in, there’s nothing better than finding something bright and beautiful to lift the gloom, and buyers at Trevanion Auctioneers two-day Fine Art and Antiques specialist October auction were spoilt for choice! Day one saw bidders vying for a beautiful selection of jewellery, with sapphires and diamonds the stars of the show.
Top lot was an 18ct yellow gold sapphire and diamond three stone ring which sold for £3800 plus fees. “This was a beautiful ring with a 3.75 carat cushion cut sapphire set with a baguette cut diamond to each side” commented jewellery valuer Amelia Tomkinson. “It was an exceptional example and so on trend in the current market. A second sapphire ring sold for £2800 plus fees, highlighting the popularity of sapphires at the moment”. Also performing strongly was an early 20th century diamond and pearl set bangle, featuring five old cut diamonds interspersed with rose cut diamonds and cultured pearls, which sold for £3200 plus fees.
Works of art also proved popular on day one of the auction, with a 19th century portrait of a young girl with her pet dog and rabbit winning the hearts of viewers, before selling for £1800 plus fees. “This was a charming example of the genre that offered an unusual composition in a beautiful palette” said fine art valuer Simon Grover. Also selling well was ‘A Quarrel’, a 19th century oil on canvas by Flemish artist Ferdinand Decour, which sold for £1500 plus fees.
A single owner collection of rare ceramics took centre stage on day two of the auction. Comprising Chinese, Hispano Moresque, Iznik and continental examples dating from the 18th century and later, the collection attracted interest from around the world. A Chinese porcelain ‘Wu Shuang Pu’ teapot from the Guangxu period (1875-1908) led the way, selling for £2200 plus fees, closely followed by a pair of 18th century Italian Maiolica tin glazed earthenware olive jars which also sold for £2200 plus fees. Associate director Ashley Jones, who catalogued the pieces said “As soon as I saw this collection, I knew it was something special” commented Ashley. “Each piece offered something of interest to serious collectors, so it was no surprise to see fierce bidding for the most sought after lots. In total the collection made over £10,000 for our delighted client”.
The furniture section concluded the auction, with a pair of George III style tan leather wingback armchairs proving very popular. “These chairs were the epitome of the gentlemen’s club style, and had a lovely patina” commented furniture valuer Ian Woodward. “They attracted an approving stroke of the leather from viewers as they walked past, and it was no surprise to see them sell for £1700 plus fees”. A 19th century George II style walnut, giltwood and gesso wall mirror also reflected strong interest among bidders, selling for £1200 plus fees.
“October has been a great auction for us” commented managing partner Christina Trevanion. “Every section of the auction performed strongly with some wonderful standout lots. It’s so encouraging to see that, even in times of uncertainty, our clients recognise that buying at auction offers access to spectacular and unique pieces. Our November auction is already looking amazing, with some superb jewellery on offer, just in time for Christmas!”
If you have pieces you are looking at selling or are curious to find out what your items could be worth, you can book a free no obligation auction valuation appointment on 01948 800 202 or info@trevanion.com.
