The Curated Object

Auctions Brussels. The Universe of Cleto Munari. "Design Auction of the Century" by Adroyt's Saxon Henry. Pierre Bergé & Associés. The Curated Object

Alessandro Mendini 2003

 

Alessandro Mendini 2006

 

Carlo Scarpa 1977

 

Carlo Scarpa 1978

 

Carlo Scarpa by AndyWarhol 1981

 

Ettore Sottsass 1962-63

 

Ettore Sottsass 1981

 

Ettore Sottsass 2001

 

Meret Oppenheim 1982

 

Mimmo Paladino

 

Palafitte Tably by Cleto Munari

 

Sandro Chia 2006

 

Auction: Cleto Munari, April 24, 2012 

The Curated Object is proud to announce the auction of the Italian master and design legend: Cleto Munari

Those who recognize architectural greatness have already understood Cleto Munari's vision and aligned it with history's masters. So it should come as no surprise that the eye of this Italian architect and designer has amassed a collection of just as historic. 

And to understand the importance and relevance of this monumental event, it's natural to turn to a writer whose words offer the equivalent of her subject's talent. So, we turn to the brilliant Saxon Henry of the cutting-edge social media agnecy for design Adroyt for the full scoop about why this auction is, as she beautifully muses, "the design auction of the century." Happy reading ... and bidding!

For more information please visit: Pierre Bergé & Associés and Adroyt and should you want to bid remotely, please go to:  http://pba.masteredit.com/pba/site/page_120.php?method=getUpcomingAuctions

Auctions Chicago. Wright's Bi-annual Modern Design Sale featuring pieces from Jordan Mozer. The Curated Object

Jordan Mozer
Crispate Couch from the D'Alba Residence, Glencoe
Estimate: $3,000–5,000 

 

Jordan Mozer
pair of lounge chairs from the D'Alba Residence, Glencoe
Estimate: $5,000–7,000 

 

Aschenputtel Lounge and ottoman from the D'Alba Residence, Glencoe
Estimate: $3,000–5,000 

pair of Crispate chairs from the D'Alba Residence, Glencoe
Estimate: $3,000–5,000 

 

Jordan Mozer
pair of FIddlehead lamps from the D'Alba Residence, Glencoe
Estimate: $1,000–1,500 

 

Jordan Mozer
bed from the D'Alba Residence, Glencoe
Estimate: $5,000–7,000 

 

Modern Design Sale (featuring Jordan Mozer)

Preview going on now. Sale March 29, 2012

The 2012 auction season opens with our bi-annual Modern Design sale featuring works by renowned designers of the 20th century. Sale highlights include an impressive selection of American mid-century design with works by George Nelson & Associates, Charles and Ray Eames, Greta Magnusson-Grossman and Isamu Noguchi. Works by Pierre Jeanneret, George Nakashima, Guido Gambone and a collection of designs from a home and interior in Glencoe, Illinois by Jordan Mozer all figure prominently in this auction.

Preview:
22 - 28 March 2012, 10 am - 5 pm
Sundays by appointment

Wright
1440 W Hubbard St
Chicago IL 60642

T  312 563 0020
F  312 563 0040

For more information please visit: Wright 

Auctions Los Angeles. Bonhams Fine European Furniture and Decorative Arts Sale, including Candy and Aaron Spelling, Rod Stewart, philanthropist Iris Cantor, the Estates of Charles Bronson, Dr. Scott Schubach and Warner Bros. The Curated Object

 

Armchair-Bronson

An imposing Continental Rococo walnut metamorphic armchair
probably Anglo-Dutch
incorporating antique and later elements

The embroidered needlework upholstered back, sides and seat decorated with floral ornament, the wing back with scroll cresting above shaped arm supports, raised on cabriole legs, the reclining back and hinged seat opening to a day bed.
height 53in (135cm); width 33 1/2in (85cm); depth of seat 23in (58.5cm)

Est. $2,000-4,000

Property from the Estate of Charles Bronson, Serra Retreat, Malibu and Woodstock, Vermont

 

Commodes-Cantor

A good pair of Louis XV style gilt bronze mounted marquetry inlaid rosewood and kingwood commodes
19th century

The serpentine marble tops above a conforming case decorated with panels of scrolling flora and fauna and fitted with two long drawers, flanked by female busts, raised on angular splayed legs ending in sabots.
height 35 1/2in (90cm); width 51in (130cm); depth 26in (66cm)

Est. $25,000-35,000

Property from the Collection of Mrs. Iris Cantor 

 

BronzeMediciFigure-Stewart

A French patinated bronze figure of Giuliano de Medici
after the model by Michelangelo Buonarotti (Italian, 1475-1564)
late 19th century

The nobleman modeled as a Roman consul, a baton resting in his lap, on marble base, (the base fitted as a lamp).
height of bronze 27in (68.5cm)

Est. $3,000-5,000

Property from the Collection of Rod Stewart 

Secretary-WB

An impressive Chinese Export black and gilt lacquer secretary cabinet
probably made for the Danish market
mid 18th century

The upper case with arched top and cascading C-scroll molding over a pair of arched panel molded doors opening to reveal an arrangement of short and long drawers about a galleried and fretwork stepped interior; the lower case with hinged slant front disclosing an interior fitted with pigeon holes and short drawers centered by a cupboard flanked by faux book spine compartments over two long undulating drawers centered by two conforming short drawers, raised on bracket feet.
height 81in (206cm); width 40in (102cm); depth 26in (66cm)

Est. $60,000-80,000

Property from the Warner Bros. Studios Collection

 

BronzeFigure-Spelling

A patinated bronze figure of Mephistopheles
after a model by Mark Matveevich Antokolsky (Russian, 1843-1902)
late 19th century

Modeled seated on a rocky outcrop, inscribed Antocolsky Paris 1883.
height 33 1/2in (85cm)

Est. $10,000-20,000

Property from the Collection of Candy and Aaron Spelling

Preview: December 2-4, Los Angeles

Auction: December 5, 2011, Los Angeles

Bonhams is pleased to offer Fine European Furniture and Decorative Arts on December 5 in Los Angeles.  The 350-lot sale will feature an array of works for varied tastes and collecting levels from the 16th through the 20th centuries, with a focus on English, French, Italian, Spanish and German properties.  Highlights from the sale include a strong selection of property from the Collections of Candy and Aaron Spelling, Rod Stewart, noted philanthropist Iris Cantor and the Estates of Charles Bronson and the late Dr. Scott Schubach as well as more than 50 lots from the Warner Bros. Studios Collection.

Andrew Jones, Los Angeles Director of European Furniture and Decorative Arts at Bonhams & Butterfields said of the sale, "The winter auction boasts a good balance of 16th-20th century furnishings, porcelain and decorative arts.  Bonhams is delighted to offer collectors a unique opportunity to bid on property from Candy and Aaron Spelling, Rod Stewart, Mrs. Iris Cantor and the Estate of Charles Bronson as well as Warner Bros. Studios."

The highly anticipated winter sale will feature select works from the Collection of noted philanthropist Iris Cantor.  Cantor is chairman and president of the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Foundation. Established in 1978, the Foundation supports the visual arts as well as medical, educational, and cultural institutions and programs in the United States and abroad.

Works of note from the Collection of Iris Cantor include the auction catalogue's cover lot a handsome pair of Louis XV style gilt bronze mounted marquetry inlaid rosewood and kingwood commodes, 19th century (est. $25,000-35,000); an impressive Continental Rococo walnut and oyster veneered secretary bookcase, mid 18th century (est.  $20,000-30,000); an impressive Continental Rococo walnut and oyster veneered secretary bookcase, mid 18th century (est.  $20,000-30,000); an impressive pair of Régence style carved giltwood mirrors (est. $20,000-30,000); a Neoclassical partial paint decorated carved giltwood console, possibly Baltic, fourth quarter 18th century (est. $15,000-20,000) and a stunning Louis XVI style gilt bronze mounted inlaid satinwood bureau à cylindre, Maison Krieger, late 19th century (est. $15,000-20,000).

Luminary highlights from the December sale also include a patinated bronze figure of Mephistopheles, after a model by Mark Matveevich Antokolsky, late 19th century (est. $10,000-20,000) from the Collection of Candy and Aaron Spelling; a Louis XV gilt bronze mounted walnut commode (est. $6,000-8,000) from the Collection of Rod Stewart and an imposing Continental Rococo walnut metamorphic armchair (est. $2,000-4,000) from the Estate of Charles Bronson as well as early and unusual decorations from the Estate of the late Dr. Scott Schubach.

An impressive Chinese Export black and gilt lacquer secretary cabinet highlights the offering from the Warner Bros. Studios Collection (est. $60,000-80,000). Created in the mid 18th century, probably for the Danish market, the cabinet stands an impressive 90 inches high and 40 inches wide. 

Additional works of note from the Warner Bros. Studios Collection include an imposing pair of intricately painted Sèvres style gilt bronze mounted covered urns measuring 48 ¼ inches high, late 19th century (est. $20,000-30,000); a breathtaking Sèvres style porcelain gilt bronze mounted covered urn, signed M. Demonceaux, late 19th century (est. $20,000-30,000); a 5 ft tall French bronze figural torchère after a model by Jean-Alexandre-Joseph Falguière, F. Barbedienne foundry, late 19th century (est. $15,000-20,000); the auction catalogue's back cover lot, a stunningly handsome early Italian carved marble bust of the Apollo Belvedere by Camillo Pacetti, circa 1815 (est. $15,000-20,000); an oversize oil on canvas painting titled "Plowing of the Fields" signed and dated 'E. Debat-Ponsan 1891' (est. $15,000-20,000) and a 4 ft tall Italian carved marble figure of Venus, 19th century (est. $12,000-18,000), among others. 

The illustrated auction catalog is online for review and purchase in the weeks preceding the sale at www.bonhams.com/us.

 

 

 

Events NYC. TONIGHT! Take a Seat-- And Bid on Kenny Scharf's Custom Chair for B&B Italia at UnFramed 2010: Proceeds to Benefit the AIDS Community Research Initiative of America. The Curated Object

 Photo courtesy of B & B Italia, ELLE DECOR and Kenny Scharf 

Take a Seat: Artist Kenny Scharf Partners with B&B Italia for Unframed 2010

By Natalie Fasano

Artistic legend Kenny Scharf-- a fixture of the 1980s New York social scene and a staple of the ubiquitous Warhol set and a close friend of Keith Haring’s-- has partnered with  ELLE DECOR and B&B Italia to present the 20th  installment of the “Unframed” public art auction and fundraiser at the Manhattan House. All proceeds will directly benefit ACRIA (AIDS Community Research Initiative of America), a not for profit organization that supports international HIV awareness, treatment and research initiatives.  The “Unframed” art auction is supported by donations from notable names in the art and design industries; this year, a custom B&B Italia char designed by Sharf will be the piece to come home with. 

Other artists include: Michele Abeles, David Armstrong, William Betts, Lizzi Bougatsos, Slater Bradley, Bruce High Quality Foundation, Todd Cole, Dan Colen, Piero Golia, Adam Helms, Jonah Freeman, Alisha Kerlin, Scott King, Markus Linnenbrink, Lovett/Codagnone, Nate Lowman, Ari Marcopoulos, Nick Mauss, Ryan McNamara, Josephine Meckseper, Wardell Milan, Rashaad Newsome, Dom Nurre, Matt Porter, Sara Rafferty, Richard Renaldi, Mariah Robertson, David Sherry, Erin Shirreff, Janaina Tschape.

Fundraising on the Upper East Side is hardly a new idea, and AIDS has been a favorite cause for years, but this year’s concept for “Unframed” is at once audaciously honest and refreshingly irreverent; a paradigm shift, of sorts. In the 80s AIDS did not yet exist, but “gay cancer” did. It was popularly known as a mysterious ailment of the homosexual community, end of story. In the perverted lens of the media and popular culture,  if you looked sick, you were gay and you probably deserved what was coming to you. Then came 1990, when the “Golden Era” of New York came to an abrupt and tragic end, when  Haring and countless others succumbed to HIV, when "gay cancer" finally became AIDs, and when so-called social morality hit the glass ceiling. The disillusionment of the 1990’s spawned an interesting cultural realization, a microcosm of the global community’s throughout the economic collapse—we learned that everything in life is transitive.  

Scharf has been an artist for decades and he has lived through the nation’s most notable political and social epochs.  To him, life is an experience of consistent animation.  His art features bright, cartoonish figures—from Fred Flinstone to frosted doughnuts—which are either sculpted, spray-painted, brushed and upholstered, depending on Sharf’s mood or creative desire. When asked about his inspiration for the featured B&B chair up for auction, bright yellow with bulging eyes, he simply replied: “most objects to me are animated.  I just put eyeballs on it and it makes it, well, more animated.” Scharf keeps to what he knows—he is an artist. He has witnessed firsthand the effects of many kinds of hubris and appears reluctant to don too many personalities.  He does not position himself as a mentor to young artists, he lives in Brooklyn not because is it the thing to do these days but because he can’t afford to live in Manhattan, he’s not out to save the world and he certainly hasn’t made it his mission to cure AIDs—“I’m only one man,” he explained, “I do what I can.” Sharf appears neither to own a soapbox nor to really care what people think of his work as a reflection of or on him self; instead, he just wants people to think, to have a point of view, and to engage with the world around them. I for one am very interested in having that crazy kissable chair of Sharf’s in my own apartment.  

“Unframed” will take place at the Manhattan House, 200 E 66th St. this evening from 6-9pm. Tickets are $20 and may only be purchased at the door.  Bids will start around $100 and all proceeds will benefit ACRIA. 

WHEN:           TONIGHT!, April 29, 2010 6-9pm

WHERE:          Manhattan House, 200 E. 66th Street

EXPECT:        Leading artists contributINF unique series or editions for sale at unbelievably low prices (starting at $100). Also up for auction this year, a Manhattan chair from B&B Italia that has been customized by famed artist Kenny Scharf. Bidding for the chair begins on artnet.com, with all proceeds going to ACRIA.

BRING:           Tickets are $20 and may be purchased at the door only. All proceeds from the evening will benefit ACRIA.

Auctions/Events Los Angeles. "Blade Runner: Designing the Future" A Panel Discussion Including the Film's Producer Michael Deeley and Designer Syd Mead The 20th Century Decorative Arts Department. Bonhams & Butterfields. The Curated Object

Blade Runner Final Cut Poster, Signed promotional Blade Runner poster from the 2007 "Final Cut" release, Est. $100-200, Property from the Private Collection of Mr. Michael Deeley, Sold to benefit the Los Angeles Conservancy

A promotional polyester and illuminated plexiglass umbrella for the film Blade Runner
fabric transfer-printed with the name BLADE RUNNER and LUMENA.
length 33 1/2in (85cm), Est. $300-500, Property from the Private Collection of Mr. Michael Deeley, Sold to benefit the Los Angeles Conservancy

Copy of the 1982 reissue of Philip K. Dick's "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep" originally published 1968, Est. $50-100, Sold to benefit the LA Conservancy 

Signed copy of "Oblagon: Concepts of Syd Mead" originally published, 1985, Est. $100-200, From the Private Collection of Mr. Syd Mead, Sold to benefit the Los Angeles Conservancy

Signed copy of "Oblagon: Concepts of Syd Mead" originally published, 1985, Est. $100-200, From the Private Collection of Mr. Syd Mead, Sold to benefit the Los Angeles Conservancy

Signed copy of "Oblagon: Concepts of Syd Mead" originally published, 1985, Est. $100-200, From the Private Collection of Mr. Syd Mead, Sold to benefit the Los Angeles Conservancy

Blade Runners, Deer Hunters and Blowing the Bloody Doors Off. (My Life in Cult Movies) 2009 
Pegasus Books LLC, New York NY, 2009.
First Edition
personalized signed copy.Est. $50-100, Property from the Private Collection of Mr. Michael Deeley, Sold to benefit the Los Angeles Conservancy

 

"Blade Runner: Designing the Future" 
A Panel Discussion Including the Film's Producer Michael Deeley and 
Designer Syd Mead

The 20th Century Decorative Arts Department at Bonhams & Butterfields, 
as part of its ongoing design lecture series, is pleased to announce an 
April 15, 2010 panel discussion titled "Blade Runner: Designing the 
Future."  The panel will focus on an exploration of the groundbreaking 
themes and visual design of Director Ridley Scott's 1982 science fiction 
classic, Blade Runner.

The esteemed panel includes the Oscar®-winning Producer of Blade Runner, 
Michael Deeley (The Italian Job, The Man Who Fell to Earth, The Deer 
Hunter) and legendary conceptual and industrial designer, Syd Mead (Star 
Trek: The Motion Picture, Tron, Aliens, 2010) who contributed key set 
and vehicle designs for the film.  Frances Anderton, Host of the "DnA" 
(Design and Architecture) show on National Public Radio (KCRW, Los 
Angeles) and Producer of "To the Point/Which Way LA" will serve as 
moderator for the panel.  Ridley Scott, Oscar®-winning Director of Blade 
Runner and the upcoming Robin Hood (2010), has expressed interest in 
attending the evening's program, schedule permitting.

The event, which will be held at the firm's prestigious Sunset Boulevard 
galleries in Los Angeles, is planned to coincide with the opening of the 
auction preview for the April 20, 20th Century Decorative Arts sale and 
will serve as a fundraiser for the Los Angeles Conservancy. "Blade 
Runner: Designing the Future" is the latest installment of the ongoing 
20th Century design lecture series, which has the goal of engaging the 
design community in a dialogue about related topics. 

"Bonhams & Butterfields is thrilled to present two film industry 
legends, Producer Michael Deeley and designer Syd Mead for a 
design-based discussion of the cult film classic Blade Runner.  As we 
are now only nine years away from the imagined 2019 portrayed in the 
film, we look forward to exploring the relevance of the important 
environmental and social themes of Blade Runner as well as the film's 
continued impact on the design zeitgeist. It will be especially 
interesting to explore the film's prescient vision of a Los Angeles 
future as viewed through the lens of the present day cityscape," said 
Katie Nartonis, Junior Specialist at Bonhams & Butterfields.

The Los Angeles Conservancy is a nonprofit membership organization that 
works through education and advocacy to recognize, preserve, and 
revitalize the historic architectural and cultural resources of Los 
Angeles County.  Key Los Angeles architectural landmarks were used in 
the filming of Blade Runner, such as Frank Lloyd Wright's Ennis House, 
Union Station and the Bradbury Building, which makes the L.A. 
Conservancy a natural fit for this exciting evening.

The panel discussion coincides with the spring 2010 exhibition of 20th 
Century Decorative Arts to be sold at Bonhams & Butterfields on April 
20th.  Featured auction highlights on preview will include a selection 
of lots related to the Blade Runner film, several of which will be sold 
to benefit the Los Angeles Conservancy.  Featured items will include a 
Blade Runner promotional light up Umbrella with illuminated shaft (est. 
$300-500) and signed promotional poster from the Blade Runner "Final 
Cut" release, 2007 ($100-200) from The Personal Collection of Producer 
Michael Deeley; a personalized signed copy of Mr. Deeley's autobiography 
Blade Runners, Deer Hunters, and Blowing the Bloody Doors Off: My Life 
in Cult Movies, 2009 ($50-100); a copy of a 1982 reissue of Philip K. 
Dick's 1968 Science Fiction classic book on which Blade Runner is based, 
Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep, 1968, signed by Mr. Deeley (est. 
$50-100) and a signed copy of Oblagon: Concepts of Syd Mead, 1985, which 
contains 17 pages of Mead's art created for Blade Runner from the 
designer's personal library ($100-200). 

Additional design lots on offer in the April 20th Century sale will 
include a Jack Rogers Hopkins single chair (est. $25,000-35,000); a Paul 
Evans sculpted steel credenza (est. $18,000-25,000); a monumental glazed 
ceramic bowl by Glen Lukens (est. $9,000-12,000) and a George Nakashima 
walnut settee (est. $8,000-12,000) as well as a strong selection of 
Italian and Dutch modernism, among others.

Tickets for "Blade Runner: Designing the Future" are available on a 
"first come, first served" basis and are dependent on securing a 
reserved ticket, with the suggested contribution to the Los Angeles 
Conservancy. Please note that seating is limited. 

Panel Discussion: April 15, 7:30pm Los Angeles

Auction Preview: April 16-18, 12pm-5pm, Los Angeles

Auction: April 20, 10am, Los Angeles

For more information please visit: Bonhams

 

 

 

 

Auctions Los Angeles. Collection of Fine European Clocks to Highlight Auction of Furniture and Decorative Arts. Bonhams & Butterfields in Los Angeles. The Curated Object

Musical Tall Case Clock, 

A parcel gilt paint decorated musical tall case clock 
Percival Mann, London
second half 18th century, 

height 103in (262cm), 

Est. $8,000-12,000

 

Mantel Clock, 

A large Louis XVI style gilt bronze mantel clock 
Beurdeley, Paris
late 19th/early 20th century
height 27in (68.5cm); width 20 3/4in (55cm); depth 9in (23cm) 

Est. $15,000-20,000

Parquetry Regulateur, 

A fine Régence style gilt bronze mounted parquetry régulateur 
circa 1900 

height 103 1/2in (263cm) 

Est. $50,000-70,000

Impressive Mounted Marble Regulateur, 

An impressive and monumental French gilt bronze mounted marble régulateur 
second half 19th century
height approximately 117in (297cm); width 47in (119cm) 

Est. $70,000-90,000

Bulldog, 

A Continental parcel gilt carved wood model of a bulldog 
late 19th century, 

height 23in (58.5cm) 

Est. $1,500-2,000

Marquetry Table, Wick Estate, 

A Louis XVI marquetry inlaid walnut table à écrire 
fourth quarter 18th century, 

height 30in (76cm); width 29 1/2in (75cm); depth 18in (46cm) 

Est. $2,500-3,500 

From the Estate of Charles and Mary Jane Wick

Renaissance Panel, 

A fine late Renaissance pietra dura panel 
first quarter 17th century 

dimensions of panel 16 3/4 x 21 1/4in (42.5 x 54cm) 

Est. $40,000-60,000

Sormani Bureau, 

A Louis XVI style gilt bronze mounted mahogany bureau plat and cartonnier 
Paul Sormani 
third quarter 19th century, 

height of cartonnier 17in (43cm); width 32in (81cm); depth 12in (31cm); height of bureau plat 31in (79cm); width 68in (172cm); depth 36in (91cm) 

Est. $20,000-30,000

No Time Like Springtime 
Collection of Fine European Clocks to Highlight Auction of Furniture and 
Decorative Arts

March 29, 2010

Bonhams & Butterfields is pleased to offer Fine European Furniture and 
Decorative Arts on March 29, 2010 in Los Angeles.  The 500-lot sale will 
offer an array of works for varied tastes and collecting levels from the 
16th through the 20th centuries with a focus on English, French, 
Italian, Spanish and German property.  Highlights from the sale will 
include a strong selection of more than 30 clocks by prominent makers as 
well as property from the Estate of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Z. Wick, Los 
Angeles, California and the University of California, Irvine Libraries.

"The spring auction boasts a good balance of both 18th and 19th century 
furnishings, porcelain and silver as well as a robust offering of tall 
case, mantle and decorative clocks.  Bonhams & Butterfields is delighted 
to offer collectors a unique selection of property from across Europe," 
said Andrew Jones, Los Angeles Director of European Furniture and 
Decorative Arts at Bonhams & Butterfields. 

Among the marquee lots of the fall auction is a fine Regency style gilt 
bronze mounted marquetry regulateur (est. $50,000 - 70,000).  The 
parquetry case is ornamented with gilt bronze and measures a notable 103 
inches in height.  Mechanics include a white enamel dial with Arabic 
hours and twin train movement striking on a bell. 

Also offered in the clock section of the auction is an impressive French 
gilt bronze mounted marble regulateur from the 19th century.  Monumental 
in size, the piece measures 117 inches in height and is estimated to 
bring $70,000-90,000 on March 29th. 

Additional timekeeping highlights include a substantial Louis XVI style 
gilt bronze mantel clock by Beurdeley, Paris, flanked by a putto to 
either side (est. $15,000 - 20,000); a Napoleon III gilt bronze mounted 
marble floor clock boasts a painted orb form dial with stellar ornament 
and alabaster chapters with Roman numerals, third quarter 19th century 
(est. $15,000 - 20,000); a musical movement Dutch Baroque paint 
decorated tall case clock with dial, signed Percival Mann, London, 18th 
century (est. $8,000 - 12,000); a Louis XVI gilt bronze and marble 
mantel clock titled L'Etude et la Philosophie, after the model by 
François Remond, from the late 19th century (est. $4,000-6,000) and a 
cartouche outline Louis XV style gilt bronze clock garniture with twin 
train movement striking on a bell (est. $15,000 - 20,000).  The 
candelabra, which accompany the clock, feature a corresponding 
bacchanalian design.

A strong selection of furniture will also be offered during the March 
29th sale.  Included within the works of note are an Italian late 
Renaissance pietra dura panel (est. $40,000-60,000); an impressive Louis 
XVI style gilt bronze mounted bureau plat and cartonnier by Paul Sormani 
(est. $20,000-30,000); a handsome George II walnut armchair (est. 
$10,000 - 15,000); a Dutch Baroque dowry chest sold to benefit the 
University of California, Irvine Libraries (est. $2,500-3,500) as well 
as a marquetry and parquetry inlaid writing table (est. $2,500-3,500) 
from the Estate of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Z. Wick, Los Angeles, California 
(please see separate press release). 

Additional highlights from the spring auction include a stunning late 
17th/early 18th century tapestry depicting Diana and Actaeon (est. 
$30,000-50,000); a Berlin KPM porcelain oval plaque depicting a young 
fisherman and a mermaid (est. $8,000-10,000); a French export 950 
standard silver partial table service and matching flatware by G. 
Keller, Paris (est. $5,000-7,000); a continental carved ivory candle 
screen depicting a herald blowing a bugle with his horse at his side 
(est. $4,000-6,000) and a playful carved sculpture of a bulldog (est. 
$1,500-2,000).

The illustrated auction catalog will be posted online for review in the 
weeks preceding the auction.   
Auction: March 29, 2010, 10:00am, Los Angeles

For more information please visit: Bonhams

Auctions Los Angeles. Archive related to Frank Lloyd Wright assembled by Professor Henry Russell Hitchcock. Bonhams. The Curated Object

Wright, Ennis, Courtesy of Bonhams & Butterfields

Wright, selection, Courtesy of Bonhams

 & Butterfields

Wright, Millard Interior,Courtesy of Bonhams & Butterfields

Wright, Hollyhock plans, Courtesy of Bonhams & Butterfields

The Wright Stuff 
Exceptional Frank Lloyd Wright Archive

February 14, 2010

Included within the 400-lot Bonhams & Butterfields Fine Books & 
Manuscripts auction on February 14, 2010 is a massive archive of 
photographs, correspondence and select building plans related to 
groundbreaking architect and designer Frank Lloyd Wright.  Assembled by 
Professor Henry Russell Hitchcock for the landmark 1942 treatise In the 
Nature of Materials, which he co-authored with Wright, the archive 
offers an exceptionally rich documentation of the architect's work 
including notes for images of many buildings that no longer survive 
(est. $20,000-30,000). 

Highlights from the archive include approximately 600 rare black and 
white photographs of Wright's buildings and interiors; many derive from 
the architect's own photographic collection.  Several of the interior 
photographs show the original furnishings and the houses in daily use - 
papers strewn across desks, tables set for dinner, and toys on the 
floor.  Families can be seen standing proudly in front of their new 
homes.  A number of photographs record buildings that no longer survive, 
including one of Wright's own homes, Taliesin I (burnt beyond 
recognition in 1914), Midway Gardens in Chicago (destroyed in 1929), and 
the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo (demolished in 1968).

Although the most of the photographers are uncredited, several have been 
identified as from Oak Park, IL, and noted architectural photographers 
Samuel H. Gottscho, Jamaica, NY, and G.E. Kidder-Smith of New York, have 
been identified.  Several of the images boast annotations on verso and 
are either stamped "Property of F.LL. Wright" or inscribed "FLLW." 

Hitchcock and Wright's book, In the Nature of Materials, was intended to 
be a sort of ex post facto catalogue of the 1940 Museum of Modern Art 
(MoMA) exhibition Frank Lloyd Wright: American Architect - described by 
the man himself as "the show to end all shows."  The Great Depression, 
Wright's prolonged absence from the country, and his turbulent personal 
life had resulted in a dearth of commissions for the first half of the 1930s.  At the time of the MoMA show, he was still at the opening of his 
"second career," which had been revived by the Kaufmann house 
(Fallingwater) and the Johnson office building.

In the Nature of Materials, published in 1942, was swiftly acknowledged 
as a standard work on Wright and remained in print for nearly a quarter 
century. Hitchcock had risen to prominence through the 1920s and early 
30s, cementing his reputation with the 1932 International Style show at 
the MoMA, co-curated with the architect Philip Johnson.  The year after 
the book's publication, Wright was commissioned to design a permanent 
home for the art collection of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation - a 
project that occupied him for some fifteen years but resulted in one of 
the most instantly recognizable buildings in the world.

The February 14, 2010 auction is timed to coincide with the California 
ABAA Book Fair, held this year in Los Angeles, and will be simulcast 
from the firm's Sunset Boulevard location to the San Francisco gallery. 
For Fair attendees, Bonhams & Butterfields has gathered together a wide 
variety of highlights in literature and Americana as well as a fine 
selection of imprints on Hawaii and the South Pacific.

The illustrated catalogue will be available online for review and 
purchase.

For more information please visit: Bonhams

Auctions. The Montblanc Sale of the Century. Bonhams & Butterfields. The Curated Object

Lot70-Jefferson, MONTBLANC: Thomas Jefferson Limited Edition America's Signatures for Freedom Series Fountain Pen, This octagonal pen is decorated with solid gold rings bearing engravings from Monticello as well as petrified wood inlays representing Jefferson's commitment to nature and his home. The clip bears a mandarin garnet and is engraved with a portrait of Jefferson. Set includes a leather-bound volume: Thomas Jefferson Illuminated. 5 ½" (14 cm) Medium 18 K rhodium plated gold nib engraved with words "America's Signatures for Freedom." Comes in large glass presentation box with bound volume and all original packaging and papers. Limited Edition: 47/50. Est. $21,000-24,000

Lots89 Axis Mundi-88 Opera-87 Airbus MONTBLANC: Axis Mundi Limited Edition 101 Fountain PenMontblanc honors the Taipei 101, the new emblem of Taiwan. The white gold skeleton of this pen echoes the form of the famous structure. The joints are decorated with diamonds, and larger diamonds circle the cone. 5 7/8" (14.9 cm). 18 K rhodium plated gold nib engraved with a Chinese dragon. Black lacquered presentation box with all original packaging and papers. Limited Edition: 054/101. Est. $15,000-25,000 

Lot66-Black Widow Skeleton MONTBLANC: Magical Black Widow Skeleton Limited Edition 88 Fountain Pen, One of the most sought after Montblanc pens, the Black Widow is encased by a web of white gold, featuring a filigree spider studded with black diamonds on the clip. In some countries, the spider is seen as a symbol of luck, and, in honor of the lucky spider, whose figure 8 shaped body symbolizes infinity, Montblanc produced only 88 of these beautiful pens.  5 5/8" (14.4 cm) Platinum plated medium 18 K gold nib. Black lacquered presentation box with all original packaging and papers. Limited Edition: 54/88. Est. $18,000-24,000 

Lots67-68- White House Pen Left  4th July Pen MONTBLANC: White House Limited Edition 43 Fountain Pen (blue pen on left) Inspired by the architecture of the White House, this skeleton pen is made from blue transparent precious resin and striped with white gold columns evoking the columns of the White House. An eagle with sapphire eyes adorns the base of the clip, which is decorated at the tip with a third sapphire. 5 ¾" (14.6 cm). Medium rhodium plated 18 K gold nib with engraving of Presidential seal. Blue lacquered presentation box with all original packaging and papers. Limited Edition: 36/43. Est. $10,000-15,000

Soulmakers MONTBLANC: Soulmakers for 100 years Limited Edition Fountain Pen, This limited edition fountain pen was released in 2006 to celebrate Montblanc's 100th anniversary. The pen is made from solid white gold with white lacquer stripes and an engraved op art pattern formed by overlapping Montblanc stars. The cap top is set with a large diamond cut in the shape of the Montblanc symbol. 5 ¾"(14.6 cm). Medium 18 K rhodium plated two-toned gold nib with engraving of Mont Blanc and the words "100 years Montblanc." Complete with black presentation box and all original packaging and papers. Limited Edition: 054/100. Est. $10,000-15,000 

 

The Montblanc Sale of the Century: Unique Writing Instruments to be Offered during Bonhams & Butterfields First Auction Dedicated to this Prestigious Manufacturer 

February 15, 2010

International auctioneers, Bonhams & Butterfields, are pleased to announce the company's first auction exclusively dedicated to modern Montblanc writing instruments on February 15, 2010.  The sale will contain more than 130 lots of exceptional pens with a focus on the Writer's Editions, Patron of the Arts and 333 series, as well as several of the more limited items including the highly sought after Black Widow and Diego Rivera editions mostly coming from the Ron Renaud Collection. 

Offered on President's Day, and timed to coincide with the annual Los Angeles International Pen Show, the auction will offer examples from several of the major Montblanc categories including rarely seen pens, like the George Washington and Texas Ateliers prives Skeleton in solid 

gold. In addition to the preview at Bonhams & Butterfields' Sunset Boulevard galleries on February 12-14, select highlights will also be on display at the Los Angeles International Pen Show in Manhattan Beach, California on February 11-14. 

 

"This auction is undoubtedly one of the largest and most complete offerings of modern Montblanc writing instruments to be publicly offered in recent years.  It will bring together some of the finest contemporary examples of refined craftsmanship and technical mastery in calligraphic 

instruments created by the leading masters in this field.  The auction will include several rare and highly sought after examples, several of which have not been available in the secondary market before this offering," said Rick Propas, Fine Pens Consultant for Bonhams & Butterfields. 

Highlighting the auction is one of the most sought after Montblanc pens ever produced, the Magical Black Widow Skeleton limited edition 88 fountain Pen (est. $18,000-24,000).  Encased by a web of white gold, the instrument features a filigree spider studded with black diamonds on the clip.  In some countries, the spider is seen as a symbol of luck, and, in honor of the lucky spider, whose figure 8 shaped body symbolizes infinity, Montblanc produced only 88 of these beautiful pens. 

Also highly popular with collectors is the Diego Rivera limited edition 70 fountain pen (est. $12,000-18,000).  Rivera was a master of the mural and world-famous for his revolutionary politics and his revival of Mexican fresco art.  Montblanc celebrates his legacy with a pen crafted 

from white gold with a partial black lacquer finish in Aztec design. The unusual red-orange translucent cap is overlaid with a white gold windowpane with elaborate Mexican etchings and a black sapphire set in the clip. 

In honor of President's Day, the sale will also feature several examples of Presidential pens.  Inspired by the world leaders and their iconic residences, these pens have been painstakingly created from a variety of resin and precious materials designed to evoke the spirit of freedom. 

From the America's Signature Series the Thomas Jefferson fountain pen is constructed in an unusual octagonal shape in homage to his Virginia home, Monticello (est. $21,000-24,000).  Inspired by third President of the United States, the instrument is decorated with solid gold rings as well as petrified wood inlays that represent Jefferson's commitment to nature and Monticello.  The clip bears a mandarin garnet and is engraved with a portrait of the former President. 

Additional Presidential themed fountain pens on offer during the  February auction will include the limited edition White House 43.  Made  from blue transparent precious resin and striped with white gold columns evoking the exterior of the White House, the instrument is adorned with 

an eagle and bears the Presidential seal (est. $10/15,000). 

Montblanc pays tribute to Asian culture with the Axis Mundi limited edition 101 fountain pen.  The white gold skeleton of this pen echoes the form of the famous structure, which is said to express a point of connection between sky and earth where the four compass directions meet. 

Adorned with diamonds of various sizes, the pen is expected to bring  $15,000-25,000. 

In many cultures the number 8 has magical or religious significance. Its shape is a symbol of the infinite, but nowhere does it have such  strong meaning as Asia, where it is associated with good fortune.  The Fortune Number 88 limited edition fountain pen has an unusual clear body 

encased in red gold lattice-work design of interlocking "8" shape (est.  $4,000-6,000).  Eight rings circle the cap and cone, while the clip is  decorated with a diamond studded number "8". 

The sale also features the distinguished Soulmakers for 100 years limited edition fountain pen (est. $10,000-15,000).  According to Montblanc, the instrument is named in honor of the ancient belief, which states: "if a person touched an object, that object would form a bond with part of their soul."  This exquisite instrument was designed to celebrate Montblanc's centennial anniversary in 2006.  Made from solid white gold with white lacquer stripes, the pen boasts an engraved 'Op Art' pattern formed by overlapping Montblanc stars along with the words "100 years Montblanc".  The highly sought after example is topped with an unusual cap, which boasts a large diamond cut into the shape of the Montblanc logo. 

Included with the centennial celebration pens, The Juilliard Centennial Celebration limited edition example will also be featured (est. $6,000-8,000).  Since 1905, the Juilliard School has trained the foremost dancers, musicians and performing artists in America.  In this pen Montblanc has commemorated the School's 100 years of excellence with this black lacquered white gold fountain pen. The clip is in the shape of a "J" while the cap ring is engraved with "Juilliard School, 100 years."  The gold nib boasts engraved image of Augustus D. Juilliard, whose philanthropy built the renowned conservatory of dance, music, and theatre in New York City that bears his name. 

 

The illustrated catalog for this sale will be available online for review and purchase at www.bonhams.com/us in the weeks preceding the sale.

 

 

 

Auction. The Estate of Elizabeth Colyear Vincent, Newport Beach, CA. Bonhams & Butterfields. The Curated Object

A Continental gilt bronze mounted onyx urn, late 19th century, Est. $18,000-25,000 

An imposing pair of Louis XVI style gilt bronze floor torcheres, late 19th century, Est. $25,000-35,000

A Louis XV style gilt-bronze mounted and white marble top mahogany center table, by Francois Linke, Est. $7,000-9,000

A pair of French inlaid mahogany bowfront corner cupboards, by Paul Sormani, Est. 15,000-20,000  

An unusually large Berlin (KPM) porcelain table casket, late 19th century, Est. $6,000-8,000  

Estate of Noted Orange County Philanthropist Elizabeth Colyear Vincent at Bonhams & Butterfields in November

Bonhams & Butterfields is pleased to announce the November 8, 2009 auction of The Estate of Elizabeth Colyear Vincent, Newport Beach, California.  Assembled over the course of a lifetime, the Estate features a diverse group of 18th and 19th century works with a focus on the Northern European aesthetic. 

The 300-lot Los Angeles-based sale will feature pieces from François Linke and Paul Sormani, KPM and Meissen porcelain, beautiful examples of gilt bronze and lighting fixtures as well as a discerning selection of furniture, decorative and fine arts from across Europe. 

Elizabeth Colyear Vincent was born in Los Angeles on May 1914. A fifth generation Californian, she attended the Westlake School, Los Angeles, California and The University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, California.  Vincent was an astute businesswoman with a passion for the arts, boating and her family. 

Over the past 30-years, Vincent lived in Newport Beach, California on prestigious Harbor Island surrounded by the rare and unique items she spent a lifetime collecting.  During the course of her lifetime, she enriched many lives through her generous philanthropic endeavors, which included numerous Southern California charities as well as the performing arts. 

According to Andrew Jones, Los Angeles Director of European Furniture and Decorative Arts at Bonhams & Butterfields: "The Estate of Elizabeth Colyear Vincent represents a lifetime of passionate collecting.  Vincent's distinct style and appreciation of 18th and 19th century Europe is clearly reflected within the offering."

The marquee lot of the sale is an imposing pair of Louis XVI style gilt bronze floor torcheres, late 19th century (est. $25,000-35,000).  The eighteen light torcheres, each with a standard in the form of an urn draped in swags issuing a multitude of scrolling candle arms, measure 7 ½ feet tall.

According to Jones, "The Louis XVI style gilt bronze floor torcheres are two of the most impressive examples of floor lighting to be offered at public auction in recent years.  Bonhams & Butterfields is delighted to present these items along with many rare and unique works to the public in November."

The sale will also feature a group of 19th Century works of art by renowned craftsmen François Linke, Paul Sormani and Emmanuel-Joseph Zwiener.  Notable highlights include a Louis XV style gilt bronze mounted marble topped mahogany center table by Francois Linke (est. $7000-9000); a pair of French inlaid mahogany bowfront corner cupboards by Paul Sormani (est. 15,000-20,000) and a Louis XV style gilt bronze mounted marquetry side cupboard by Emmanuel-Joseph Zwiener, late 19th century (est. $15,000-20,000).

Additional highlights from the Estate of Elizabeth Colyear Vincent will include a grand Venetian micromosaic and acid etched mirror (est. $20,000-30,000); a Continental gilt bronze mounted onyx urn, late 19th century (est. $18,000-25,000); a monumental Vienna style porcelain covered urn on stand, late 19th century (est. 12,000-18,000); a collection of Meissen porcelain figures, mostly late 19th century (estimates range from $1,000-15,000); an Italian carved marble figure of Ruth by P. Bazzanti, late 19th century (est. 10,000-15,000) and a Berlin (KPM) porcelain table casket, late 19th century (est. $6,000-8,000) as well a selection of European paintings.

Auction: November 8, 2009 at 12pm, Los Angeles
Preview: November 6-8, 2009, Los Angeles

For more information please visit: Bonhams

Auctions. Design of the Century: Works by Lloyd Wright Highlight 20th Century Furniture & Decorative Arts Auction. Bonhams & Butterfields. The Curated Object

Dale Chihuly (American, born 1941)

Cobalt Blue and Copper Ruby four-piece Seaform with turquoise lip wraps, 1985
blown glass,
largest piece signed Chihuly 1985.
dimensions of largest 7in x 21½in x 18in (17.8cm x 54.6cm x 45.7cm)

Est. $15,000-20,000

A Lloyd Wright walnut hexagonal dining table

circa 1963
with two leaves.
height 28¼in (71.7cm); width (closed) 5ft (153cm); depth 4ft 5in (134.5cm); width of leaves 24in (61cm)

Est. $3,000-5,000 

Glen Lukens (American, 1887-1967)

Low Bowl
hand built earthenware with turquoise glaze,
signed GLEN LUKENS.
diameter 6 7/8in (17.5cm)

Est. $2,000-3,000

Stow and Davis
A Stow & Davis walnut and stainless steel desk
designed by M.F. Harty, 1970s
with smoked glass inset writing surface, bears Stow & Davis metal plaque inside drawer.
height 28in (71.1cm); length 7ft 10½in (240cm); depth 37in (94cm)
Est. $4,000 - 6,000 

 

A Group of three Luckhaus Studio gelatin silver prints

Richard J. Neutra: Albert Lewin house, Santa Monica, CA
comprising three exterior views, Luckhaus blind stamp to lower right, architect and studio ink stamp with penciled notations on verso.
Unframed.
dimensions 7 3/8in x 9¼in and 8in x 10in (18.7cm x 23.5cm and 20.3cm x 25.4cm)

Est. $1,000-1,500

Design of the Century: Works by Lloyd Wright Highlight 20th Century Furniture & Decorative Arts Auction at Bonhams & Butterfields in April 2009

Spring '09 sale features strong examples of Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern & works by Contemporary Studio artists. Bonhams & Butterfields' spring 2009 auction of 20th Century Decorative Arts, to be held in Los Angeles on April 6th, features a diverse group of works spanning a century of design.  The works on offer will highlight the full range of 20th century artistic output, from the important early years through the modern period.  

The firm is pleased to offer an important collection of furniture designed in 1963 for the Bowler House, Palos Verdes, California by Lloyd Wright, son of Frank Lloyd Wright.  Also known as the 'Bird of Paradise' residence because of the steeply pitched roof, the home was commissioned by John and Jeanne Bowler.  The couple had seen photographs of Frank Lloyd Wright's Palo Alto, CA commission for the Hanna House (1935-37), and agreed that with its indoor-outdoor spaces, open floor plan and integration of building and site, that project was the type of house they too wanted.  The pair was happy to find Lloyd Wright had worked on the Hanna house with his father.  A noted architect in his own right, Lloyd Wright made several important contributions to the Southern California architectural landscape throughout his career.  In addition to the Bowler House, his many admired commissions also include The Wayfarer's Chapel in Portuguese Bend on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. 

Lloyd Wright designed the Bowler residence with the same 'feel' of the Hanna House -- including the spatial flow, but for this home, he used concrete, Santa Maria stone and blue corrugated fiberglass in the construction.  He also designed angled furniture for each room, echoing the angles of the house design.  Production of the house and furniture was supervised by contractor and owner John Bowler.  The house has appeared on the silver screen - it was the location for scenes in Steve Martin's LA Story in 1991. 

Included in the Bowler House collection to be offered at auction in April 2009 are the hexagonal walnut dining table (est. $3,000/5,000), twelve velvet and brass dining chairs (est. $2,500/3,500), pairs of club chairs, and an ottoman (est. $1,500/2,500); as well as various side tables and coffee tables.

Los Angeles preview events are scheduled for April 3-5 in Bonhams & Butterfields' Sunset Blvd. gallery.  The auction's illustrated catalog will be online for review and purchase in the weeks preceding the sale at www.bonhams.com/us.

Posted by Joanne Molina

Auctions. Fine European Furniture and Decorative Arts, Los Angeles. Bonhams & Butterfields. The Curated Object

Jensen

A Danish sterling compote
Georg Jensen, Copenhagen, circa 1940
# 264B, with contemporary presentation inscription on underside of base

Height: 12in; diameter: 12 1/4in.
(51 oz. 2 dwts.)

Est. $10,000-15,000

From the Estate of David Weisbart

Cresson

An assembled set of fourteen Louis XV carved beechwood chaises and two fauteuils

twelve stamped M. Cresson
mid 18th century and later
Each with cartouche shaped molded back surmounted by a foliate cresting over a shaped seat with serpentine carved rail, raised on cabriole legs, two with padded and molded scrolled arms, twelve stamped on back seat rail M. CRESSON.
height of fauteuil 36in (92cm); width 26in (66cm); depth 21in (53cm); height of side chair 36in (92cm); width 22in (56cm); depth 17in (43cm)

Est. $30,000-50,000

From the Estate of Caroline Singleton

Vuitton trunk

A Louis Vuitton trunk

early 20th century
Covered in monogram canvas and bound with wooden slats, paper label to the interior, stamped serial number 133390, with fitted trays and canvas cover.
dimensions 21 x 40 x 21in (53 x 1.01m x 53cm)

Est. $3,000-5,000

Property from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Los Angeles, CA

Jacob 

A pair of Louis XVI style paint decorated bergères

stamped G. Jacob
late 18th century
Each with rectangular upholstered panel back within rope twist borders, above padded arm supports and loose cushion seat, raised on stop fluted tapered legs, stamped cTo.
height 36 3/4in (93cm); width 29in (74cm); depth 24in (61cm)

Est. $8,000-12,000

From the Estate of Caroline Singleton

Boulard

A Louis XV carved beechwood bergère

stamped J B Boulard
second half 18th century
The arched upholstered panel back within molded borders above padded arm supports and loose cushion seat, raised on cabriole legs, stamped J B BOULARD.
height 35in (89cm); width 28 1/4in (72cm); depth 25 1/2in (65cm)

Est. $4,000-6,000

From the Estate of Caroline Singleton

Property from Noted Southern California Estates

to be Offered March 30, 2009

Furnishings & decorative arts from the Estate of Caroline Singleton 

highlight Bonhams & Butterfields auction

Fine European furniture and decorative arts come to auction at Bonhams & Butterfields in Los Angeles on March 30, 2009.  The 500-lot sale will offer an array of works for varied tastes and collecting levels and will showcase pieces from the Roman period through the 20th century.  Highlighting the sale will be property from the Estate of Caroline Singleton, wife of Henry E. Singleton, the pioneering co-founder of Teledyne, Inc. According to Andrew Jones, Director of the auctioneer's European Furniture and Decorative Arts Department, "The spring auction boasts a good balance of both 18th and 19th century works by prominent makers such as G Jacob, J. B. Boulard, E. Meunier, Francois Linke and Henry Dasson.  Bonhams & Butterfields is pleased to offer such distinctive works to the public on March 30."

Born on a cattle ranch in Haslet, Texas in 1916, Henry Singleton attended the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.  He later earned his Masters and Doctorial degrees in Electrical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, MA.  He married Caroline in Boston in 1942 and the two moved to Los Angeles in 1951.  They raised five children and eventually became grandparents of four. 

Known for his keen business acumen, Henry gained a reputation in the business world as one of the nation's leading corporate merger experts.  He co-founded Teledyne, Inc in 1960 and led the Los Angeles-based conglomerate for more than three decades.

Outside of business, Henry and Caroline had an interest in architecture and design.  They had their first home built in 1959, commissioning famed architect Richard Neutra.The couple's second home was built in 1970 by the noted architect Wallace Neff -- it was the last major work completed by Neff before his death.  That home is featured in Wallace Neff: Architect of California's Golden Age.  The couple furnished their homes with antiques created by some of the noted French craftsman of the 18th and 19th centuries, including Cresson, Jaccob and Boutard. 

Together, Henry and Caroline also collected mid-century works and early continental pieces.  They mixed items by Eames with Swedish neoclassical -- creating a home environment that was both comfortable and reflective of their keen artistic eye. After Henry retired, he and Caroline returned to his cattle ranching roots, acquiring more than one-million acres in New Mexico and California, making him one of the largest land owners in America.  This was not just a hobby, as these were working ranches dating back 400-years.  The Singletons were active in their local communities, lending their support to the 4-H Club and FFA Livestock programs, as well, establishing a rodeo scholarship at New Mexico State University(NMSU) and supporting the Georgia O'Keefe Museum in Santa Fe, NM.

Henry and Caroline were married for 57 years.  Mr. Singleton passed away in 1999.  To honor the memory of her late husband, Caroline established the Henry E. Singleton Neuro-Diagnostic and Treatment Center in the new Ronald Regan UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles.  She continued to be an active participant in all of their philanthropies until her death in 2007.

Highlights from the Estate of Caroline Singleton include: an exquisite set of fourteen Louis XV carved beechwood dining chairs, stamped M Cresson, mid-18th century (est.  $30/50,000); a handsome pair of Louis XVI paint decorated bergeres, stamped G Jacob, late 18th century (est. $8/12,000); a Louis XV carved beechwood bergere, stamped J. B. Boutard, 18th century (est. $4/6,000); an early 18th century walnut commode (est. $5/7,000) and a stunning Regency mahogany writing table, in the manner of Gillows (est. $6/8,000).  Additional highlights from the Estate will be offered throughout Bonhams & Butterfields' spring auction season, with property to be included within a Fine Asian Works of Art sale and the monthly LA-based Sunset Estate sales.

In addition to property from the Singleton Estate, the spring auction will also include works from the Collection of Dr. Scott Schubach; Property from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Countess Veronika Henckel von Donnersmarck and from the Estates of the late Nigel Davis and David Weisbart, producer of the 1955 classic film Rebel without a Cause. 

Other highlights will include a George III Anglo-Indian ivory and horn chess set, made in Vizagapatam in the early part of the 19th century (est. $5/7,000); an impressive 19th century Continental carved ivory tankard, surmounted by a bear finial, carved in the round with a hunting scene (est. $5/7,000); a Louis XV rosewood and kingwood commode from the third quarter 18th century, stamped JME and LEFEVRE twice by Louis Michel Lefevre maitre in 1749 (est. $8/12,000) and an untouched late 18th century George III green lacquered tall case clock decorated with chinoiserie figures in landscapes by Thomas Reynolds, Oxford, England (est. $4/6,000). 

Sale previews will open to the pubic March 27-March 30, or by appointment.  For Los Angeles clients, private appointments will be available in addition to regular preview hours.  The auction starts 10am on Monday, March 30th.

For more information please visit: Bonhams  

Posted by Joanne Molina