November 5th auction goes with a bang
AN auction of antiques held on fireworks night went with a bang – with bidding on two lots in particular soaring upwards to break the £1,000 barrier.
The settle – one of the last lots of the day to go under the hammer – featured a heavily carved head and St Mark’s lion, while the arms were supported by carved dragons above a lift-up seat, and the carved base and feet were also ornately carved.
Meanwhile, an 18th century oak dresser with three tiers and iron hooks made £1,000 on the nose.
The surprise of the day was the £400 achieved by a couple of books: volumes 1 and 2 of EV Lucas’ ‘Edwin Austin Abbey, Royal Academician, a Record of His Life and Work’.
The American artist was an illustrator of great repute, famed for his interpretation of Shakespeare scenes and the official painting of the Coronation of King Edward VII in 1902, which now hangs in Buckingham Palace.
The 200 illustrations may have helped the bidding far surpass its £50 to £80 estimate, although the handwritten inscription by the artist’s wife, Mrs E A Abbey, dated 19 August 1924, also added interest.
Also worthy of note was the sale of a copper copper – those large Victorian tubs used for washing clothes, which today make attractive patio planters. The most recent example, the third sold by Moore Allen this year, made £320.
Auctioneers have advised anyone with a copper copper to sell now while the objects are fashionable enough to achieve a good price at auction.
For more information about buying and selling art at auction, log on to http://www.mooreallen.co.uk
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| An ornate 19th century oak settle in the gothic revival taste, which sold for £1,150 |