Highlights from our November 22nd Auction include beautiful timepieces from prestigious makers, Art Deco diamond and platinum brooches, Art Deco style furniture, Tiffany Studios glass, Flemish tapestries and a striking Chinese fresco fragment.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

Clars is thrilled to host the November Fine Watches and Jewelry Auction on Friday, November 22nd, starting at 9:30 AM PST. This sale features a captivating array of exquisite jewelry to suit every taste. Whether you’re seeking the classic elegance of lustrous pearls and brilliant diamonds, or unique statement pieces crafted from jade and gold, our auction offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to bid on stunning, unmounted diamonds renowned for their exceptional cut and clarity—ideal for both collectors and connoisseurs.

Additionally, we will showcase beautiful timepieces from prestigious makers like Vacheron Constantin and Longines, each a testament to superior craftsmanship and style. Highlighting the event are exquisite Art Deco diamond and platinum brooches, sure to delight jewelry aficionados and watch enthusiasts alike. Mark your calendars for this sophisticated experience where elegance meets excitement!

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Our November gallery auction features remarkable highlights from the Bay Area, including Arts & Crafts designs from the Getty’s Temple of Wings in Berkeley and Joseph Minutoli’s cast stone sculpture maquettes for the Rotunda of the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. Antique furniture highlights include Levantine inlaid pieces, Flemish tapestries, and sterling silver items.

The Decorative Arts section will present Tiffany Studios glass, Wedgwood fairyland luster, and 19th-century English ceramics and tiles. Modern and Contemporary design will showcase Paul Evans cabinets, custom-made furniture in the Art Deco style, and Studio glass and ceramics. Rounding out the sale are rugs and carpets, Pre-Columbian pottery, African tribal carvings, and other indigenous arts, ensuring a diverse and intriguing collection.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department will feature a striking Chinese fresco fragment depicting Buddhist figures, likely originating from a temple and dating back to the Yuan to early Ming dynasties. Another notable piece is a Tibetan parcel-gilt bronze figure of Vajrapani, regarded as one of the most important protectors and guides of Buddha. Completing this section is a group of four Chinese huanghuali fragments that once belonged to a mirror stand. These 17th/18th-century pieces are skillfully crafted with motifs of dragons and lingzhi, hinting at an imperial association.

The Warehouse Auction: November 23rd | 9:30 AM PST

The Warehouse auction offers a dynamic and diverse selection of art, prints, and photographs, with each month featuring a curated mix of paintings, sculptures, and works from across the globe, all with accessible estimates. The Asian Art section will showcase a thoughtfully curated array, including Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and other fine decorative items. In the Jewelry department, we are thrilled to present a range of affordable pieces, from diamonds to silver and gold necklaces. Additionally, the Warehouse offers a well-priced collection of modern and antique furniture, décor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, rugs, books, collectibles, and indigenous art, ensuring there’s something for every collector.

This November 21st starting 10 AM PST at our Fine Art Collectors Auction, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork, ranging from American folk art to modern abstract masterpieces.

Among our featured pieces are two paintings by renowned American folk artist, Charles Wysocki (American, 1928–2002). Born in Detroit, Wysocki was drafted into the Army, which led him to Los Angeles, where he met his wife, fellow artist Elizabeth G. Lawrence. Inspired by the rural lifestyles surrounding 1960s Los Angeles and the pastoral beauty of New England, Wysocki’s work reflects influences from prominent folk artists of the region. Notably, viewers will notice striking similarities between Wysocki’s landscapes and those of Anna Mary Robertson Moses, or Grandma Moses, known for her nostalgic depictions of New England. A deeper connection also exists with earlier artist Rufus Porter, whose whimsical yet precise portrayals of 19th-century Massachusetts and Connecticut resonate with Wysocki’s style.

In our November auction, we will feature two oil on canvas works titled Martha’s Vineyard and Quiltmakers. Martha’s Vineyard depicts a Massachusetts lighthouse and surrounding buildings in a late fall landscape, showcasing a palette of brown and red grass contrasted with patches of snow. Quiltmakers illustrates a quaint community quilt sale, featuring three vibrant, meticulously detailed quilts hanging on a clothesline. We estimate Martha’s Vineyard will sell for $10,000–$15,000 and Quiltmakers for $6,000–$9,000.

Another highlight of the auction is an oil on canvas painting by Quebec modernist, Paul-Emile Borduas (Canadian, 1905–1960). An artist from a young age, Borduas trained as a church restorer under self-taught artist, Ozias Leduc, and furthered his studies at the École des Beaux-Arts de Montréal. His time in Paris at the Ateliers d’Art Sacré helped him fuse his influences. Upon returning to Canada, Borduas became a pivotal figure in the Montreal art scene and founded the Automatistes, inspired by Surrealist André Breton’s ideas. His 1946 group exhibition was a landmark event in Canadian art history.

Later in his career, Borduas’ work took on a political dimension, as he advocated for the separation of church and state in Quebec, a stance that led to his dismissal from l’École du Meuble. Although he faced challenges during his lifetime, his influence became evident during the Quiet Revolution, culminating in the posthumous success of his painting Figures Schématiques, which sold for $3.6 million CAD in 2018. The untitled painting in our November auction exemplifies Borduas’ style, featuring textured impasto, stark black-and-white contrasts, and abstract forms that invite interpretation of his political and personal themes. This piece is estimated at $25,000–$35,000.

Other highlights this month include a painting by San Francisco Bay Area modernist Ruth Armer (American, 1896–1977), an oil by Texas landscape painter William Slaughter (American, 1923–2003), ceramics by Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), a selection of vintage French advertising posters, and much more.

We are also pleased to present two hyperrealist sculptures by Danish artist, Kurt Trampedach (Danish, 1943–2013). Known for his dark, evocative paintings influenced by Rembrandt and late 19th-century Symbolists, Trampedach often explored his mental states through figurative art. His sculptures, while less abundant, retain the emotional intensity of his paintings. The two pieces in our auction, Annette and Jonas, depict Trampedach’s wife and son, created in the early 1970s from plaster on steel frames. These lifelike figures convey a sense of solemn contemplation. Annette is estimated at $8,000–$12,000, while Jonas is estimated at $4,000–$6,000.

Clars in collaboration with exhibited.at is honored to host the discussion: Craftsmanship in the Realm of Analog and Digital on November 20th, which takes a closer look at the works of contemporary artists featured in our Artists to Watch Auction, Katie McCann and Carolina de Bartolo.

This event will take place on November 20th and run from 1–1:40 PM PST with Q&A to follow. The engaging panel, celebrating the Artists to Watch Auction on November 21st, brings together artists Katie McCann and Carolina de Bartolo, whose artworks featuring botanicals blend both tradition with innovation. Through contrasting approaches — McCann’s intricate, hand-cut collage work and de Bartolo’s AI-assisted compositions — the artists reveal how nature can be interpreted and reimagined within both analog and digital realms. The discussion will delve into the unique process of each artist as they walk us through their art, illuminating the varied landscapes of craftsmanship, creativity, and nature.

The discussion will be moderated by Rodania Leong, founder exhibited.at The Artists to Watch section (lots 2980–2993) will lead the Fine Art Collectors Auction on November 21st, starting at 10 AM PST.

Katie McCann is an English artist currently living in Berkeley, California who works primarily in collage and mixed media. Her work has been exhibited and sold across the USA, Europe and Asia and she has illustrated book and album covers. McCann’s artwork is also a part of the 60 Box Public Art Project in the City of Berkeley and she recently designed two labels for La Cidrerie du Condroz. McCann is one of 50 female collage artists to appear in the book Collage by Women: 50 Essential Contemporary Artists (Promopress Editions, 2019).

McCann creates intricate, hand cut collages which reflect her Victorian obsession with faeries, flora and fauna. From her extensive collection of books, prints and pages that are antique, forgotten and foxed with age, she cuts out images, categorizes them and then eventually pieces them together like a complex paper jigsaw puzzle. McCann’s collages are places where beauty is strange, creatures are curious and a sense of wonder prevails. At times they can be like tiny cabinets of curiosity reflecting the variety of the natural world and its peculiar beauty or they can become a wallpaper pattern, lush and dense, with hidden meanings and metaphors.

McCann shares, “Frost Flowers are a rare winter phenomenon where frozen air causes ice formations to bloom from plant stems, each unique and fleeting. Inspired by their delicate beauty and Giuseppe Arcimboldo’s floral portraits, I created a collage reflecting nature’s secrets.” The portrait is made of hundreds of hand-cut pieces of paper, featuring a headpiece of pearls, jewels, and flowers in shades of grey and white. Her face is crafted from tiny flowers, her dress from paper beads, and she wears a botanical sash, evoking a regal figure from an icy, magical realm. This piece celebrates the connection between humanity and the extraordinary occurrences in nature.

For California-based visual artist Carolina de Bartolo, generative AI is both a tool and an object of investigation. In her artistic practice, de Bartolo fuses old media and styles with new technologies to ask whether image-generating software is merely an extension of the collective memory, or can it truly create novel art? Central to her work are notions of remix and iteration influenced by her decades of experience in the fields of graphic design and typography. With the belief that images with universality better encourage spectator imagination and participation, de Bartolo seeks to create artworks that evoke familiarity over uncanniness as she explores intersections of human and machine creativity by considering the aesthetics of the past through contemporary contexts. In addition to her sought after expertise on AI art, Carolina de Bartolo is the author of the acclaimed book, Explorations in Typography and she was formerly the Creative Director at Art Blocks and taught at Academy of Art for over 20 years.

The piece in our November auction highlights a recurring motif in de Bartolo’s artwork—dandelions! These delicate flowers, often disdained as mere weeds, symbolize resilience, transformation, and the ephemeral nature of life. A gaggle of dandelions, bathed in the warm glow of a fiery vermillion sunrise, are presented in a style that blurs the lines between drawing and photography. Exhibited at the Sausalito Public Library in early 2024, this piece is presented as a hanging scroll, printed on archival paper and hung with wooden rods top and bottom. Both the central image of the dandelions and the surrounding “fabric” pattern are AI-generated, reflecting the artist’s ongoing exploration of the fusion between traditional artistic practices and cutting-edge technology.

The creation process begins with a prompt that defines the composition, color palette, and style, drawing inspiration from historical traditions and references to vintage artworks. These prompts are then iteratively refined and processed through various AI models, including image-to-image models, which are used to refine details, adjust lighting, color balance, and optimize the overall visual quality.

Founded by former Christie’s specialist Rodania Leong, exhibited.at focuses on art, community and innovation — empowering artists, curators, and galleries with the ability to archive their rich exhibition history while providing guidance on diverse art initiatives. Together with Clars — the exceptional art appraisers and auctioneers who have over fifty years of expertise in hosting Bay Area auctions — this collaboration harnesses the expertise of both exhibited.at and Clars.

Join us in celebrating the featured artists’ innovation and enduring impact! For more information or any questions, please reach out to [email protected] and [email protected].

This November at Clars we are highlighting artwork by two artists active in the Low Countries during the Baroque period, Rembrandt van Rijn and Jacob Ignatius Roore.

Firstly, an etching by Dutch Golden Age master, Rembrandt van Rijn (Dutch, 1606–1669), titled Woman Reading. Most often known solely by his first name, Rembrandt found success during his own lifetime within the Dutch Republic (now the Netherlands) as both a commissioned artist and a teacher of up-and-coming young painters. In the present day, Rembrandt is known as one of the most celebrated painters of the Dutch Golden Age and one of the greatest visual artists of all time. Rembrandt was a standout among his contemporaries in the Dutch Republic at the time because of his eclectic and wide-ranging embrace of varied subject matter and styles.

Some of his most famous scenes include The Night Watch, The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp, and Syndics of the Draper’s Guild, but Rembrandt is perhaps best known for his self-portraits, both paintings and prints. The etching in our November sale is an earlier example of Rembrandt’s printmaking, many of which were printed by the artist’s own hand with his personal printing press. The etching in this month’s auction depicts a woman, wearing a scarf over her hair and pressing one hand to her chest, hunched over an open book. The simple and intimate scene is typical of Rembrandt’s etchings, which are often genre scenes or portraits that convey a sense of warmth and familiarity. Woman Reading is being offered with an estimate of $10,000–$15,000.

Another artist active in the Low Countries, Jacob Ignatius Roore (Flemish/Belgian, 1686–1747), also known as Jacques Ignace de Roore, was born in Antwerp in the midst of the Baroque period in Flanders. Both his mother and father were involved in the arts themselves, and during his teenage years, Roore trained with the internationally respected painter and engraver, Abraham Genoels II. After studying in several other academies and under the tutelage of well-regarded artists, Roore honed his drawing and painting skills. Rather than channeling his own creative imagination, he first found work as a copyist of popular painters at time, including Peter Paul Rubens and David Teniers II. Roore also worked for much of his career as a restorer and a painter of decorative interior works for wealthy patrons in Belgium and the Dutch Republic.

Roore’s own original works often depict scenes from mythology and history, most frequently Christian and Ancient Greek stories. The oil on canvas painting in this month’s auction is titled Bacchanalia and shows a scene filled with satyrs, putti, food, nudity, and revelry within a forested landscape. The subject matter is taken from stories of the Greek god Dionysus, renamed in Roman mythology as Bacchus, who is most well-known today as the god of winemaking and fruit. Roore’s portrayal is distinctly Baroque in form, with clear inspiration from his Flemish Renaissance predecessors in the jewel tones and detailed anatomy of the figures, alongside the classical overtones of the painting’s theme. Bacchanalia will be offered with an estimate of $6,000–$9,000.

Niamh Barry is a distinguished Irish artist and designer celebrated for her innovative light fixtures that seamlessly fuse exceptional craftsmanship with a deep appreciation for materials like copper and glass.

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.

Highlights from our October 18th Auction include contemporary design pieces, a collection of Japanese and Western art from the esteemed Mitsui family, wristwatches from renowned manufacturers, and works from the private collection of architecture and design firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM).

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The gallery sale on Friday will present a diverse assortment of sterling silver, porcelain, glass, furniture, Indigenous art, and carpets. Notable items include antique accessories from Palais Royal and Vizagapatam, as well as an Antoine Bourdelle bronze Medusa door knocker. Contemporary works from acclaimed artists such as Preston Singletary, Chihuly, Beatrice Wood, Gambone, Adrian Persal, Harry Bertoia, and Niamh Barry will also be featured, ensuring a wide range of styles and artistic expressions.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

Clars is excited to announce its October Fine Watches and Jewelry Auction, set to take place on Friday, October 18th, starting at 9:30 AM PDT. This event will feature an exceptional collection of over ninety wristwatches from renowned German, Swiss, Japanese, and French manufacturers, including prestigious brands like Maurice Lacroix, Grand Seiko, Longines, Nomos, Farer, Certina, Omega, and Junghans. With a diverse array of styles and finishes, this selection caters to both seasoned collectors and enthusiastic newcomers alike.

In addition to the timepieces, the auction will showcase a stunning array of fine jewelry designed to enhance any collection. Highlights include classic pearls, exquisite gold pieces, and dazzling diamond creations, alongside rare gemstones such as vibrant sapphires and rich emeralds. This comprehensive offering makes the auction a must-attend event for jewelry aficionados and watch enthusiasts.

Fine Art

Clars’ Fine Art department is pleased to announce a selection of works from the private collection of the renowned architecture and design firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in our upcoming auction. Among the highlights is a captivating 1962 oil on canvas titled Windswept by Carl Morris (American, 1911–1993), with an estimated value of $6,000– $9,000. This piece, along with others by Morris, has seen increased interest in recent years due to the artist’s significant contributions to mid-century art.

Another standout work from the SOM collection is Pyramid by Alan J. Shields (American, 1944–2005). This piece is a whimsical painted and beaded canvas showcasing Shield’s playful style, estimated at $5,000–$7,000. Additional works by notable artists such as Margo Hoff, Gideon Jacques Denny, and Mark Adams will also be included in the auction.

Asian Art

The Asian Art segment will feature a remarkable group of nine stoneware pieces by Morino Taimei (born 1934), hailing from a private collection. Taimei’s work is represented in esteemed institutions, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Additionally, a rare 18th century Tibetan thangka depicting the Buddha will be offered, providing a glimpse into the rich history and artistry of the region.

The Warehouse Auction: October 19th

The Warehouse Auction features an eclectic mix of art, prints, and photographs, with each month bringing a diverse selection of paintings, prints, and sculptures from around the globe, all with accessible estimates. The Asian Art Department will present a carefully curated assortment, including Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and various decorative pieces. In the Jewelry Department, we are excited to offer a range of affordable items, from diamonds to silver and gold necklaces. The Warehouse boasts an accessible priced collection that encompasses modern and antique furniture and décor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, collectible toys, books, and indigenous arts. Collections include opaline glass, Tartanware, Russian lacquer boxes and Bjørn Wiinblad porcelain.

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on fine paintings, prints and sculpture.

Clars’ Fine Art Specialists will be in the following areas to offer private and confidential in home appointments: San Francisco | Carmel | Palo Alto | San Rafael | Healdsburg

To schedule your appointment, call (510) 428-0100 x 123 OR email [email protected]

Clars Auctions is delighted to present a collection of Japanese and Western art from the esteemed Mitsui (Koishikawa) family, a prominent business dynasty with roots dating back to the Edo period, in our October 18th Auction.

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.

The Genesis of Rolex

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 Classic Oyster Perpetual

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.

Early Innovations

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 Datejust Era

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.

Speed & Precision

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 Submariner’s Depths

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 Elegance of Gold

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.

Epilogue: A Legacy of Excellence

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.

Clars is thrilled to present our Important Fall Fine Art Auction on Thursday, September 19th, at 1 PM PDT. This exciting event will feature a diverse selection of remarkable pieces from William Merritt Chase, Pablo Picasso, Yayoi Kusama, and much more.

One of the most exciting pieces up for auction is an exceptional oil on panel painting by renowned American Impressionist, William Merritt Chase (American, 1849–1916). Titled A Mother’s Joy and created in 1889, this piece measures 17″ x 17″ (43.2 x 43.2 cm) and is signed by the artist. It carries an estimated value of $600,000–$900,000 USD. The painting’s provenance includes its acquisition by New Jersey Governor Franklin Murphy from Fifth Avenue Art Galleries in 1891, and it has been exhibited in notable venues such as the Society of American Artists and the Chicago Interstate Industrial Exposition. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from D. Frederick Baker and Ronald G. Pisano, Inc., this painting is a significant highlight of the auction.

Another standout in the auction is a ceramic pitcher by the legendary artist, Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973). Best known for his revolutionary Cubist paintings, Picasso also made significant contributions to ceramic art. This particular pitcher, titled Piquet Gothique aux Oiseaux with estimate of $8,000–$12,000, showcases Picasso’s distinctive style with its simplified painting technique and depiction of three black birds. The pitcher, crafted in 1953, is a testament to Picasso’s prolific work in ceramics, a medium he explored extensively after his initial visit to the Madoura pottery studio in Vallauris, France.

The Important Fall Fine Art Auction will also feature a striking photograph by photographer, Helmut Newton (Australian/German, 1920–2004). Known for his dramatic black-and-white compositions and collaborations with major fashion designers, Newton’s work has been influential in the world of fashion photography. The gelatin silver print offered in this sale, titled Vogue, France, Yves St. Laurent, Paris, captures Yves Saint Laurent’s collection inspired by film noir aesthetics, and exemplifies Newton’s iconic style of high drama and eroticism. This photograph will be offered at $10,000–$15,000.

Several collectable and notable prints will also be offered in the September auction. Among them are two woodblock prints by artist, Gustave Baumann (American/German, 1881–1971), who is celebrated for his revival of the woodblock technique in the U.S. The two available prints, Spring Freshet valued at $5,000–$7,000 and The Sycamore at $6,000–$9,000, both highlight Baumann’s mastery in depicting southwestern U.S. landscapes.

An amazing print by the ever-popular Pop Art icon, Yayoi Kusama (Japanese, b. 1929), will also be up for auction. The screenprint, A Pumpkin BB-C, which reflects her famous pumpkin in vibrant blue, is priced to sell at $20,000–$30,000. This is a must have for any Kusama fan and a perfect piece just in time for fall.

The sale will continue with even more memorable prints including a 1978/79 Untitled etching by Minimalist, Donald Judd (American, 1928–1994), priced at $5,000–$7,000 and two spectacular prints by pop artist, Roy Lichtenstein (American, 1923–1997). Lichtenstein’s famous Crak offset lithograph from 1964 will be on the block at $10,000– $15,000 along with his small edition pencil signed print created for Guild Hall East Hampton at $5,000–$7,000.

From the Pacific Rim and estimated at $15,000–$20,000, Clars will be offering an elegant, yet colorful painting from 1963 by artist, Cheong Soo Pieng (Singaporean, 1917–1983). Heading north, a magnificent, oil on canvas by Contemporary artist, Liao Zhenwu (Chinese, b. 1964), titled The Story of Meditation, will be offered for $5,000–$7,000. Always a favorite among collectors is South Asian artist, Jamini Roy (Indian, 1887–1972). Known for capturing the essence of simplicity in the life of the Indian people, a classic gouache on paper, Untitled (Seated Figure), is another of the many highlights at Clars Auctions on September 19th and will be available for $7,000–$10,000.

The Important Fall Fine Art Auction will have many other notable artists represented. One such artist is S.C. Yuan (Chinese/American, 1911–1974), who is known as one of the foremost painters of the Monterey Peninsula. The two untitled paintings in this month’s sale depict a conversation between two figures, estimated at $3,000–$5,000, and a barn, estimated at $6,000–$9,000. Both showcase the restrained palette preferred by the artist.

Another more contemporary California work on paper by Funk Art pioneer, Roy De Forest (American, 1930–2007), with an auction estimate of $6,000–$9,000, will be offered. De Forest was a major figure in Bay Area modern art during the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, and he was also a key member of the faculty at U.C. Davis. De Forest taught alongside fellow California icons, including Wayne Thiebaud, William T. Wiley, and Robert Arneson. Alongside this piece we will also be offering a striking work by another California artist, Sam Francis, estimated at $8,000–$12,000.

Clars is also pleased to offer several contemporary works of sculpture which round out our diverse collection this month. Included is a work by Vivian Wang (Chinese, b. 1945) featuring a glass figure of a seated child with a red and black painted hat and outfit with an auction estimate of $3,000–$5,000. Wang began her career as a fashion designer before transitioning to fine art. She is known for glass figural sculptures that pay homage to her Chinese heritage. Another striking piece in this group is a mixed media sculpture by American artist Peter Anton (American, b. 1963) depicting an ice cream bar, valued at $4,000–$6,000. Anton is known for his hyperrealist sculptures of dessert foods. Also included in the sculpture section is an anemone-like glass cube by Wilfried Grootens (German, b. 1954) with an estimate of $3,000–$5,000 as well as a glass mime figure by Martin Janecky (Czech, b. 1980) with an estimate of $4,000–$6,000.