This exquisite vase, decorated with the legendary Eight Immortals, showcases exceptional craftsmanship and vibrant colors. Valued between $1,000–$1,500, it presents an opportunity for collectors to acquire a piece of Chinese cultural history.
We are honored to present the globally sourced bead and tribal jewelry collection from the Naomi Lindstrom estate on October 16th.
We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.
For over 30 years Eddi acquired, researched, and catalogued antique walking sticks from around the world.
This April we are honored to present the collection of Lila Mae Azad — a woman whose devotion to the arts lives on through her legacy.
On April 18th, Clars Auctions will present a series of exquisite collectibles at its spring Fine Asian Art Auction for collectors.
The contemporary Asian section of our April 18th auction will feature important work by Chuang Che, a Chinese-American abstract artist.
Sir Joseph Scott of Great Barr Hall, Worcester’s parliamentary representative, was granted a baronetcy in 1806. This armorial service, created for him, was appropriately crafted by the Chamberlains Worcester factory, highlighting the connection between the patron and the local craftsmanship.
The Fine Interiors Auction is anchored by an important estate designed by the renowned interior design firm Parish-Hadley Associates.
Tom and Gussie Lyon’s shared love of design, art, and architecture began soon after their wedding in the early 1950s.
Hank Risan’s musical instrument collection included more than 750 examples of fine 19th and 20th century acoustic instruments.
On October 17th, Clars is proud to offer an iconic piece of Hollywood history: a Maltese Falcon prop from the 1941 film noir classic.
On October 18th we are excited to present Session II of a Jazz collection featuring very exciting pieces.
Clars Auctions’ Senior Vice President, Deric Torres, was honored to participate in a celebration hosted by The Menlo Park Historical Association and The Museum of American Heritage.
Jewelry typically referred to as “ancient” is around 5,000–7,000 years old. Early civilizations crafted jewelry from locally sourced gemstones and metals, often obtained through extensive trade networks. Some scholars believe that the first written language developed through bead trading, as beads were among the first items used for trade, and people valued them for both their beauty and significance.
As archaeological discoveries have unearthed ancient tombs and artifacts, jewelry designs from past civilizations have been revived or reinterpreted in new styles. For example, the Etruscan Revival, Architectural Revival, and Egyptian Revival occurred at distinct points in history, between 1820–1850, 1870–1900, and 1920–1935.
Egyptian-inspired jewelry is particularly iconic, featuring recurring symbols such as scarabs, Horus, ankhs, pharaohs, and cartouches. These pieces often incorporated enamel, faience, and specific gemstones like lapis lazuli and turquoise. Later revivals continued to embrace these themes, though materials and techniques evolved based on the period’s available resources.
Jewelry periods are often categorized as Georgian, Victorian, Arts and Crafts, Edwardian, Belle Époque, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Retro, and Mid-century Modern, with each period having its own distinct characteristics that jewelry specialists use to identify and date pieces. Additionally, terms like “antique,” “vintage,” “estate,” and “period” are frequently used, though sometimes incorrectly.
When assigning a period to a piece of jewelry, a specialist considers more than just its appearance. The materials, cutting styles, metalworking techniques, and equipment used during the period of its creation all play a role in its classification. It’s not uncommon for a single piece to show influences from multiple periods, reflecting the transition between styles or combining elements from different times.
Conversely, a piece might have characteristics that suggest one period, but its materials or craftsmanship could align with another. These overlaps can result from factors like geography, war, resources, technological advancements, fashion trends, or even reproductions. Although we often categorize jewelry into specific periods, the timeline of history is always fluid, with styles blending and evolving. Ultimately, each civilization has sought ways to create and cherish adornments. One wonders: how will future historians view the jewelry of today?
We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.
For over 30 years Eddi acquired, researched, and catalogued antique walking sticks from around the world.
This April we are honored to present the collection of Lila Mae Azad — a woman whose devotion to the arts lives on through her legacy.
The contemporary Asian section of our April 18th auction will feature important work by Chuang Che, a Chinese-American abstract artist.
Our Modern Design section of the April 18th auction will feature a sculptural Alvar Aalto bentwood tea trolley.
This April 18th we will offer pair of Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen Swan chairs — sculptural, iconic, and effortlessly modern.
Amid internal conflicts and political struggles with the Western World in the 19th century, China’s porcelain commissions dwindled. To survive, artisans had to appeal to a broader audience, which now included not only the imperial court but also officials, scholars, and the rising merchant class.
This period of upheaval gave rise to a new porcelain style. Known as ‘qianjiang cai,’ this aesthetic is distinguished by its soft, subtle hues, a stark contrast to the bold and opaque enamels that had been popular before. Translated as “light umber,” ‘qianjiang cai’ drew inspiration from the literati paintings of the Song and Yuan dynasties, which achieved a sense of atmosphere through the gradual blending of ink tones. To appeal to the scholarly class, artisans in Jingdezhen began to replicate these paintings on porcelain. These soft-colored enamels were used not only for landscape scenes but also for subjects like birds-and-flowers, still-life compositions featuring auspicious objects, and figures from history, mythology, or religion.
With such a talented community of artisans, creativity and innovation were essential for survival. Among the success stories from this era are the ‘Zhushan bayou’ (Eight Friends of Zhushan), a group of artists who gathered on the full moon of every lunar month. Each member of the group had their own area of expertise and unique aesthetic preferences. Wang Qi, widely regarded as the leader of the group, was known for his depictions of figures. His masterful use of graduated, soft tones, especially in delicate facial features, created striking and evocative images that continue to captivate viewers today.
Another notable figure from this period is Wang Bu, who sought to create a more realistic style, though not in the muted tones of ‘qianjiang cai.’ Specializing in ceramics and trained in the blue-and-white art, Wang Bu revived the portrayal of birds and flowers with his innovative technique, employing lighter shades of cobalt to contrast with the traditionally dense and bold blue of the past.
The artists of Jingdezhen during the late 19th and early 20th centuries experienced significant changes, but their creativity and adaptability ensured their survival, leaving a lasting legacy.
We are honored to present the globally sourced bead and tribal jewelry collection from the Naomi Lindstrom estate on October 16th.
We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.
For over 30 years Eddi acquired, researched, and catalogued antique walking sticks from around the world.
This April we are honored to present the collection of Lila Mae Azad — a woman whose devotion to the arts lives on through her legacy.
On April 18th, Clars Auctions will present a series of exquisite collectibles at its spring Fine Asian Art Auction for collectors.
The contemporary Asian section of our April 18th auction will feature important work by Chuang Che, a Chinese-American abstract artist.
We are deeply grateful for your continued trust and support — your enthusiasm has been the driving force behind our success at Clars Auctions. It has truly been our privilege to present such an exceptional array of fine art, antiques, and collectibles.
This year, our auctions delivered impressive results across many categories. Some of the highlights include our Summer Fine Art Auction, where Salvador Dalí’s Portrait of Mrs. Luther Greene (1942) achieved $720,000, and the Fall Fine Art Auction, which saw William Merritt Chase’s A Mother’s Joy (1889) sell for $378,000.
Our Fine Jewelry & Watches auctions were also highly successful. A Cartier 18k gold Monaco wristwatch fetched $50,400, while a Bulgari blue chalcedony necklace in our Luxury Jewelry Auction sold for $17,640. Additionally, a pair of ‘A Grade’ jadeite and platinum ear clips brought in $88,200.
In the Furniture & Decorative Arts category, a striking Niamh Barry copper and glass light fixture sold for $50,400, and a French gilt bronze Madonna and Child reached $47,250.
Asian Art proved to be another standout in 2024. Notable sales included Zhang Daqian’s Setting Sail, which realized $69,300, and a Chinese jadeite wine cup set from December that fetched $44,100. Our December Fine Asian Auction also featured a rare Yongzheng-period robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase, which sold for $630,000, and a Chinese famille rose ‘landscape’ porcelain plaque by Zhang Zhitang (1893–1971), which achieved $163,800.
Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited about the upcoming auctions, which will feature even more extraordinary works. We look forward to continuing this journey with you and discovering new treasures together in the year ahead. On behalf of the entire team at Clars Auctions, we wish you a joyful and prosperous New Year filled with success and exciting new collecting adventures.
The Fine Interiors Auction is anchored by an important estate designed by the renowned interior design firm Parish-Hadley Associates.
This highly anticipated sale features an exceptional array of fine wristwatches and holiday-ready jewelry.
Tom and Gussie Lyon’s shared love of design, art, and architecture began soon after their wedding in the early 1950s.
Our auction on October 17th will feature a curated selection of Furniture & Decorative Arts, Fine Art, and Fine Jewelry & Watches.
Hank Risan’s musical instrument collection included more than 750 examples of fine 19th and 20th century acoustic instruments.
On October 17th, Clars is proud to offer an iconic piece of Hollywood history: a Maltese Falcon prop from the 1941 film noir classic.
The story of this vase is as compelling as the piece itself. According to the consignor, the vase originally belonged to his mother-in-law, who lived in Brooklyn, New York, in the 1970s. She was of Swedish immigrant descent, sent to an orphanage at the age of six after her mother’s passing, and later adopted by a kind family. As an adult, she married a man who worked for Nestlé and had two sons. After her husband’s death, she returned to Brooklyn, where she lived with her family and was beloved for her involvement in church activities, playing the piano, and teaching Sunday school.
In the 1970s, she bought the vase from a street vendor’s stall in Brooklyn for a small amount. She treasured it and often displayed it on her piano, filled with dried leaves. In 1986, she moved to California to live with her son, bringing the vase along. However, the vase was forgotten for decades, stored in a shoebox in a closet. It was only a few weeks ago that Clars Auction rediscovered the vase, unveiling a story that had been hidden for years.
The consignor expressed, “Such a beautiful and historically significant vase should not be hidden away in a closet; it deserves to be admired by many.” Now, the Qing Yongzheng Robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase is set to take center stage at the auction, capturing the attention of collectors worldwide.
The “Lujun Glaze” porcelain, also known as Robin’s Egg glaze, originated during the Yongzheng period of the Qing Dynasty, crafted at the Jingdezhen Imperial Kiln under the supervision of Tang Ying. It was named for its resemblance to the low-temperature Jun wares of the Song Dynasty. The glaze combines techniques from both Jun ware and Yixing drip-glaze, resulting in unique flowing shades of red, blue, and purple. The surface is smooth and silky, with colors that change dynamically under natural light, evoking the beauty of nature.
As recorded in the Record of Ceramics Completion Stele, the Lujun glaze “resembles the Eastern Kiln and Yixing drip-glaze,” with distinctive fluid patterns and colors. It represents Tang Ying’s innovative fusion of traditional styles and highlights the Qing Dynasty’s dedication to ceramic artistry and aesthetic perfection. Due to its complex production process, surviving pieces are rare and mostly palace ware, making them highly valuable collectibles and a pinnacle of Qing porcelain craftsmanship.
The Chinese Robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase featured by Clars has an elegant and dignified form, showcasing a flared mouth, short neck, elongated curved body, and wide splayed foot, standing at approximately 19 centimeters tall. The mouth, neck, and belly of the vase are adorned with three string patterns, which are simple yet graceful, adding a three-dimensional effect and enhancing the visual appeal of the piece. This design reflects the refined and majestic style typical of Yongzheng porcelain. The base is engraved with a two-line, four-character mark: “Yongzheng Nian Zhi,” further indicating its imperial provenance and outstanding craftsmanship.
We are honored to present the globally sourced bead and tribal jewelry collection from the Naomi Lindstrom estate on October 16th.
We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.
For over 30 years Eddi acquired, researched, and catalogued antique walking sticks from around the world.
This April we are honored to present the collection of Lila Mae Azad — a woman whose devotion to the arts lives on through her legacy.
On April 18th, Clars Auctions will present a series of exquisite collectibles at its spring Fine Asian Art Auction for collectors.
The contemporary Asian section of our April 18th auction will feature important work by Chuang Che, a Chinese-American abstract artist.
The Fine Jade & Holiday Jewelry Auction is a standout feature, showcasing a captivating collection of jade jewelry, ranging from intricately carved pendants and bracelets to elegant earrings and rings. Highlights of the sale include a pair of A-grade jadeite and platinum earrings, estimated at $20,000–$40,000, and a magnificent jadeite bead necklace, estimated at $25,000–$35,000.
In addition to the jade offerings, the sale also presents a stunning array of fine jewelry featuring diamonds, pearls, and colored gemstones. For watch collectors, Clars is offering two exceptional timepieces: a Rolex stainless steel Explorer II wristwatch, estimated at $7,000–$10,000, and a highly coveted Patek Philippe stainless steel Nautilus wristwatch, estimated at $80,000–$100,000. This selection is a must for those seeking to add to their collection or to find a special gift for the season.
This highly anticipated sale features an exceptional array of fine wristwatches and holiday-ready jewelry.
We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.
The August 15th Fine Jewelry & Watches Auction will include a strong selection, offering a range of diamond, colored gemstone, and gold jewelry.
For over 30 years Eddi acquired, researched, and catalogued antique walking sticks from around the world.
This April we are honored to present the collection of Lila Mae Azad — a woman whose devotion to the arts lives on through her legacy.
The contemporary Asian section of our April 18th auction will feature important work by Chuang Che, a Chinese-American abstract artist.
With a background in both fine arts and design, Barry’s artistic journey is rooted in a lifelong fascination with the natural world. Her creations draw inspiration from organic forms and the intricate patterns found in nature, emphasizing the dynamic interplay of light and shadow.
Barry’s work is characterized by its ability to evoke emotions and create immersive atmospheres, transforming functional objects into stunning focal points. Each piece reflects her meticulous attention to detail and her commitment to quality, showcasing her skillful blend of traditional techniques with contemporary design principles. This unique approach has garnered her significant acclaim within the design community, leading to numerous exhibitions and collaborations.
Her work not only serves a practical purpose but also invites viewers to engage with the transformative power of light, making her fixtures an essential component of modern interior design. With a growing portfolio of work and a reputation for excellence, Barry continues to push the boundaries of design, establishing herself as a prominent figure in the art and lighting design world.
Clars is thrilled to have featured one of Barry’s light fixtures in our October 18th auction, titled This Is What I Like #1, a copper and glass light fixture from 2013, measuring 48″ x 55″. The competitive bidding — both online and via phone — resulted in the piece selling for an impressive $50,400, well above its estimated value of $4,000–$6,000. This clearly reflects the strong demand for her work in the collectible market, and Clars is proud to represent her creations. Its new home will be in a Contemporary Modern mansion in California.
We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.
For over 30 years Eddi acquired, researched, and catalogued antique walking sticks from around the world.
This April we are honored to present the collection of Lila Mae Azad — a woman whose devotion to the arts lives on through her legacy.
The contemporary Asian section of our April 18th auction will feature important work by Chuang Che, a Chinese-American abstract artist.
Our Modern Design section of the April 18th auction will feature a sculptural Alvar Aalto bentwood tea trolley.
This April 18th we will offer pair of Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen Swan chairs — sculptural, iconic, and effortlessly modern.
The Mitsui family’s legacy began in 1673 as a kimono shop and evolved into the influential Mitsui Group, a zaibatsu (conglomerate) that has played a pivotal role in Japan’s economic development from the Edo period to present day.
Their impact on commerce and culture is well-documented, notably in the book Mitsui: Three Centuries of Japanese Business. A remarkable 1930 article in Fortune magazine noted, “There is no business enterprise anywhere which is at once so diverse as the house of Mitsui in Japan.” This diversity is beautifully reflected in the collection we are proud to offer.
Spanning the 20th century, the collection showcases a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation, allowing art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the rich narrative of Japanese culture. Among its highlights are exquisite gifts exchanged during the marriage of Princess Hiroko (1897–1983), of the Shimazu Clan, and Mr. Takanaga Mitsui (1892– 1962), of the Mitsui Koishikawa clan, symbolizing the family’s appreciation for art and culture.
The collection features a diverse range of early 20th-century Western decorative arts, including Tiffany Studios glass and a bronze sculpture acquired directly from the renowned artist, Antoine Bourdelle, in Paris, reflecting the Mitsui family’s global perspective to fine art. Additionally, the collection proudly highlights works by contemporary Japanese artists Morino Taimei and Kyohei Fujita, showcasing their mastery of ceramics and glass.
We are honored to present the globally sourced bead and tribal jewelry collection from the Naomi Lindstrom estate on October 16th.
We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.
The sale offers a rare glimpse into the creative spirit of a connoisseur whose eye for the unusual and the beautiful resulted in a truly one-of-a-kind collection.
For over 30 years Eddi acquired, researched, and catalogued antique walking sticks from around the world.
This April we are honored to present the collection of Lila Mae Azad — a woman whose devotion to the arts lives on through her legacy.
The contemporary Asian section of our April 18th auction will feature important work by Chuang Che, a Chinese-American abstract artist.
In 1905, Hans Wilsdorf, a young German entrepreneur, founded a watch distribution company in London with his brother-in-law Alfred Davis. Initially named Wilsdorf & Davis, the company imported Swiss watch movements and placed them in high-quality cases. Wilsdorf’s vision extended beyond mere functionality; he aimed to create a brand synonymous with precision and reliability. In 1908, he registered the trademark “Rolex,” a name he chose for its simplicity and universal appeal.
The Oyster Perpetual Wristwatch continues to be a symbol of Rolex’s commitment to quality and innovation. The Oyster Perpetual, introduced in the 1920s, was the world’s first waterproof wristwatch. The Oyster name comes from an oyster, sealed keeping the bivalves closed keeping ocean water in. Of course, for a Rolex Oyster, the opposite is the goal, sealing the movement keeping water and dust out. Its stainless steel variant represents a balance between durability and elegance, making it a staple in Rolex’s lineup and a favorite among watch enthusiasts.
The Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Bubble Back Wristwatch was introduced in the 1930s and represented a significant advancement in watchmaking. The “Bubble Back” referred to the distinctive, protruding case back that housed the automatic movement, which was a notable innovation of the time. The Oyster Perpetual was celebrated for its robustness and water-resistant design, a leap forward in both functionality and durability.
The 18k Gold and Stainless Steel Oyster Perpetual Datejust Wristwatch represents a hallmark of Rolex’s innovation. Launched in 1945, the Datejust was the first self-winding waterproof chronometer wristwatch to feature an automatic date function displayed through a window at 3 o’clock. Its classic design, combining gold and stainless steel, made it a versatile choice for both formal and casual wear, solidifying its status as a timeless icon.
The Stainless Steel Speedking Wristwatch, introduced in the 1930s, was engineered for those who lived life in the fast lane. It was named after Sir Malcolm Campbell (British racing motorist), a Rolex enthusiast and nine-time world land speed record holder who set the record for fastest on land speed at 300 mph in 1935. Its sporty design and reliable performance made it a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts who demanded both functionality and style. The Speedking is also known as the “PoW watch.” During World War II, Rolex offered all British prisoners of war in Germany the ability to purchase a Rolex which would be delivered to their POW camp but could be paid for after the war was done. This was intended as a morale boost, and the affordable Speedking was without a doubt the most popular option.
The Stainless Steel Submariner Wristwatch is perhaps one of Rolex’s most iconic models. Introduced in 1953, the Submariner was designed for professional divers and became renowned for its water resistance and robustness. Its features, including a rotating bezel for tracking dive times and a luminous dial, have made it a symbol of adventure and exploration. The Submariner is highly coveted by collectors and adventurers alike.
The Rolex Diamond and 18k Gold Dress Watch reflects Rolex’s foray into luxury and elegance. In the 1950s and 1960s, Rolex expanded its range to include more opulent designs. This particular model showcases Rolex’s ability to blend precision with aesthetic grandeur, using diamonds and 18k gold to create a timepiece suitable for formal occasions and high society.
Rolex’s story is one of continuous innovation and timeless design. From its early beginnings in London to its status as a global icon, Rolex has remained at the forefront of watchmaking. Each model — whether the sturdy Bubble Back, the elegant diamond and gold dress watch, the sporty Speedking, the classic Datejust, the versatile Oyster Perpetual, or the adventurous Submariner — represents a chapter in Rolex’s legacy of precision, luxury, and craftsmanship.
As you explore these timepieces and their historical significance, you are not just witnessing the evolution of a brand but also the story of a visionary commitment to excellence that has transcended time.
This highly anticipated sale features an exceptional array of fine wristwatches and holiday-ready jewelry.
We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.
The August 15th Fine Jewelry & Watches Auction will include a strong selection, offering a range of diamond, colored gemstone, and gold jewelry.
For over 30 years Eddi acquired, researched, and catalogued antique walking sticks from around the world.
This April we are honored to present the collection of Lila Mae Azad — a woman whose devotion to the arts lives on through her legacy.
The contemporary Asian section of our April 18th auction will feature important work by Chuang Che, a Chinese-American abstract artist.