Western Morning News (Saturday)
Unusual items are sought after
The Truro Auction Centre holds its next specialised Antique and Picture Sale on Friday, December 11 – a live online auction via the internet which seems to work extremely well in these current difficult times. The busy central Cornwall auctioneers have had to adapt to so many changes throughout 2020 and have kept extremely busy throughout the year embracing exactly what buyers and sellers require to keep them safe in somewhat uncertain times. The interest in antiques and collectables has really picked up since the initial lockdown period and unusual items seem highly prized.
One of the most impressive lots in the next auction is the 19th century Japanese carved mahogany desk decorated all over with dragons and scrolls.
This ornate example has numerous pigeon holes and small drawers and is accompanied by a matching chair with dragon decorated arched back and expects £500-700. For collectors of early furniture is the early 18th century oak six-plank coffer with crudely carved front in almost untouched original condition measuring 38” long.
Ideal for lockdown or a quiet Christmas period would be the Riley slate bed snooker table converting to a mahogany dining table measuring 6’ x 3’.
An unusual bronze figure of a standing hare wearing hunting clothing on oval base measures 4½” high and should sell for between £100-150; a bottle of 1958 Da Silva Port could be a good Christmas present, as could be a 1920s table croquet game with miniature mallets and balls.
Modern pictures seem highly prized at present and a good abstract oil painting by local artist, Tony Giles depicts a mine scene and carries a pre-sale estimate of £300-400 whilst a more traditional watercolour by John RK Duff portrays a shepherd boy with a flock of sheep at £200300.
An abundance of jewellery and watches always attracts collectors and enthusiasts with a 9ct gold gentleman’s pocket by Waltham in plain case should easily find a buyer.
The Truro Auction Centre is currently accepting entries for all sales including the next specialised Collectors Sale for the New Year. For more information call on 01209 822266 or email on mroweauctioneer@aol.com.