In the Furniture & Decorative Arts section of our July 18th auction, Clars will offer a strong lineup of fine traditional pieces and feature esteemed makers like William Moorcroft and Augustin Heyne.

Antique Persian Bidjar Carpet

Bidjar rugs, woven in northwest Iran, are famed for their dense structure and durability, often referred to as the “iron carpets of Persia.” This antique example displays a rich, jewel-toned palette and classical geometric motifs, balancing tribal tradition with refined technique. Such carpets were long favored in European interiors for their resilience and grandeur.

William Moorcroft

British potter William Moorcroft (1872–1945) earned international acclaim for his hand-decorated art pottery, characterized by deep glazes and naturalistic themes. His flambé pieces, like this undersea-themed vase, utilize complex kiln chemistry to achieve glowing, unpredictable surface effects — no two glazes are alike. Moorcroft’s work was embraced by collectors and royalty alike, and he remains one of the most collected ceramicists of the early 20th century.

Augustin Heyne

A rare and exquisitely preserved tankard by Augustin Heyne, a master silversmith from Breslau (now Wrocław, Poland), this work exemplifies the lavish artistry of early Baroque German metalwork. Parcel-gilt detailing, figural repoussé, and historic inscriptions reflect the ceremonial function of such vessels. It is a remarkable artifact from a time when silver was both status symbol and heirloom.

Florentine Cassone

The cassone, or marriage chest, was one of the most important furnishings in the Italian Renaissance home. Commissioned by wealthy families, they were often adorned with allegorical scenes, coats of arms, and lavish ornamentation. This example, dating to the late Gothic period in Florence, is notable for its early painted decoration and architectural form, marking it as both utilitarian and symbolic. Very few cassoni from this early period survive outside major museum collections, making this piece a rare and culturally significant offering.

Clars is pleased to announce the upcoming Modern Design, Art, Jewelry, & Asian Auction, taking place on Friday, July 18th, beginning at 9:30 AM PDT. This dynamic sale features a curated selection of exceptional works across multiple categories, including modern and traditional furniture, notable fine art, exquisite jewelry, and important Asian works of art.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

In the Furniture section, Clars will offer a strong lineup of both Modern Design and fine traditional pieces. Highlights from the Modern Design selection include a Chan coffee table by Philip and Kelvin Laverne, estimated at $4,000–$6,000; a pair of torchiere floor lamps by French modernist Robert Mallet-Stevens, estimated at $1,200–$1,800; and a striking pair of oxbow armchairs by James Mont, featuring stained walnut frames and faux snakeskin upholstery, expected to bring $2,000–$4,000. Other notable pieces include a Folke Ohlsson for Dux sofa and a Hans Wegner for Getama GEG daybed, each estimated at $1,500–$2,500 and $1,000–$2,000 respectively.

In the realm of fine furniture and decorative arts, Clars will present an antique Persian Bidjar carpet and a flambe-glazed pottery vase by William Moorcroft titled Fish and Jellyfish, both estimated at $4,000–$6,000. Also on offer is an early 17th-century German parcel-gilt silver tankard by Augustin Heyne of Breslau, estimated at $6,000–$8,000, and a rare and important early Florentine polychrome cassone dating to the 14th or 15th century, which carries a presale estimate of $25,000–$35,000.

Fine Art

The Fine Art category will feature a broad range of works from celebrated artists across time periods and styles. Leading the sale is an oil on canvas by Edmund Osthaus (German-American, 1858–1928), depicting three setters in a lush autumn landscape. Osthaus is celebrated for his detailed portrayals of hunting dogs, and this exemplary piece is estimated at $20,000–$40,000.

Also on offer is a tranquil oil landscape by Albert Bierstadt (German-American, 1830–1902), known for his luminous and romantic views of the American West. The painting features rolling hills, a lake, and a pastel sunset sky, and carries an estimate of $10,000–$15,000. From the mid-20th century, a gelatin silver print by Diane Arbus (American, 1923–1971), titled Russian Midget Friends in a Living Room on 100th St., New York City, 1963, will be featured. This intimate and striking photograph is estimated at $7,000–$10,000.

Additional highlights include paintings by John Marshall Gamble, Franz Bischoff, and Edward Mitchell Bannister, as well as prints by Sam Francis and Mel Ramos.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

Clars’ Jewelry & Watches department will present a diverse collection of fine diamonds, colored gemstones, and antique and period pieces, including signed examples from notable makers. Highlights include a natural alexandrite, diamond, and 18k gold ring estimated at $3,000–$5,000; a colored diamond and 18k gold ring estimated at $2,500–$3,500; and a matching bracelet and ring set featuring diamonds in 14k gold, expected to bring $3,500–$4,500.

Also featured are a sapphire, seed pearl, and 14k gold brooch estimated at $1,000–$2,000, and a Victorian mourning locket with a $150–$250 estimate. The sale includes a particularly strong group of Art Deco and Victorian jewelry, reflecting timeless elegance and exquisite craftsmanship.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department is proud to present a refined offering of Chinese works of art that reflect the cultural symbolism and meticulous artistry of traditional craftsmanship. Featured in the sale is a pair of finely embroidered Chinese panels, intricately worked with auspicious imagery including dragons, phoenixes, qilin, lingzhi, and deer — symbols of prosperity, harmony, and longevity. Another standout is a gold-embroidered rustground dragon robe, a richly decorated textile evoking the imperial splendor of Qing dynasty court attire.

Complementing the textiles is a Chinese huanghuali side table, admired for its graceful proportions and deep patina. The auction also includes jade articles, ceramics, scholar’s objects, and additional embroidered textiles, making this a compelling opportunity for collectors of Asian art.

The Warehouse Auction: July 19th

On Saturday, July 19th, Clars will host its Warehouse Auction, offering a diverse selection of items at accessible price points. This sale will feature an eclectic mix of art, prints, photographs, modern and antique furniture, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, and decorative objects. Notable highlights from the Asian Art section will include Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, and folding screens — perfect for collectors looking to add unique, culturally significant pieces to their collections. The jewelry segment will showcase a variety of affordable diamond and silver necklaces, while the broader Warehouse Auction will offer an affordable range of modern and antique furniture, home décor and collectible toys.

This July 18th at Clars we are highlighting works by a variety of artists working in different periods, styles, and mediums, including Edmund Henry Osthaus, Albert Bierstadt, Diane Arbus.

Firstly, we have an oil on canvas by German American artist Edmund Osthaus (1858–1928) that depicts three setters eagerly scouting the autumn countryside for game. Osthaus immigrated to the United States in 1883, settling in northern Ohio and becoming the director of the Toledo Academy of Fine Arts. In the Midwest, Osthaus immersed himself in the raising and showing of gundogs, specifically setters and pointers, the likes of which became his most well-known subject. Osthaus’ true-to-life portrayals of these elegant hunting dogs garnered much demand in the late nineteenth century, attracting patrons in high-profile families including the Morgans and Vanderbilts. The piece in our July auction is exemplary of Osthaus’ work, showing the expert rendering of the dogs’ coats and faces against and idyllic but somewhat foreboding landscape. This painting by Edmund Osthaus is estimated at $20,000-–$40,000.

A second German American painter who made his mark in the United States is Albert Bierstadt (1830–1902), who is known for his dramatic landscapes showing the American West. Bierstadt’s depictions of Yosemite Valley, the Rocky Mountains, and the Pacific Northwest coast are the result of his travels with land surveyor Frederick W. Lander and memoirist Fitz Hugh Ludlow, who each brought Bierstadt from his home in the Hudson River Valley of New York through the rugged terrain of the less-explored West. As a member of the Hudson River School, the influence of Romanticism in Bierstadt’s work is apparent, and his style is often described as Luminism, as it gave a great deal of focus to natural light in his scenes. The oil on canvas in our July auction depicts an unknown landscape of rolling hills with a lake in the foreground under clouds dissipating into a peach-colored sunset. This piece is estimated at $10,000–$15,000.

Jumping forward to the mid-twentieth century, we are featuring a gelatin silver print by groundbreaking American photographer Diane Arbus (1923–1971). Arbus is known for her unvarnished approach to portraiture, often choosing subjects who were considered unusual or out of the mainstream and presenting them in a straightforward yet surreal way. Arbus’ work is now celebrated as helping to expand representation of marginalized people in art as well as being an undeniable influence on photographers who succeeded her. The photograph in our sale this month is titled Russian Midget Friends in a Living Room on 100th St. New York City, 1963, and depicts two women and a man seated in a room dimly lit by natural light, surrounded by their furnishings, with varied expressions on each of their faces. Each of the subjects touches one another in a comforting way, implying familial closeness, and a sense of pride at being photographed is reflected. This piece is estimated at $8,000–$12,000.

Alongside these highlights we are also featuring paintings by John Marshall Gamble, Franz Bischoff, Edward Mitchell Bannister and Peter Max, prints by Sam Francis and Mel Ramos, and much more.

Clars is pleased to announce Fine Curiosities: The Estate of Eddi Van Auken, an extraordinary single-owner auction to be held on Thursday, June 19th. This event features a distinctive and eclectic array of antiques, decorative arts, architectural elements, and folk treasures assembled over decades by the late Eddi Van Auken, a passionate and discerning collector.

Among the standout lots is a remarkable selection of walking canes, featuring examples in Folk Art, French, and Russian styles, each boasting unique handles and craftsmanship. These pieces, estimated between $300–$800, reflect both utility and artistry. Equally intriguing is a group of English ironstone advertising display stands, early commercial relics that today serve as charming decorative objects, estimated at $500–$700.

A centerpiece of the auction is an imposing Belle Époque silvered bronze nine-light chandelier, a grand and luminous statement from turn-of-the-century France. With its elegant form and refined detailing, it is expected to realize between $4,000–$6,000. From the realm of classical architecture come two large carved Corinthian capitals, ideal as sculptural décor or for restoration purposes, with an estimate of $800–$1,200.

Further bridging history and function is a rare clock tower movement, a mechanical marvel with sculptural appeal estimated at $600–$800. For design aficionados, a pair of Art Deco lounge chairs represents 1930s elegance and modernity, also carrying estimates of $600–$800.

Rustic charm is found in a pair of 18th-century French carved walnut cutting boards, rich with patina and history, expected to bring $800–$1,200. A highlight of devotional art in the sale is a Spanish Colonial polychromed wood Santos figure of a woman, distinguished by its expressive carving and colorful finish. It stands as a testament to colonial craftsmanship.

For collectors of luxury objects d’art, a French walking cane with a 22k gold handle adorned with turquoise and amethyst offers a fusion of opulence and curiosity. Estimated at $800–$1,200, it is one of the more refined personal accessories in the sale. Folk Art also takes a whimsical turn with a painted canvas ‘Pin the Tail on the Donkey’ game, a playful and nostalgic piece valued at $400–$600.

Additional curiosities include a collection of factice (dummy) perfume bottles, once used for advertising, now charming collectibles with an estimate of $400–$600. A group of seven Mexican cowrie shell souvenir baskets and a whimsical pair of carved wood heeled clogs continue the theme of cultural craft and novelty, estimated at $400–$600 and $300–$500 respectively.

A collector favorite is a Wemyss Ware ceramic seated pig, hand-painted by Joseph Nekola, a delightful example of Scottish ceramic artistry estimated at $500–$700. For those with a taste for the anatomical and academic, a carved écorché study of a man’s head stands out as a rare and introspective piece, estimated at $300–$500.

Rounding out the collection is a Black Forest carved lindenwood pedestal jardinière, richly detailed and ideal for interior display, estimated at $500–$700, and a notable group of full-size religious figures from French, Spanish Colonial, and Italian traditions, together estimated between $1,200–$2,500. These figures display the range of devotional artistry across continents and centuries.

“This auction reflects the truly personal and passionate collecting style of Eddi Van Auken,” said Suzy Pai, Senior Specialist of Furniture & Decorative Arts at Clars. “Each object tells a story, and together they offer a rare and whimsical journey through centuries of design, craftsmanship, and eccentric beauty.”

The Fine Art department at Clars will present a strong selection of works by acclaimed California and American artists like Maynard Dixon, Percy Gray, Thomas Hill, Karl Schmidt and much more on June 20th.

Among the highlights in California and American Impressionism is Arizona Landscape, a 1944 oil on board by Western master Maynard Dixon (American, 1875–1946), estimated at $15,000–$20,000. Another featured piece is Eucalyptus Trees with Field of Irises, a graceful watercolor by Percy Gray (American, 1869–1952), estimated at $6,000–$9,000. This piece is one of two works by Gray in the sale, including Oaks in a Field, a 1920 watercolor estimated at $4,000–$6,000.

Another important landscape is Hetch Hetchy (California) by Thomas Hill (American, 1829–1908), an oil on board also estimated at $6,000–$9,000. Additional highlights include View from Salmon Creek, an oil on canvas by Emmy Lou Packard (American, 1914–1998), estimated at $5,000–$7,000, and Near the Mouth, an evocative coastal scene by Theodore Wores (American, 1859–1939), estimated at $4,000–$6,000.

The sale also features a strong group of early 20th-century California works, including Cliff and Sunset, both circa 1920 by Karl Schmidt (American, 1890–1962). These vertical oil on linen paintings, each measuring 28 x 13 inches, are estimated at $2,000–$4,000. Additional offerings include Untitled (Landscape with Lake) by Carl Jonnevold (American, 1856–1955), estimated at $600–$900; Untitled (Cows on a Hillside) by Alexis Matthew Podchernikoff (American/Russian, 1886–1933), estimated at $800–$1,200; Desert Landscape by Carl Sammons (American, 1883–1968), estimated at $600–$900; and Untitled (Native Americans by a River) by A.D.M. Cooper (American, 1856–1924), painted in 1916 and estimated at $700–$1,000.

Clars Auctions is pleased to announce its upcoming California & American Fine Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction to be held on Friday, June 20th, beginning at 9:30 AM PDT. This event will feature a curated selection of California and American fine art, exquisite jewelry, and pieces from Asian antiquity.

Fine Art

The Fine Art department will present a strong selection of works by acclaimed California, American, and international artists at the auction. Leading the sale is Kin Nah Zin II #226 by Emmi Whitehorse (American/Navajo, b. 1957), a luminous mixed media on paper work estimated at $20,000–$30,000.

Another standout among the top lots is Boats in the Harbor (Seascape), a 1964 oil on canvas by Sri Lankan artist Senaka Senanayake (b. 1951), carrying an estimate of $15,000–$25,000. Also featured is Arizona Landscape, a 1944 oil on board by Western master Maynard Dixon (American, 1875–1946), estimated at $15,000–$20,000.

Among the highlights in California and American Impressionism is Eucalyptus Trees with Field of Irises, a graceful watercolor by Percy Gray (American, 1869–1952), estimated at $6,000–$9,000. This piece is one of two works by Gray in the sale, including Oaks in a Field, a 1920 watercolor estimated at $4,000–$6,000. Another important landscape is Hetch Hetchy (California) by Thomas Hill (American, 1829–1908), an oil on board also estimated at $6,000–$9,000. Contemporary sculptural work is represented by Duane Flatmo (American, b. 1957), whose signed and stamped mixed metal sculpture Galloping Horse is estimated at $6,000–$9,000.

Additional highlights include View from Salmon Creek, an oil on canvas by Emmy Lou Packard (American, 1914–1998), estimated at $5,000–$7,000, and Near the Mouth, an evocative coastal scene by Theodore Wores (American, 1859–1939), estimated at $4,000–$6,000.

The sale also features a strong group of early 20th-century California works, including Cliff and Sunset, both circa 1920 by Karl Schmidt (American, 1890–1962). These vertical oil on linen paintings, each measuring 28 x 13 inches, are estimated at $2,000–$4,000. Additional offerings include Untitled (Landscape with Lake) by Carl Jonnevold (American, 1856–1955), estimated at $600–$900; Untitled (Cows on a Hillside) by Alexis Matthew Podchernikoff (American/Russian, 1886–1933), estimated at $800–$1,200; Desert Landscape by Carl Sammons (American, 1883–1968), estimated at $600–$900; and Untitled (Native Americans by a River) by A.D.M. Cooper (American, 1856–1924), painted in 1916 and estimated at $700–$1,000.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

The Jewelry Department will offer a dazzling collection of fine jewelry and luxury timepieces. Highlights include a rare Cartier France brooch featuring ruby, diamond, frosted rock crystal, and 18k gold, estimated at $2,000–$3,000. A 4.80 carat diamond ring set in 18k white gold is expected to fetch $4,000–$6,000, alongside an elegant 18k gold strap bracelet with a similar estimate. A classic 18k gold pendant will also be offered, estimated at $300–$500.

This sale presents a wide array of diamonds, colored gemstones, antique and period jewelry, and iconic signed pieces, perfect for both collectors and connoisseurs.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department will present a remarkable collection anchored by a superb Chinese carved cinnabar lacquer circular box and cover from the Qianlong period. Finely carved with a garden scene of songbirds and peony blossoms, and featuring the Eight Buddhist Emblems around its sides, this piece is estimated at $8,000–$12,000.

Another major highlight is an 18th-century Tibetan thangka depicting Vajrabhairava, also known as Yamantaka, revered in Tibetan Buddhism as the destroyer of death. Additional highlights include a Chinese blue and white jar from the Kangxi period, estimated at $3,000–$5,000, and a Chinese huanghuali seal chest from the Qing dynasty, also estimated at $3,000–$5,000.

The Warehouse Auction: June 21st

On Saturday, June 21st, Clars will host its Warehouse Auction, offering a diverse selection of items at accessible price points. This sale will feature an eclectic mix of art, prints, photographs, modern and antique furniture, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, and decorative objects. Notable highlights from the Asian Art section will include Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, and folding screens — perfect for collectors looking to add unique, culturally significant pieces to their collections. The jewelry segment will showcase a variety of affordable diamond and silver necklaces, while the broader Warehouse Sale will offer an affordable range of modern and antique furniture, home décor and collectible toys.

On June 19th, Clars is proud to present the Estate of Eddi Van Auken at our Fine Curiosities Auction. Eddi was a San Francisco Bay Area antique historian, collector, artist, and author who spent over 30 years acquiring, researching, and cataloguing antique walking sticks from around the world.

It was actually an accident in her home that ignited her foray into walking sticks: she fell down the stairs, fractured her tailbone, and needed a cane to walk. Pharmacy canes wouldn’t suffice — and she thought, surely there had to be other, more artistic options. And thus, a collection of unparalleled breadth and quality was born — and continued to grow, long after her injury healed.

Eddi started life as “Ethel Sady,” named for a beloved grandmother and then subsequently renamed Eddi by college friends who felt the name better suited her gorgeous, sassy, and brilliant personality. Despite her petite 5’4″ frame, she lit up any room with her vibrant presence, catching the attention of Wendell “Van” Van Auken, whom she married at 19 (he was 21) before they drove west in a green Corvette to California.

In the Bay Area, Eddi fully developed her extraordinary gift for finding beauty in the everyday and transforming the mundane into the magnificent, designing a family home that showcased her impeccable taste through unexpected combinations of chic, edgy, whimsical, and vintage pieces. As her collection of antique walking sticks grew, she authored a respected compendium on walking sticks titled Vertical Art and was working on a second book, Masterpieces, when she passed away. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Eddi was deeply committed to empowering women across all fields and supported initiatives promoting early lung cancer detection. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome, seen, and appreciated. Eddi passed away peacefully in August 2024, at age 77 from complications arising from metastatic lung cancer, leaving behind a legacy as vibrant as her personality.

On May 15th in our Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork from masters like Raimonds Staprans, Wayne Thiebaud, Joan Brown, Helen Frankenthaler, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Joan Miro, Pablo Picasso, and much more. The auction will begin at 10 AM PDT. Preview May 14th, 1–5 PM PDT.

This May at Clars we are excited to feature a selection of modern and contemporary artwork that will undoubtably appeal to each and every collector. For fans of the Bay Area Figurative Movement, we are highlighting two works on paper by celebrated multimedia artist Joan Brown (American, 1938–1990).

Brown was born in San Francisco and continued to work in the area for her entire life, creating paintings, sculptures, and works on paper that celebrated the Bay Area as much as her own inner life. During her prolific career, Brown evolved stylistically from abstract expressionism to folk art inspired figurative painting and became involved in the highly influential Bay Area Figurative Movement. Brown was married for a period to a fellow member of the movement, Manuel Neri, who introduced her to the model Mary Julia Klimenko, Brown’s muse for the series that includes the two pieces at Clars this month. These two acrylic and charcoal compositions are titled Mary Julia #32, estimated at $8,000–$12,000, and Mary Julia #33, estimated at $8,000–$12,000, and each depicts the subject in two strikingly different settings.

Mary Julia #32 is shown alone in an austere space, likely a chapel, with two narrow stained-glass windows behind her. Her dark hair is topped with a veil that recalls medieval tastes, and her white gown indicates that it is the day of her wedding. She stares wide-eyed at the viewer, holding a champagne glass. Mary Julia #33 is dressed in a green military uniform with her arms behind her back. Next to her is a headless white sculpture, perhaps depicting herself, and a picture of two blackened figures sitting on an easel. Each work is done in Brown’s instantly recognizable faux-naif style, with her signature splashes of color. The two pair themselves with the use of lavender on the wall and windows.

An outstanding piece in the May auction is an oil on canvas painting by Iraqi artist Dia Al-Azzawi (b. 1939). Al-Azzawi studied art in Baghdad, taking inspiration from ancient Middle Eastern mythology as well as Islam and Arabic culture, and worked in the city throughout the mid-20th century.

Al-Azzawi eventually moved out of Iraq in the 1970s and began working abroad, using painting as an outlet for feelings of despair he felt seeing the destruction of his homeland during the wars that plagued the country during the later 20th century. Now living between London and Dubai, Al-Azzawi maintains his status as one of the foremost globally successful Arab artists, and an influential icon in his home country.

The painting in our May Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction is titled Sleeping Bird, estimated at $15,000–$20,000. In its abstraction, the hovering head of a beaked bird appears above an assortment of interpretive shapes below, faithful to distinctive Cubist style and vibrant color palette.