Art auction house launches uncatalogued ‘basics’ sales

OMNI Fine Art Auctioneers has taken the coming of spring as a cue for the third component of its auction divisions. Its latest concept, Omni Basics, will introduce no-frills, uncatalogued auctions where everything must be sold and there will be no reserve prices.

Warren Scheuer of Omni says the goods on offer at these auctions will be a mix of furnishings, art and collectables, with a focus on domestic and contemporary items.

“While the sales will be unfussy and uncomplicated, making auction items accessible to all, the displays of goods on the auction floor will be undeniably attractive,” he says.

The auctions, which will be held in the basement of Omni’s Newlands premises, will initially be held monthly but are expected to develop into fortnightly events.

Omni Basics was launched as a contrast to Omni’s Premium auction – a quarterly catalogued auction that focuses on high-end items and offers a long pre-auction viewing period – and the monthly Select auction, which is also a catalogued auction, but with a step down in the price and rarity of items offered.

“We recognised the demand for simple goods, to be sold simply, and have responded to the Cape market’s wants and needs,” says Scheuer.

“As our name suggests, our aim is to provide items of interest and appeal that cater to all at our auctions.”

Scheuer believes the Omni Basics auctions will develop into “a wonderful destination for dealers, decorators, collectors and firsttime buyers”.

The inaugural sale will include an array of collectables, such as cutlery and crockery, ornaments and glassware. “Medals, coins, stamps and vintage paper currency will also be available, as will a vast quantity of paintings and prints. The home furnishings will include collections of mirrors and lamps.” Scheuer says items will need to be consigned a week in advance of the auction, and there will only be a single day of viewing prior to each sale. Unlike the Premium and Select auction events, there will be no online or telephone bidding at the Basics sales. “However, all three types of Omni auctions will take place on Tuesdays, making Tuesday an Omni day on the auction calendar,” he says. The inaugural Omni Basics sale will be held at the auction house at 9 Hemlock Street, Newlands, at 10.30am on Tuesday. The auction items may be viewed from 10am to 6pm at the same venue on Monday. For details call Omni Fine Art Auctioneers on 021 671 4497 or email info@omni.co.za or www. omni.co.za.

Part of the collection of Roman to 20th century coins and medals, both local and international, which will be sold without reserve in Omni’s no-frills, uncatalogued Basics auction.

A sample of the 20th century paper monies of local and international origin which will be available at the inaugural Omni Basics sale, as will the this Royal Doulton ‘Bunnykins’ Child’s Bowl, far left.