Clars’ September Gallery Auction will provide an elevated experience, bringing together an Important Arts & Crafts Collection that features distinguished designers.

The Arts & Crafts section is led by a Dirk Van Erp hammered copper and mica rivet-base table lamp, featuring a vented shade, original mica, and closed-box mark with the ghost of D’Arcy Gaw. The 19-inch-high lamp is estimated at $8,000–$10,000.

A Tiffany Studios Favrile lamp, measuring 17.5 inches high, carries an estimate of $5,000–$7,000. A fascinating piece of Panama-Pacific International Exposition history is represented by a cased presentation box of fitted Novagems, given to Edwin J. Symmes in 1915 in appreciation of his architectural contributions to the exhibition’s “Joy Zone.” The boxed set is expected to achieve $5,000–$7,000.

The collection continues with an early L. & J.G. Stickley three-door bookcase, #331½, Onondaga Shops, estimated at $4,000–$6,000, and a Gustav Stickley spindle Morris chair, estimated at $2,500–$3,500. Collectors will also find an impressive group of works associated with Dirk Van Erp and Elizabeth D’Arcy Gaw, including two hammered copper “warty” bowls, as well as an Arts and Crafts Wilder Bentley leaded glass door, original to the Frederickson House in Berkeley, California, estimated at $2,000–$4,000.

Furniture highlights include a Gustav Stickley nine-drawer chest, estimated at $2,000–$5,000; a Gustav Stickley Eastwood, New York, bookcase, estimated at $1,500–$2,500; a Gustav Stickley model 65 dining table, estimated at $1,500–$2,500; and a Gustav Stickley leather-top lamp table, also estimated at $1,500–$2,500. Several Stickley pieces carry provenance from Isak Lindenauer, San Francisco.

Ceramics include a rare Rookwood Kataro Shirayamadani iris-decorated vase, estimated at $2,000–$3,000, and a rare and massive Teco Pottery floor vase with steel-blue matte glaze, estimated at $2,000–$4,000. A hand-hammered copper and mica floor lamp rounds out the lighting selection at $2,000–$4,000.

The Important September Fine Art Auction on September 17th, beginning 10 AM PDT at Clars, brings together an exceptional selection of American, European, Latin American, modern, and contemporary art, encompassing paintings, works on paper, prints, photography, and sculpture.

Beginning in California, we have an oil on canvas by Granville Redmond (American, 1871–1935) dating to 1910. Depicting a shepherd guiding his flock through a hilly landscape, the canvas, titled Heading Home, bursts with shades of green lit by the sun and dappled with shadow. The idyllic scene is exemplary of Redmond’s work — depicting the California hills lush with wildflowers. However, the work at Clars this month is notable as one of Redmond’s larger canvases. The vast scene shows the artist’s mastery of texture and light and is not to be missed in this month’s auction. This piece is estimated at $50,000–$70,000.

Another important California scene featured this September is an oil on canvas board by E. Charlton Fortune (American, 1885–1969) titled Unloading the Catch, Monterey. Fortune was a pioneer among female artists, studying with notable painters such as William Merritt Chase and traveling to Europe while developing her unique style. Fortune’s time in Paris influenced her technique as she was exposed to the work of the French Impressionists and Post-Impressionists of the early 20th century.

Upon returning to her family home in Monterey, she used the loose brushwork and bright palettes of her peers in Europe to depict the landscapes and towns of coastal California. Unloading the Catch, Monterey, is a harbor scene in which small fishing boats gather by a dock, bustling with activity while gently floating on the calm, blue waters. Fortune’s harbor scenes are among the most prized in her oeuvre, and fetch some of the highest prices at auction for California Impressionist art. This piece is estimated at $40,000–$60,000.

The auction presents an especially compelling pair of works by renowned Dutch artist M.C. Escher, both with remarkable provenance. Ascending and Descending, 1960, a signed lithograph from an edition of 31/108, is estimated at $30,000–$50,000; while Möbius Strip II (Red Ants), 1963, a signed color woodcut on Japan paper, is estimated at $20,000–$40,000. Both works descended from the collection of Professor Kurt Servos of Menlo Park, California, who purchased the works directly from Escher and was a friend of the artist. The provenance provides a particularly compelling connection between these internationally recognized works and the Bay Area.

Moving south to Mexico, Clars is pleased to offer a masterfully painted acrylic on canvas by Rafael Coronel (1932–2019). Titled La Moneda, Recuerdo de Espana, this portrait of a man in a priestly frock features notable hallmarks of Coronel’s work: smooth application, with sfumato contributing to a surreal atmosphere, and naturalistic precision. The figure holds a gold coin to his chest in a mysterious gesture, staring out at the viewer. Coronel’s work ties into the rich Latin American artistic tradition of magical surrealism, infusing religious imagery with dark whimsy. This painting is estimated at $15,000–$25,000.

Contemporary art is represented by David Wiseman’s Untitled (Branch with Blossoms), estimated at $20,000–$40,000, as well as works by Rafael Coronel, Sergio Hernández, John Hoyland, Paul Jenkins, Paul Wonner, Jennifer Losch Bartlett, and Tom Wesselmann. These works demonstrate the auction’s range across abstraction, figuration, mixed media, and works on paper. The sale also features a strong selection of American and California art, with highlights by artists whose work helped define the visual character of the American West and the Bay Area. Among them are Jessie Arms Botke’s Untitled (Egrets), an oil and gold-leaf work estimated at $15,000–$25,000; Henrietta Berk’s Untitled (View of East Bay), a monumental 72 x 78 inch oil on canvas estimated at $15,000–$20,000; and Thomas Hill’s The Intruder, 1888, estimated at $15,000–$20,000.

Berk is represented by a second work, Racing the Tide, estimated at $7,000–$10,000, while other California-focused highlights include Joseph Kleitsch’s California, Hanson Duvall Puthuff’s The Arroyo, Thomas Bierstadt’s Mt. Starry King, Yosemite, James Harwood’s Waterfall in the Watsatch (Utah), Maynard Dixon’s Arizona, and Helen Thomas Dranga’s Sunlight on the Waves, Hawaii.

The auction also offers works of historical significance and broad international appeal. Edward Bannister’s Bridge Over the Creek, 1886, estimated at $10,000–$15,000, represents the work of one of the most important African American painters of the 19th century. Max Halberstadt’s portrait of Sigmund Freud, a gelatin silver print signed by Freud, is estimated at $10,000–$15,000, providing a fascinating intersection of photography, portraiture, and intellectual history.

Works on paper and prints further enrich the sale, including Paul Cézanne’s The Bathers, small plate (Les Baigneurs, petite planche), 1897, estimated at $7,000–$10,000, as well as works by Tom Wesselmann, John Hoyland, Paul Wonner, and others.

The auction’s contemporary and modern offerings are complemented by sculpture, including a bronze male torso by Igor Mitoraj, estimated at $7,000–$10,000, and the distinctive work of contemporary artist David Wiseman. The breadth of mediums and artistic approaches underscores the diversity of Clars’ Fine Art auctions, where historic works are presented alongside modern and contemporary pieces.

Fine Art has always been at the heart of Clars, and this September auction reflects the remarkable range of material that our collectors have come to expect from the department, said Rick Unruh, CEO and President. We are particularly excited about the strength of the California material, the exceptional provenance of the two Escher works, and the dialogue created by bringing together American, European, Latin American, modern, and contemporary works in a single sale.

The combination of fine and decorative arts, Asian works, jewelry, and the important Arts & Crafts collection makes the Friday, September 18th Gallery Auction particularly diverse, with material spanning both historic and modern collecting traditions.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Beyond the featured Arts & Crafts material, Friday’s Gallery Auction offers a broad selection of furniture and decorative arts, providing collectors and interior designers with opportunities across a variety of styles and periods. Among the highlights are sculptures from the Palace of Fine Arts, offering a connection to one of San Francisco’s most iconic architectural landmarks. A Louis Vuitton trunk, estimated at $2,000–$4,000, brings the world of historic luxury travel into the sale, while contemporary American craftsmanship is represented by a Philip Moulthrop spalted sweet gum bowl, number 6990, with engraved signature, estimated at $800–$1,200.

A fascinating historical object is a set of Japanese military/naval binoculars, Tokyo (Tokyo Optical Co.) 5 x 4, No. 844, accompanied by a tripod marked TACO 8720A, estimated at $1,200–$1,500, will be up for grabs. Also from the furniture highlights is a pair of Rose Tarlow chairs, estimated at $1,500–$2,500. The decorative arts selection also features a monumental pair of Indian metal-clad candle prickets, estimated at $1,500–$2,500.

The auction also offers a pair of finely crafted Russian decorative objects: an 84 standard silvergilt and cloisonné enamel miniature kovsch by Feodor Ruckert, estimated at $1,500–$2,000, and a Russian 84 standard silver-gilt and enamel set of six teaspoons by Gustav Klingert, estimated at $1,200–$1,800.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

The jewelry offerings provide an appealing range of historic and decorative pieces, from Victorian jewelry and antique gold to an exceptional Pre-Columbian gold object. A standout is a Pre-Columbian high-karat gold Chiriquí frog, estimated at $8,000–$12,000. The small-scale sculpture exemplifies the sophisticated goldworking traditions of the ancient Chiriquí culture of the Isthmian region and is expected to attract collectors of Pre-Columbian art and ancient gold.

The jewelry selection also includes an antique seed pearl, turquoise, diamond, and 10k gold necklace, estimated at $1,000–$2,000, offering a distinctive combination of colorful gemstones and period craftsmanship. Rounding out the highlights are a Victorian hardstone and 14k gold cameo necklace, estimated at $400–$600, and a pair of antique 14k gold earrings, estimated at $350–$550.

Asian Art

The Asian Art section adds another dimension to Friday’s auction, with highlights ranging from Chinese furniture and porcelain to enamel and Japanese cloisonné. Leading the section is a Chinese huanghuali side table, banzhuo, estimated at $10,000–$15,000. The offering highlights the enduring appeal of huanghuali furniture among collectors of Chinese classical furniture and decorative arts.

Also featured is Zhang Daqian (1899–1983), Masterworks of Chang Dai-Chien, estimated at $5,000–$7,000. Additional Asian highlights include a Chinese champlevé enamel tripod censer and cover, estimated at $3,000–$5,000, and a Chinese blue and white handled vase, also estimated at $3,000–$5,000. A set of four Chinese blue and white porcelain wall panels is estimated at $2,000–$4,000, while a Japanese cloisonné enamel vase by the Ando Cloisonné Company carries an estimate of $1,000–$1,500.

The Warehouse Auction: September 19th

The three-day September auction series concludes with The Warehouse Auction, offering collectors, dealers, designers, and enthusiasts a broad and varied selection of property across categories and price points.

The Warehouse Auction provides an opportunity to discover distinctive works, decorative objects, furnishings, and other treasures, making it an accessible and engaging conclusion to the September auction series.

Clars Auctions is pleased to present its three-day August auction series, beginning with the Gallery Auction on Friday, August 14th, followed by The Warehouse Auction on Saturday, August 15th, and concluding with the Clars Wine Cellar Timed Only Auction on Monday, August 17th. Together, the three sales offer collectors an opportunity to acquire fine art, antiques, jewelry, decorative arts, Asian works of art, and wine from distinguished estates and private collections.

Fine Art

The August 14th Gallery Auction showcases an impressive selection of Fine Art led by notable American painters whose works celebrate both California and the American landscape. Leading the category is William Lewis Marple’s Rutherford Hill, a sweeping California landscape, estimated at $6,000–$9,000, alongside Porfirio Salinas’ Texas Autumn, estimated at $5,000–$7,000.

Also featured is Mary DeNeale Morgan’s rare circa 1925 View of Oakland Skyline, estimated at $3,000–$5,000, as well as Edwin Deakin’s atmospheric Sierra Nevada landscape, also estimated at $3,000–$5,000. The sale further includes Roger Herman’s Flugel (1978), estimated at $2,000–$4,000; Erté’s signed and editioned bronze bowl Trois Femmes, estimated at $2,000–$4,000; and a signed Salvador Dalí Symbols portfolio, estimated at $2,000–$4,000, reflecting the auction’s broad appeal to both traditional and modern collectors.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture & Decorative Arts department presents an equally compelling offering anchored by a monumental palace-size Persian Kirman carpet. Additional highlights include an Art Deco sterling silver four-piece tea and coffee service, estimated at $4,000–$6,000; an Egyptian Revival ibis stool, estimated at $1,200–$1,500; and an intricate Italian micromosaic paperweight, estimated at $600–$800, offering collectors an exceptional range of decorative objects spanning multiple periods and styles.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

Jewelry enthusiasts will discover a carefully curated selection of estate and designer pieces featuring exceptional gemstones, enameling, and fine goldwork. Highlights include a diamond, green enamel, and 18k gold bangle, estimated at $3,500–$4,500; an Alexander Marchak Paris turquoise, ruby, diamond, cultured pearl, and 18k gold brooch, estimated at $4,000–$6,000; a Boris Le Beau coral, diamond, jade, and 18k gold figural brooch, estimated at $3,000–$5,000; a pair of Gaston Lebo blue enamel, rock crystal, and 18k gold ear clips, estimated at $1,500–$2,500; and an Indian multi-color sapphire and fabric necklace, estimated at $2,000–$4,000.

Asian Art

Asian Works of Art will offer collectors an exceptional group of jade carvings and decorative works highlighted by a Chinese green jadeite “three abundance” pendant, estimated at $15,000–$20,000. Additional highlights include a Chinese white jade and spinach jade pendant necklace, estimated at $2,000–$4,000; a painting by contemporary Balinese artist Anak Agung Gde Anom Sukawati, estimated at $3,000–$5,000; and a Japanese six-panel folding screen, estimated at $2,000–$4,000, illustrating the diversity and enduring appeal of Asian artistic traditions.

The Warehouse Auction: August 15th

Following the Gallery Auction, Clars’ Warehouse Auction on Saturday, August 15th, presents an expansive offering of furniture, decorative arts, fine art, jewelry, and collectibles from estates and consignments throughout the region. Known for its wide-ranging selection and accessible price points, the Warehouse Auction continues to attract seasoned collectors, decorators, and first-time buyers alike in search of distinctive and unexpected finds.

Clars Wine Cellar Auction: August 17th

The August auction series concludes on Monday, August 17th, with the Clars Wine Cellar Timed Only Auction, featuring a selection of nearly 70 lots from a distinguished single-owner cellar. The sale is highlighted by wines from Peter Michael, Kamen, Chateau Montelena, Kistler, and Laparita, along with an exceptional selection of Cabernet Sauvignon from many of Sonoma and Napa Valley’s premier vintners. Offering opportunities for both seasoned collectors and enthusiasts, the auction presents an outstanding selection of fine and rare wines ideal for collecting, cellaring, and entertaining.

Clars is pleased to announce the upcoming two-day July auction series, featuring the Gallery Auction on Friday, July 17th, followed by the Warehouse Auction on Saturday, July 18th. Collectors, designers, dealers, and art enthusiasts will discover a thoughtfully curated selection of fine art, Asian art, furniture, decorative arts, jewelry, and estate property, offering opportunities across a wide range of collecting categories.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Furniture & Decorative Arts highlights are led by a Herter Brothers armchair, one of only three commissioned for Thurlow Lodge, with an estimate of $8,000–$12,000. Renowned for furnishing many of America’s most prestigious Gilded Age interiors, Herter Brothers pieces remain among the most coveted examples of 19th-century American furniture.

The sale also features an impressive selection of decorative arts, including two Carlton Ware luster articles in the celebrated ‘Chinatown’ pattern, estimated at $400–$600, and two Carlton Ware pottery luster vases decorated with the ‘Magical Tree and Heron’ and ‘Tree and Cloud’ motifs, estimated at $800–$1,200.

Additional highlights include an English Rococo-style gold-mounted agate patch or pill box, estimated at $800–$1,200, and a large signed Baccarat opaline glass vase, estimated at $2,500–$3,500. Together, these pieces offer collectors exceptional examples of European decorative arts, fine craftsmanship, and timeless design.

Fine Art

Leading the Fine Art category is an exceptional carved wood relief by Mario Sanchez. Old Key West – Everything in Profusion is a vibrant oil on carved and painted wood relief that captures the colorful character and architectural charm of historic Key West. Signed and titled by the artist, the work is expected to realize $20,000–$40,000.

Additional Fine Art highlights include Henrietta Berk’s Green Valley Road, a richly colored oil on canvas signed and titled by the artist, estimated at $7,000–$10,000. Also featured is Charles Reiffel’s Untitled (Trees Along Water’s Edge with Buttes in the Distance), an atmospheric oil on canvas estimated at $6,000–$9,000.

Completing the category highlights is Ira Yeager’s Untitled (Snow Leopard), an expressive oil on canvas estimated at $3,000–$5,000. Together, these works represent a compelling selection of American art spanning Impressionist landscapes, California scenes, folk art, and contemporary wildlife painting.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

The Fine Jewelry & Watches department offers an elegant selection of jewelry and luxury watches, led by a Rolex 14k gold hidden watch bracelet, estimated at $4,000–$6,000. Combining the prestige of the Rolex name with the sophistication of a concealed bracelet watch design, this piece is expected to attract significant interest from both watch collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

Additional highlights include a striking diamond and platinum ring, estimated at $2,000–$3,000, showcasing the enduring appeal of classic platinum-set diamonds. Also featured is an antique turquoise, blue diamond, 14k, and 18k gold pendant necklace, estimated at $700–$1,000, offering collectors a distinctive example of antique craftsmanship with vibrant gemstone accents. Together, these pieces present a refined cross-section of fine jewelry and luxury accessories, ranging from collectible watches to elegant diamond and gemstone designs.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department presents a refined collection of Japanese cloisonné enamels and Chinese textiles, highlighting the extraordinary craftsmanship of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Among the featured offerings is a Japanese cloisonné enamel carp vase by Ando Jubei, estimated at $3,000–$5,000, alongside a Japanese cloisonné enamel vase by Gonda Hirosuke, also estimated at $3,000–$5,000.

Additional highlights include a Japanese cloisonné enamel wisteria vase attributed to Hayashi Kodenji, estimated at $1,500–$2,500, a Japanese cloisonné vase estimated at $1,500–$2,500, and a Japanese cloisonné enamel sake pot in the style of Namikawa Yasuyuki, estimated at $2,000–$4,000.

Complementing these exceptional enamels is a Chinese blue-ground silk brocade dragon robe, estimated at $2,000–$4,000. This carefully selected group reflects the remarkable artistry and technical mastery that continue to make Japanese cloisonné and Chinese court textiles highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

The Warehouse Auction: July 18th

Following the Gallery Auction, the July 18th Warehouse Auction features hundreds of additional lots from estates and private collections.The sale includes furniture, decorative arts, fine art, collectibles, home furnishings, and unique discoveries across a wide range of price points, making it an ideal opportunity for both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers. Whether searching for antiques, interior furnishings, or one-of-a-kind estate finds, bidders will find an exciting array of opportunities throughout the sale.

Clars is pleased to announce its upcoming Summer Antique Jewelry Salon Auction on June 18th, featuring an exceptional selection of fine antique and estate jewelry, rare gemstones, and historically significant decorative arts.

The highly curated sale will showcase an elegant array of Victorian, Art Nouveau, Edwardian, Art Deco, Retro, and contemporary jewelry designs, highlighting remarkable craftsmanship, important gemstones, and timeless sophistication. Collectors will encounter an exciting selection of antique diamond jewels, colored gemstone creations, fine goldwork, and rare collector pieces drawn from distinguished private collections.

Leading the sale is a spectacular diamond, gem-set and 18k gold suite, estimated at $25,000–$35,000, alongside an impressive Retro diamond and 18k gold bracelet, estimated at $8,000–$12,000. Additional highlights include a jade, diamond, platinum and 14k gold pendant necklace, estimated at $8,000–$12,000; a Retro ruby, diamond, and 18k gold brooch estimated at $6,000–$8,000; and an antique diamond and 14k gold brooch carrying an estimate of $2,000–$4,000.

The sale further features a striking Retro ruby, diamond, and 14k gold ring, estimated at $5,000–$7,000; an elegant diamond, sapphire and 18k gold brooch, estimated at $3,500–$5,500; and a refined pair of diamond and platinum brooches, estimated at $4,000–$6,000 and $2,000–$3,000 respectively.

Collectors of antique jewelry will also appreciate a diverse selection of Victorian and Art Nouveau treasures, including a Victorian guilloche enamel, diamond, and 18k bi-color gold pocket watch, estimated at $1,000–$2,000; an antique quartz, ruby, mother-of-pearl and 14k gold pendant-brooch, estimated at $500–$700; and an antique peridot, seed pearl and 9k gold lavalier necklace, estimated at $500–$700.

Additional offerings include antique jade, coral, amethyst, sapphire, and seed pearl jewelry, as well as mourning jewelry and decorative pendants that reflect the rich artistry and symbolism of 19th and early 20th century design. Among them are a coral and jade worry bead necklace, estimated at $2,500–$3,500; a carved jade and 22k gold pendant, estimated at $800–$1,200; an amethyst and 14k gold pendant, estimated at $250–$350; and a Victorian coral, turquoise and gold-filled figa seal, estimated at $300–$500.

Concluding the sale is The Irene Deitsch Collection of English Victorian and French Posy Holders, an extraordinary collection of more than 130 antique tussie-mussies and posy holders, many of which are being offered at auction for the first time. These delicate and highly decorative objects, once fashionable accessories of the Victorian era, were designed to hold fragrant floral bouquets and symbolized refinement, romance, and sentiment.

Clars is pleased to present its upcoming June 19th Gallery Auction, offering an exceptional selection of Fine Art, Asian Works of Art, Furniture, Decorative Arts, and Design. The sale will feature important paintings, rare Asian objects, fine furnishings, and decorative pieces spanning centuries of craftsmanship and collecting traditions.

Fine Art

Leading the Fine Art offerings is Chaparral Hills (1918) by celebrated Western artist Maynard Dixon (American, 1875–1946). Executed in oil on canvas and signed and dated lower right, the work exemplifies Dixon’s iconic depictions of the American landscape through bold composition and rich tonal atmosphere. The painting carries an estimate of $15,000–$25,000.

Also featured is Yosemite View by Thomas Hill (American, 1829–1908), an important California landscape painter renowned for his romantic portrayals of the American West. The oil on canvas painting, signed lower right, captures the grandeur and serenity of Yosemite’s natural beauty and is estimated at $6,000–$9,000.

Asian Art

The Asian Works of Art department will present an impressive selection of Chinese and Japanese objects highlighting exceptional craftsmanship and historical significance. Among the leading lots is a Chinese four-panel rosewood, burlwood, and famille verte porcelain screen from the 19th century, estimated at $4,000–$6,000. Also featured is a pair of Chinese famille rose ‘bats’ bowls bearing Daoguang marks and of the period, estimated at $5,000–$7,000. The duo reflects the refined porcelain artistry of the Qing dynasty.

Additional highlights include Ananda by renowned Japanese artist Munakata Shiko (1903–1975), estimated at $3,000–$5,000, as well as a Japanese export sterling tea service by Arthur & Bond of Yokohama, estimated at $4,000–$6,000, showcasing the elegance and craftsmanship associated with one of Japan’s most celebrated export silversmiths.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Complementing the sale is an exceptional presentation of Furniture and Decorative Arts, showcasing European and American antiques, modern and contemporary design, fine silver, ceramics, lighting, and decorative objects. Collectors can anticipate a thoughtfully curated offering of elegant case furniture, seating, mirrors, garden elements, and designer furnishings, paired with distinctive decorative accessories that span traditional to modern aesthetics.

The department continues to attract discerning collectors and interior designers alike with pieces that seamlessly combine functionality, craftsmanship, and enduring appeal. Highlights include: a large Tiffany & Co. sterling ice bucket, estimated at $7,000–$10,000; a collection of 60 American flag paperweights, including a rare pair of dual American and Italian flag glass paperweights, estimated at $400–$600; Kip Stewart’s Bronze Age collection outdoor patio suite, estimated at $6,000–$9,000; a Christian Dior porcelain dinner service in the Casablanca pattern, estimated at $2,000–$3,000; and a Spanish Vargueño cabinet, circa 1820, estimated at $1,000–$1,500.

The Warehouse Auction: June 20th

The series concludes on Saturday, June 20th with The Warehouse Auction, an eclectic and accessible sale offering decorative arts, furnishings, collectibles, and estate material. Known for its breadth and opportunity, this auction provides bidders with the chance to discover unique pieces and exceptional value across numerous collecting categories.

Clars Auctions is proud to present its May 15th Gallery Auction, distinguished by a commanding Important Fine Art section that will lead the sale.

This premier opening segment brings together an exceptional and thoughtfully curated group of works spanning American, European, and contemporary art, now further enriched by the inclusion of works by Raimonds Staprans, one of the foremost representatives of post-war California painting nationwide, and Fernando C. Amorsolo, one of the most celebrated figures in Philippine art, underscoring Clars’ continued strength in presenting high-caliber, globally significant fine art to the market.

A major highlight of the sale is La Lavandera (1937) by Fernando Amorsolo (Filipino, 1892–1972), an exceptional oil on board measuring 13 x 17 inches, estimated at $80,000–$120,000. Exemplifying Amorsolo’s masterful handling of light and his iconic depictions of rural Philippine life, this work stands as a rare and significant offering within the auction’s international fine art selection.

Further reinforcing the strength of the Important Fine Art section are standout works such as An Old Street in Taos by Joseph Henry Sharp, estimated at $40,000–$60,000; and a rare four panel Monterey Cypress mural by Chiura Obata, estimated at $15,000–$25,000.

Collectors will also find notable examples by Julian Alden Weir, Leon Dabo, and Eustace Paul Ziegler, alongside important modern and contemporary voices including Christopher Brown, Bruce Nauman, and Gregory Crewdson.

The depth of the fine art offering continues with works connected to Pablo Picasso, including an etching from La Suite Vollard and a tapestry after Jacqueline.

Significant California and American artists are well represented, with works by Granville Redmond, Maynard Dixon, Edward Potthast, and Wayne Thiebaud. Additional highlights include a bronze relief by Ruth Asawa, a sculptural work by Anne and Patrick Poirier, and contemporary pieces by Ben Quinn and Marcel Dzama — further demonstrating the breadth and quality of this leading section.

Following the Important Fine Art session, the May Gallery Auction continues with a diverse and compelling selection across multiple collecting categories.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Furniture & Decorative Arts offerings include a Bernhard Rhone for Mastercraft low table, estimated at $300–$500; a fine French Régence ormolu-mounted commode, estimated at $2,000–$4,000; a French Neoclassical polychrome and parcel-gilt console table, estimated at $1,000–$1,500; and a Stickley Audi bow arm Morris chair with ottoman, estimated at $1,200–$1,800.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

The Fine Jewelry section features an antique turquoise and 15k gold necklace and earring suite, estimated at $4,000–$7,000, alongside distinctive antique brooches including lava stone and gemstone snake examples.

Asian Art

Asian Works of Art highlights include a Chinese blue and white ‘qilin’ charger from the Transitional period, estimated at $3,000–$5,000; a famille rose ‘hundred bats’ charger bearing a Guangxu mark, estimated at $2,000–$4,000; and an 18th-century huanghuali chest, estimated at $4,000–$6,000.

The Warehouse Auction: May 16th

The series concludes on Saturday, May 16th with The Warehouse Auction, an eclectic and accessible sale offering decorative arts, furnishings, collectibles, and estate material. Known for its breadth and opportunity, this auction provides bidders with the chance to discover unique pieces and exceptional value across numerous collecting categories.

Clars will present a two-day auction series beginning with the Gallery Auction on Friday, April 17th, followed by the Warehouse Auction on Saturday, April 18th. The upcoming sales bring together a curated selection of fine art, Asian works of art, jewelry, and decorative design, offering collectors access to a wide range of significant works spanning international markets and periods.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture & Decorative Arts category features significant examples of studio furniture and refined European-inspired design. An Arthur Espenet Carpenter double music stand, estimated at $2,000–$4,000, demonstrates the designer’s sculptural approach to utilitarian objects. Also included is a Rose Tarlow chinoiserie lacquer coffee table estimated at $3,000–$5,000, blending traditional Asian-inspired motifs with contemporary luxury design.

Additional highlights include a Reed & Barton sterling silver flatware service in the “Francis I” pattern estimated at $15,000–$20,000, a large Neoclassical style giltwood pier mirror estimated at $1,500–$2,500, and a Florentine scagliola table top by Emilio Martelli estimated at $3,000–$5,000, showcasing decorative techniques rooted in European craftsmanship traditions.

Fine Art

The Fine Art department presents a strong group of American and international modern works, led by William Wendt’s Untitled (Laguna Hills), 1912, estimated at $10,000–$15,000. This piece is a plein air composition capturing Southern California’s rolling terrain with Wendt’s characteristic tonal structure and impressionist influence.

Aubrey Beardsley’s The Toilet, circa 1895, estimated at $6,000–$9,000, exemplifies the artist’s highly stylized Art Nouveau line work and includes provenance from the Joan and Lester Avnet Collection. Dr. Atl’s Volcano, estimated at $3,000–$5,000, reflects the artist’s dramatic engagement with natural forces through expressive charcoal technique.

Additional works include Victor Higgins’ Untitled (Near Taos) estimated at $10,000–$15,000, Granville Redmond’s Untitled (After the Storm) estimated at $4,000–$6,000, and Percy Gray’s View of Mount Tamalpais estimated at $3,000–$5,000, each contributing to a broader narrative of early 20th-century landscape and tonal modernism.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

The Fine Jewelry & Watches selection is led by a commanding Jadeite, diamond, ruby, and 18k gold dragon pendant, estimated at $10,000–$15,000, exemplifying traditional symbolic motifs rendered in high-carat gold and vibrant gemstones. Jadeite continues to be a strong category within the sale, represented by a bead necklace estimated at $3,500–$5,500 with evenly matched stones and elegant gold accents, a pendant estimated at $800–$1,200 highlighting minimalist design and natural translucency, and a bracelet estimated at $1,000–$1,500 featuring polished jadeite elements set in 14k gold.

The horology selection includes a Hublot Classic Fusion 77e Bol D’or Mirabaud edition #01/77 in 18k rose gold and enamel, estimated at $6,000–$10,000. It’s notable for its limited production and commemorative racing inspiration. To be offered alongside is an Audemars Piguet ladies 18k gold watch #01/02 estimated at $7,000–$10,000, reflecting refined Swiss craftsmanship and collectible rarity.

Asian Art

The Asian Works of Art category is anchored by finely executed Chinese porcelain and Japanese printmaking. Highlights include a blue and white figural rouleau vase estimated at $2,000–$4,000, notable for its detailed narrative figural decoration and classical form, and a blue and white and celadon ground “horse” vase estimated at $3,000–$5,000, distinguished by its striking contrast between cobalt motifs and soft celadon glazing.

Also featured is Kawase Hasui’s Morning at Tsutanuma Pond, estimated at $2,000– $4,000, a serene woodblock print reflecting Hasui’s mastery of light and atmospheric landscape within the Shin-hanga tradition. Additional highlights include a finely embroidered Chinese silk “Shaoulao and Magu” panel estimated at $2,000–$4,000 which depicts auspicious Daoist figures associated with longevity, and a Japanese cloisonné enamel “carp” plaque estimated at $600–$900 — a decorative work symbolizing perseverance and good fortune.

The Warehouse Auction: April 18th

On Saturday, April 18th, Clars Auctions will host its Warehouse Auction, presenting a broad and eclectic selection of property offered at accessible price points. The sale features a wide range of categories, including art, prints, photographs, modern and antique furniture, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, and an array of decorative objects.

The Asian Art section offers Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, and folding screens, while the jewelry selection includes an appealing assortment of affordable diamond and silver necklaces. The auction is further complemented by a diverse offering of modern and antique furniture, home décor, and collectible toys, making the Warehouse Auction an inviting opportunity for collectors of all levels to discover distinctive and meaningful pieces.