March Highlights

  • Auction

Clars’ March 17th and 18th auctions will offer beautiful Chinese watercolor paintings, fine works of art ranging from El Greco to Andy Warhol, rare gold and silver coins and bars, and a nice selection of diamond jewelry in time for bridal season.

Asian Art

On March 18th, Clars’ Asian Art department will present two fine modern Chinese watercolor landscape paintings. The first painting is by Ou Haonian (b. 1935) and depicts Taipei, Taiwan’s Mount Shamao. The second painting is of a village scene and is attributed to 20th century Chinese watercolor master, Li Keran (1907–1989).


Haonian (b. 1935), Mount Shamao
Ou Haonian (b. 1935), Mount Shamao.
To be offered: March 18th

Both paintings hail from the estate of Albert and Aiko Hyderman. Albert Hyderman (1899–1992) was a successful businessman and art collector. Hyderman was the owner of P. Wiest and Son department store in York, Pennsylvania. Hyderman was also a close friend and patron of Thomas Hart Benton, the regionalist painter from Missouri. Upon his retirement, Albert and his family spent many winters residing in Italy and ultimately in Hong Kong, where he collected numerous famous Chinese watercolor paintings.


Village Scene
Attributed to Li Keran (1907–1989), Village Scene.
To be offered: March 18th

Fine Arts

This March at Clars, we will be offering an intriguing piece from the circle of Domḗnikos Theotokópoulos, better known as El Greco, one of the leading figures of Spanish Renaissance painting. El Greco is known for his mannerist modeling of figures, sfumato color palette, and expressionistic compositions which were underappreciated in his own time but have since found recognition for their innovation in the modern era. The piece in our March auction is an oil on canvas painting depicting Christ carrying the cross surrounded by Roman soldiers. Spanish art historian, Manuel B. Cossio, an expert on the artist who published the defining treatise on his life and work in 1908, affirmed in a letter dating to 1930 that this depiction of Christ is an original by El Greco.

Furthermore, figures in this painting are replicated in other works known to be painted by El Greco, including the figure on horseback, as seen in Saint Martin and the Beggar, and the soldier on the far right, who is seen again in The Martyrdom of Saint Maurice. The work in our March sale, ascribed to the circle of El Greco, is estimated at $20,000–$40,000.


Circle of El Greco, Untitled (Christ with the Cross on his Back and the Roman Soldiers)
Circle of El Greco (Greek, 1541–1614), Untitled (Christ with the Cross on his Back and the Roman Soldiers), oil on canvas, 41.25″ x 33.25″.
To be offered: March 17th

Also to be featured in our March auction, is a mixed media piece by Bay Area figure, Roy De Forest. De Forest moved from Washington State to the Bay Area during the 1950s, where he earned two art degrees and began teaching. While working at U.C. Davis, De Forest and his peers exhibited under the heading of Funk Art, and later began the Nut Art movement, which embraced humor and eccentricity. The piece in this month’s auction displays De Forest’s signature use of bright color and faux-naif style, with saturated objects decorating the paper in a seemingly random and playful configuration. This piece by Roy De Forest is estimated at $6,000–$9,000.


Roy Dean De Forest, Untitled (Drawing)
Roy Dean De Forest (American, 1930–2007), Untitled (Drawing), 1971, mixed media on paper, 21.25″ x 29.5″.
To be offered: March 17th

A third highlight in our March auction is a bronze sculpture by American artist, Douglas Van Howd, known for his portrayals of the American West. This sculpture, titled Friends of Freedom, depicts a golden eagle leaping from the arm of an Apache man, who stands on a base of genuine petrified wood. First received by Ronald Reagan after being created for the Roosevelt Room of the White House in 1982, this piece comes from an edition of 50. Van Howd’s Western-themed artworks have earned him a following both within and outside of the United States, with Friends of Freedom being a favorite among collectors. This sculpture by Douglas Van Howd is estimated at $10,000–$15,000.


Douglas Van Howd, Friends of Freedom
Douglas Van Howd (American, b. 1935), Friends of Freedom, 1982, bronze sculpture on petrified wood base, 73″ x 40″ x24″.
To be offered: March 17th

A work on paper by American Pop Art icon, Andy Warhol, is also being offered on March 17th. The mixed media piece shows an ice cream cone with scoops of red, pink, and white ice cream atop a cone that is decorated with playful line work reminiscent of Art Nouveau design. This work is one in a series of ice cream themed designs drawn by Warhol during the 1950s and was likely inspired by the collaborative coloring parties that the burgeoning artist would host at Serendipity 3, the New York dessert café at which he was a lifelong patron. This work by Andy Warhol is estimated at $25,000–$35,000.


Andy Warhol, Triple Scoop
Andy Warhol (American, 1928–1987), Triple Scoop, circa 1950s, mixed media on paper, estate/foundation stamped verso, 12″ x 9″. Provenance: Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California). Ms. Barnes was a Hollywood film actress featured in movies such as Auntie Mame (1958) and The Parent Trap (1961).
To be offered: March 17th

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Clars is pleased to offer the largest single owner precious metals collection in the gallery’s history. This collection includes uncirculated gold coins, silver bars, silver coins, and presentation coins, some in unopened containers. In all, close to forty lots are expected to bring more than $750,000. This collection will be a highlight of our fine silver and virtu being offered on March 18th.


Large single owner collection of gold and silver coins and bars.
Large single owner collection of gold and silver coins and bars.
To be offered: March 18th

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department at Clars Auction Gallery is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry, in their upcoming March 17th sale.


A diamond and fourteen karat gold bracelet.
A diamond and fourteen karat gold bracelet.
To be offered: March 17th

This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points. A nice selection of diamond jewelry, in time for bridal season, includes a diamond and fourteen karat gold bracelet, estimated at $2,000–$4,000, and a diamond and fourteen karat white gold reviére necklace, estimated at $4,000–$6,000. A colorful gemstone selection, including a pair of ruby, diamond and eighteen karat white gold earrings, estimated at $1,500–$2,500, and an untreated black opal, diamond and sapphire ring, estimated at $3,000–$5,000, will be offered. Other wearable timepieces that will highlight your everyday life are represented by an eighteen karat gold wristwatch, Chronograph, Hamilton, estimated at $800–$1,200, and a titanium wristwatch, Porsche Design, estimated at $800–$1,200.


A black opal, diamond and sapphire ring.
A black opal, diamond and sapphire ring.
To be offered: March 17th
Bidding for Clars’ March 17th and 18th auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC).

In the last 5 years, Clars Auction Gallery has sold well over $150,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

Read More

Spring Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction

Clars’ Spring Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on April 14th includes a fine selection of colored gemstones, diamonds, antique and signed jewelry, and timepieces.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

Spring Design Auction

Clars is starting Spring with our Design Auction, to be held on March 16, 2023 at 10 AM PST.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

Clars’ February 9th Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Auction will feature artwork from an array of international artists.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

February Highlights

Our February 10th and 11th Auctions will offer stunning jade from China, rare furniture and collectibles, and Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry from private estates.

  • Auction

January Highlights

The Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California), will highlight Clars’ January auctions.

  • Auction

Winter Auctions Highlights

The December auction series will include the Winter Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on December 16th and the Winter Design + Art + Asian Art Auction on December 18th.

  • Auction

2022 Asian Art In Review

  • Asian Art
  • Stories & News

2022 saw wonderful auction results at Clars, with outstanding Asian Art sales throughout the year.

Winter Highlights

Starting off the year strong, Clars’ Asian Art department sold a pair of Chinese doucai enameled globular vases for $87,500 in January. Each vase is painted on the exterior with eight bats amidst stylized lotus petals all between ornate scrolling lotus and vine patterns.


Pair of Chinese doucai enameled globular vases.
Pair of Chinese doucai enameled globular vases.
Sold: $87,500

Another highlight from the January sale is represented by the Chinese huanghuali corner leg table, which sold for $93,750. With small supply of wood, the availability of furniture made from it is limited. The highly figured, honey-hued wood has long been appreciated for its mountain peak and ghost face patterns. Huanghuali furniture can be incorporated into any type of decor to create a more traditional Chinese style in your home, or you can choose to mix and match with more contemporary decor.


Chinese huanghuali corner leg table.
Chinese huanghuali corner leg table, top and front view.
Sold: $93,750

Spring Highlights

A finely molded Dingyao bowl, featuring lotus and other aquatic plants, headlined Clars’ April Asian Art Auction. The beautiful piece did not disappoint, selling for $100,000. The Song dynasty bowl was acquired from the late Chingwah Lee Collection of San Francisco and sold at Sotheby’s Los Angeles Fine Oriental Art Sale on June 8th, 1981.


Chinese molded Dingyao bowl
Chinese molded Dingyao bowl. Provenance: Sotheby’s Parke Bernet Los Angeles, The Late Chingwah Lee Collection, June 8, 1981, lot 263, from San Francisco collection formed over five decades.
Sold: $100,000

The furniture portion of the April sale was highlighted by a pair of 18th century huanghuali horseshoe-back armchairs. The armchairs feature decorative carved panels on the backs with auspicious floral groupings and mythical creatures. The armchairs were a sought after piece and ended up being the top lot of the sale, selling at $200,000.


Pair of Chinese huanghuali horseshoe-back armchairs.Sold: $200,000
Pair of Chinese huanghuali horseshoe-back armchairs.
Sold: $200,000

Summer Highlights

Dozens of telephone bidders vyed for two Chinese imperial bronze ‘dragon’ vases. These vases soared well above estimate to realize a price of $245,000. Each features five-clawed dragons in pursuit of flaming pearls amid scrolling clouds in low relief. The precision and intricacy of the molding indicates the imperial origin, while the patina on the surface demonstrates the age.


Asian Art Dragon Vases
Left: Chinese imperial bronze ‘dragon’ vase, Mark and Period of Qianlong. Right: Chinese imperial bronze ‘dragon’ vase, mark and period of Jiaqing.
Sold: $245,000

Fall Highlights

A strong San Francisco Bay Area collection of archer’s rings led the Asian Art portion of Clars’ Fine Collectors Auction on November 20th. The sale included nearly 40 lots of imperial quality white jade, celadon jade, jadeite, agate, glass, enamel, and various organic material archer’s rings. The collector acquired this impressive collection throughout 1970s to 1990s from various important dealers and estates in the Bay Area, including Ching Wah Lee, Herb Newman, and Sandra Sakata, among others.


Chinese enameled silver openwork archer’s
(lot of 2) Chinese enameled silver openwork archer’s rings.
Sold: $8,450

Read More

International Women’s Day

Clars is celebrating International Women’s Day by highlighting the career of Greta Grossman, one of the leading female designers of the mid-20th Century.

  • Designer Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Annual Tea | The Junior League of San Francisco

The Junior League of SF held its Annual Tea on March 5th where Clars was invited to showcase and discuss pieces from the 1960's relating to the event’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s theme.

  • Event
  • Stories & News

2022 Design In Review

Clars had a strong 2022 Design auction season with bidders vying for the top lots.

  • Design
  • Stories & News

2022 Fine Jewelry & Timepieces In Review

Clars’ Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department had a successful year, offering essential everyday luxury as well as fine and important jewelry and timepieces.

  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces
  • Stories & News

Cocktails, Conversation & Valuations | City Club of San Francisco

On February 22nd, the The City Club invited Clars Auction Gallery to an evening of Cocktails, Conversation & Valuations.

  • Event
  • Stories & News

2022 Fine Art In Review

2022 saw wonderful auction results at Clars, with outstanding Fine Art sales doing 42% of total sales for the fiscal year.

  • Fine Art
  • Stories & News

February Highlights

  • Auction

Our February 10th and 11th Auctions will offer stunning jade from China, rare furniture and collectibles, and Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry from private estates.

Asian Art

On February 11th, the Asian Art department will feature two fine Chinese jade lots comprising a set of imperial quality Chinese white jade belt buckle and associated ornaments depicting dragons and cranes from the 18th to 19th century.


Chinese white jade
Set of Chinese white jade belt buckle and pair of ornaments.
Estimate: $6,000–$9,000

The other lot is a Republic Period Mughal style celadon jade vase and linked cover finely carved in low relief with bamboo, prunus and chrysanthemum along with a pair of magpies. It also has a pair of openwork peony handles and a finial, all set with a linking chain. It is estimated at $4,000–$6,000.


Mughal style celadon jade vase and linked cover.
Mughal style celadon jade vase and linked cover.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000

Another imperial quality piece being offered in this month’s auction is a 18th century Chinese mother-of-pearl inlaid black lacquered box and cover, which is decorated with a stylized longevity character painted in gold lacquer, surrounded by a profusion of floral roundels inlaid with mother-of-pearl.


Chinese mother-of-Pearl inlaid black lacquer box
Chinese mother-of-Pearl inlaid black lacquer box and cover.
Estimate: $6,0000–$9,000

Furniture & Decorative Arts

There will be a fine selection of furniture, porcelains, coins, silver, and other objects de vertu in our February 10th sale. Highlights include a pair of French Napoleonic demilune bronze mounted tables circa 1850, estimated at $3,000–$5,000.


A rare pair of French brass inlaid and bronze mounted Demilune tables
A rare pair of French brass inlaid and bronze mounted Demilune tables, 19th century.
Estimate: $3,000–$5,000
Camera
Selection of Camera equipment including a Leica M2.
Estimate: $1,000–$1,500

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department is excited to offer a selection of antique diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry in their upcoming February 10th sale.


February Jewelry Highlights
Left: An antique diamond and eighteen karat gold pendant. Estimate: $1,200–$1,800
Right: A pair of emerald, diamond and fourteen karat bi-color gold earrings. Estimate: $1,500–$2,500

This sale features a variety of lovely new and old wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points, including a colorful gemstone selection with an Art Deco star sapphire and diamond ring, estimated at $800–$1,200 and a pair of emerald, diamond and fourteen karat bi-color gold earrings, estimated at $1,500–$2,500. Other exquisite pieces that will highlight your everyday life are represented by an Edwardian diamond and platinum pendant brooch, estimated at $2,000–$4,000, and an antique diamond and eighteen karat gold pendant, estimated at $1,200–$1,800.


February Jewelry Highlights
Top: An Art Deco diamond, sapphire and platinum ring. Estimate: $800–$1,200
Bottom: An Edwardian diamond and platinum pendant brooch. Estimate: $2,000–$4,000
Bidding for Clars’ February 2023 auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC).

In the last 5 years, Clars Auction Gallery has sold well over $125,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook and Twitter!

Read More

Spring Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction

Clars’ Spring Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on April 14th includes a fine selection of colored gemstones, diamonds, antique and signed jewelry, and timepieces.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Highlights

Our March 17th and 18th auctions will offer beautiful Chinese watercolor paintings, artwork ranging from El Greco to Andy Warhol, rare gold and silver coins, and a nice selection of diamond jewelry.

  • Auction

Spring Design Auction

Clars is starting Spring with our Design Auction, to be held on March 16, 2023 at 10 AM PST.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

Clars’ February 9th Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Auction will feature artwork from an array of international artists.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

January Highlights

The Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California), will highlight Clars’ January auctions.

  • Auction

Winter Auctions Highlights

The December auction series will include the Winter Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on December 16th and the Winter Design + Art + Asian Art Auction on December 18th.

  • Auction

January Highlights

  • Auction

The Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California), will highlight Clars’ January auctions.

Asian Art

A selection of woodblock prints will lead the Asian Section of the January auctions. Among the woodblock prints created by the great Shin-hanga artist, Kawase Hasui (1883–1957), is the design Zojo Temple, Shiba, commissioned in 1925. Zojo Temple, Shiba is regarded as Hasui’s most outstanding and iconic creation. Among collectors of Japanese prints of the Shin-hanga movement, it is one of the most sought-after and valuable designs.


Kawase Hasui prints
Left: Kawase Hasui (1883–1957) Shiba Zojoji (Zojoji Temple, Shiba). Right: Kawase Hasui (1883–1957) Nara Kasuga jinja (Kasuga Shrine, Nara). To be offered: January 16th

Fine Art

Clars is pleased to be offering the Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California). Ms. Barnes was a Hollywood film actress featured in movies such as Auntie Mame (1958) and The Parent Trap (1961). Mr. Warner was a prominent architect featured in numerous issues of Architectural Digest. One of the highlights from the estate is a large monotype (diptych) by Charles Arnoldi (American, b. 1946), Untitled (GTW-CA-SF-3-86), estimated at $12,000–$18,000. This colorful work exemplifies Arnoldi’s bold style.


Untitled (GTW-CA-SF-3-86)
Charles Arnoldi (American, b. 1946), Untitled (GTW-CA-SF-3-86), 1986, monotype (diptych), 78″ x 85.5″. To be offered: January 13th

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Clars’ Furniture & Decorative Arts department will be offering a selection of Spanish Colonial religious figures including a Spanish Colonial santos figure, 18th century, with inset glass eyes and painted details, overall 22″h estimated at $2,000–$4,000, and a Spanish Colonial gilt and polychrome decorated santos figure, retaining original pigment decorated face with glass eyes, and traces of pigment to the body, 37″h x 28″w, also with a $2,000–$4,000 estimate. Rounding out the sale, our fine silver and Vertu department will offer a selection of fine sterling silver from important Bay Area estates and collections.


Spanish Colonial santos figure
Spanish Colonial santos figure. To be offered: January 13th

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department at Clars is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry, in their upcoming January 13th sale. This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points, including a colorful gemstone selection with a jadeite and fourteen karat gold ring, estimated at $800–$1,200, and an opal, diamond and fourteen karat gold pendant necklace, estimated at $2,500–$3,500. Other wearable pieces that will highlight your everyday life are featured by makers such as Tiffany & Co., represented in a coral and eighteen karat gold brooch, estimated at $1,200–$1,800.


a jadeite and fourteen karat gold ring
A jadeite and fourteen karat gold ring.
To be offered: January 13th
Bidding for Clars’ January 2023 auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, and live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC).

In the last 5 years, Clars Auction Gallery has sold well over $125,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook and Twitter!

Read More

Spring Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction

Clars’ Spring Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on April 14th includes a fine selection of colored gemstones, diamonds, antique and signed jewelry, and timepieces.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Highlights

Our March 17th and 18th auctions will offer beautiful Chinese watercolor paintings, artwork ranging from El Greco to Andy Warhol, rare gold and silver coins, and a nice selection of diamond jewelry.

  • Auction

Spring Design Auction

Clars is starting Spring with our Design Auction, to be held on March 16, 2023 at 10 AM PST.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

Clars’ February 9th Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Auction will feature artwork from an array of international artists.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

February Highlights

Our February 10th and 11th Auctions will offer stunning jade from China, rare furniture and collectibles, and Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry from private estates.

  • Auction

Winter Auctions Highlights

The December auction series will include the Winter Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on December 16th and the Winter Design + Art + Asian Art Auction on December 18th.

  • Auction

Winter Auctions Highlights

  • Auction

The December 16th–18th auction series will include the Winter Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction and the Winter Design + Art + Asian Art Auction.

Jewelry & Timepieces

Clars is thrilled to host their Winter Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on Friday, December 16th, beginning at 10 AM PST. The sale includes a fine selection of diamond, colored gemstone, antique and signed jewelry.

The sale is highlighted by a selection of important diamonds, which includes lot 5241, a 4.01 carats VVS1 Fancy Yellow diamond, diamond and eighteen karat white gold ring, estimated at $40,000–$60,000; and lot 5229, a 7.75 carats old European-cut diamond ring, estimated at $25,000–$35,000.


Fancy Yellow diamond ring.
A Fancy Yellow diamond, diamond and eighteen karat white gold ring.
Estimate: $40,000–$60,000

Complementing the auction will be exceptional gemstones, including lot 5043, a 13.64 carats Colombian emerald ring, estimated at $15,000–$25,000; lot 5244, a natural pearl, diamond and platinum pendant, estimated at $10,000–$20,000; and lot 5033, a jadeite “A” jade, diamond and platinum ring, estimated at $6,000–$9,000.


December Diamonds
Left: A diamond and white gold brooch, Van Cleef & Arpels. Estimate: $25,000–$35,000
Right: A pair of diamond ear clips, Van Cleef & Arpels. Estimate: $10,000–$20,000

Makers, such as Van Cleef & Arpels, are represented in lot 5246, a diamond and white gold brooch, estimated at $25,000–$35,000, and lot 5247, a pair of diamond ear clips, estimated at $10,000–$20,000. Tiffany & Co. is represented in lot 5005, a sapphire, diamond and palladium bracelet, estimated at $5,000–$7,000. Lot 5069, a pair of coral, onyx, emerald and diamond pendant earrings, will present Cartier, estimated at $8,000–$12,000.


An early Rolex small crown Submariner wristwatch, ref 6205.
An early Rolex small crown Submariner wristwatch, ref 6205.
Estimate: $50,000–$70,000

Also leading the sale is a selection of timepieces led by lot 5184, an early Rolex small crown Submariner wristwatch, ref 6205, estimated at $50,000–$70,000; lot 5178, an eighteen karat gold wristwatch, ‘Hourglass,’ Patek Phillepe, estimated at $4,000–$6,000; and lot 5177, an eighteen karat rose gold wristwatch, Tri-Compax Chronograph, Universal Geneve, estimated at $3,000–$5,000.

Design

The December 18th auction will be led with Design. There will be a large selection of pottery including several pieces by Toshiko Takaezu. Takaezu, a Hawaiian ceramicist of Japanese descent, is most well known for her ‘Closed forms.’ Clars is pleased to offer four ‘Closed Forms’ in the auction; the largest, a ‘Closed Form (with rattle),’ commanding a conservative estimate of $4,000–$6000. Other designers include Viola Frey and Jim Melchert, among other Clay Funk potters.


Closed Forms
Toshiko Takaezu (American/Japanese, 1922–2011), ‘Closed Forms.’
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000

Another highlight of the sale will be a Napoleone Martinuzzi Incaminciato vase, estimated at $8,000–$12,000. Incaminciato glass is a Murano glass technique that overlays lattimo (or milk glass) with layers of transparent colored glass, in this case cobalt blue. There will also be numerous noteworthy Italian glass items on offer by various designers such as Carlo Scarpa, Fontana Arte, Vittorio Zecchin, etc.


Napoleone Martinuzzi, Incamiciato vase.
Napoleone Martinuzzi, Incamiciato vase.
Estimate: $8,000–$12,000

Beyond pottery and glass, there will also be a fine collection of furniture, including a Mathews Furniture Shops fall front desk estimated at $3,500–$4,500. Numerous noteworthy names will be featured, including Charles and Ray Eames, John Dickinson, Mies Van Der Rohe, George Nakashima, Vladimir Kagan Couture, etc.


Mathews Furniture Shops Desk.
Mathews Furniture Shops Desk.
Estimate: $3,500–$4,500

Asian Art

The Asian Art department will offer a fine group of Chinese scholar’s rocks hailing from a Piedmont, CA collection. The collection consists of rocks of various forms suggesting mountain landscapes as well as an array of abstract imagery evoking mythical animals and sagely figures. The collection also features rocks of various sizes ranging from the small desktop variety to the imposing variety used for furnishing scholar’s studios and gardens.


Chinese scholar’s rocks
Fine selection of Chinese scholar’s rocks from a Piedmont, CA collection.
Estimate: $3,200–$4,700

Also up for auction is set of three watercolor paintings by the famous Burmese artist, Mg Tun Hla (1874–1946). Hla was one of the first and most important Burmese artists who painted in Western watercolor style in the early 20th century. The three watercolors depict street scenes from Mandalay, the former capitol of Burma.


watercolor paintings
(lot of 3) Mg Tun Hla (Burmese, 1874–1946) watercolor paintings.
Estimate: $1,500–$2,500

Fine Art

Clars Fine Art department is excited to offer two ceramic pitchers by Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973). The two works, titled Visage and Quatre Visage, were both produced at the Madoura de Vallauris workshop in the 1950’s and have Picasso and Madoura stamped beneath. They will be offered at $6,000–$9,000 and $4,000–$6,000.


Picasso pitchers
Left: Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Visage (A. R. 288), 1955, terre de faience pitcher, painted in colors and partially glazed, 12″ x 4″ x 5″. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Right: Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Quatre visages (A.R. 436), 1959, white terre de faience pitcher with colored engobe and glaze, 9″ x 5.5″ x 7.5″. Estimate: $4,000–$6,000
Bidding for Clars’ December 16–18, 2022 auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, and live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC).

In the last 5 years, Clars Auction Gallery has sold well over $125,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook and Twitter!

Read More

Spring Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction

Clars’ Spring Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on April 14th includes a fine selection of colored gemstones, diamonds, antique and signed jewelry, and timepieces.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Highlights

Our March 17th and 18th auctions will offer beautiful Chinese watercolor paintings, artwork ranging from El Greco to Andy Warhol, rare gold and silver coins, and a nice selection of diamond jewelry.

  • Auction

Spring Design Auction

Clars is starting Spring with our Design Auction, to be held on March 16, 2023 at 10 AM PST.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

Clars’ February 9th Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Auction will feature artwork from an array of international artists.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

February Highlights

Our February 10th and 11th Auctions will offer stunning jade from China, rare furniture and collectibles, and Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry from private estates.

  • Auction

January Highlights

The Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California), will highlight Clars’ January auctions.

  • Auction

Fine Collectors Auction Highlights

  • Auction

On November 20th Clars will hold our Fine Collectors Auction. This auction is devoted to outstanding property from fine estates and collections, including 18th through 20th century furniture, decorative art, Native American basketry, and gold coins.

Fine Art

Clars Fine Art department is excited to feature a Tom Wesselmann (American, 1931–2004) original work from his iconic series Great American Nude in the November 20th auction. The oil and mixed media work, titled The Great American Nude #13, was completed in 1962 and is an early example of the series, which he completed in 1973 with number #100. The work demonstrates the artist’s use of bold color and military imagery, along with his famous female nude form — the recurring subject throughout his career. The artwork is estimated at $50,000–$70,000.


The Great American Nude
Tom Wesselmann (American, 1931–2004), The Great American Nude #13, 1962, oil, fabric, and collage cut-outs on tin, 7″ x 7″.
Estimate: $50,000–$70,000

Clars will also be offering a work on paper by renowned abstract expressionist artist, Richard Pousette-Dart (American, 1916–1992), titled The Chalice. The watercolor and gouache on paper was created during the 1940s while the artist was experimenting with biomorphic and symbolic forms. Pousette-Dart was a contemporary of several successful expressionist artists such as Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Ad Reinhardt, to name just a few. The work will be offered at $12,000– $18,000.


The Chalice
Richard Pousette-Dart (American, 1916–1992), Untitled (The Chalice), circa 1940s, watercolor, ink, and gouache on paper, 6″ x 9″. Estimate: $12,000–$18,000

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Clars is pleased to offer a fine selection of European and American furniture and decorative arts. Highlights include a Fine Neo Grec salon cabinet circa 1870 likely Herter Brothers, estimated at $4,000–$6,000, a pair of Louis XVI style malachite mounted gilt bronze gueridons, at $4,000–$6,000, and a Russian Napoleonic gilt bronze chandelier valued at $7,000–$9,000.


A Russian Napoleonic chandelier.
A Fine Russian Neoclassical gilt and crystal chandelier 19th century.
Estimate: $7,000–$9,000

Also on offer will be a fine Italian micro-mosaic plaque of the Doves of Pliny by the Vatican Mosaic Workshop, late 19th century, and a French gilt bronze and champleve enamel clock garniture retailed by Le Roy et Fils, Paris, late 19th century.


mosaic plaque
A fine Italian micro-mosaic plaque of the Doves of Pliny by the Vatican Mosaic Workshop, late 19th century.
Estimate: $2,000–$4,000

The department will also feature several specialized collections, including a large collection of South African Gold Krugerrands, Native American baskets, Indian miniature paintings, and Russian icons, among others.


Collection of gold Krugerrands
Collection of gold Krugerrands dating from 1975–1978.
(multiple lots) Estimate: $8,000–$10,000

Asian Art

The paintings and calligraphy section will be led by a massive ink and color on paper hanging scroll by Wu Changshuo (1844–1927), titled Pine and Lingzhi, painted in 1921. As one of the world’s most acclaimed masters in Chinese painting and one of the leading masters of Shanghai School in the Republic period, Wu Changshuo is known for his style of merging calligraphy techniques into paintings, using the ink and brushstroke to demonstrate the conception rather than striving for realism, which greatly influenced the modern and contemporary Chinese art world. This massive piece at Clars presents a great example of Wu Changshuo’s iconic style of mixing traditional Chinese with Western sensibility to depict one of his favorite subject matters in his late years, the pine tree. The painting comes from an important Southern California estate and it will be offered with an estimate of $80,000–$120,000.


Pine and Lingzhi
Wu Changshuo (Chinese, 1844–1927), Pine and Lingzhi, hanging scroll, ink and color on paper, titled, dated, signed and with two artist’s seals, 96.5″ x 48.5″. Provenance: Southern California estate.
Estimate: $80,000–$120,000

A strong San Francisco Bay Area collection of archer’s rings will lead the jade and miscellaneous section, presenting nearly 40 lots of imperial quality white jade, celadon jade, jadeite, agate, glass, enamel, and various organic material archer’s rings. The collector acquired this impressive collection throughout 1970s to 1990s from various important dealers and estates in the San Francisco Bay Area, including Ching Wah Lee, Herb Newman, and Sandra Sakata, among others.


jade and hardstone archer’s rings
A fine selection of Chinese jade and hardstone archer’s rings hailing from a Piedmont, California private collection amassed over the past fifty years.
(multiple lots) Estimate: $4,500–$7,000

Fine Jewelry

The Fine Jewelry & Timepiece department at Clars Auction Gallery is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry, in their upcoming November 20th sale.

This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples as your perfect gifts to kick off the holiday season. A wide selection of wearable diamond jewelry will be offered including lot 2044, an approx. 3.40 carats colored diamond and eighteen karat gold ring, estimated at $7,000–$9,000; and lot 6016, a diamond and fourteen karat white gold bangle bracelet, estimated at $3,000–$5,000. To be offered as well is a colorful gemstone selection, including lot 6023, a Burma ruby, diamond and fourteen karat white gold bracelet, estimated at $7,000–$9,000; and lot 6004, a South Sea pearl, diamond and platinum ring, estimated at $800–$1,200. Other wearable pieces that will highlight your everyday life are featured by makers such as Tiffany, represented in lot 6003, an Early 20th Century diamond and pearl silver-topped fourteen karat gold pin, Tiffany & Co., estimated at $800–$1,200; and lot 6159, a sterling silver bracelet, Buccellati, estimated at $700–$900.


November Jewelry
Left: A colored diamond and eighteen karat gold ring. Estimate: $7,000–$9,000
Right: A Burma ruby, diamond and fourteen karat white gold bracelet. Estimate: $7,000–$9,000
Bidding for Clars’ November 19–20, 2022 auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, and live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC).

In the last 5 years, Clars Auction Gallery has sold well over $125,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook and Twitter!

Read More

Spring Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction

Clars’ Spring Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on April 14th includes a fine selection of colored gemstones, diamonds, antique and signed jewelry, and timepieces.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Highlights

Our March 17th and 18th auctions will offer beautiful Chinese watercolor paintings, artwork ranging from El Greco to Andy Warhol, rare gold and silver coins, and a nice selection of diamond jewelry.

  • Auction

Spring Design Auction

Clars is starting Spring with our Design Auction, to be held on March 16, 2023 at 10 AM PST.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

Clars’ February 9th Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Auction will feature artwork from an array of international artists.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

February Highlights

Our February 10th and 11th Auctions will offer stunning jade from China, rare furniture and collectibles, and Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry from private estates.

  • Auction

January Highlights

The Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California), will highlight Clars’ January auctions.

  • Auction

October Highlights

  • Auction

The October 16th auction at Clars will feature a wide range of Fine Art, Asian Art, Furniture and Decorative Arts, and Fine Jewelry.

Fine Art

Clars is pleased to offer a monumental work by Nathan Oliveira (American, 1928–2010) titled, Wing-Owl (1996), is estimated at $20,000–$30,000. This large oil on canvas (50″h x 42″w) was part of a series the artist was commissioned to create for Stanford University in the 1990s. It was also featured in Architectural Digest magazine in December 1999.


Wing-Owl
Nathan Oliveira (American, 1928–2010), Wing-Owl, 1996, oil on canvas, 50″ x 42″. Note: This painting was featured in Architectural Digest (December 1999).

Offered in its entirety for the first time at auction, Richard Diebenkorn’s (American, 1922–1993), Six Soft Ground Etchings, a suite of six (6) prints, will be offered at $15,000–$25,000 on October 16th. This rare group of etchings comes from the collection of the assistant printmaker on this project published by Crown Point Press in 1978.


Six Soft Ground Etchings
Richard Diebenkorn (American, 1922–1993), Six Soft Ground Etchings, 1978, rare complete suite of six (6) etchings, 40″ x 26″.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

There will be a fine selection of sterling silver in the auction including a large Wallace Grande Baroque sterling silver flatware service, 196 pieces, estimated at $5,000–$7,000.


Wallace Grande Baroque sterling silver
Wallace Grande Baroque sterling silver flatware service, 196 pieces.

Also to be offered is a Heyn carousel horse, valued at $2,000–$4,000, and an Hermes “Attelage” flatware set expected to sell for $1,500–$2,000.


Heyn carousel horse, circa 1910
Heyn carousel horse, circa 1910.

Asian Art

The Asian Art Department gladly offers a large Chinese embroidered ‘dragon’ wall panel with an estimate of $3,000–$5,000. The panel features two pairs of dragons chasing a flaming pearl and one dragon in the center with a fierce expression. While the dragons symbolize royal status and power, the bats and Shou medallions surrounding them represent longevity and prosperity.


Chinese embroidered ‘dragon’ hanging panel.
Chinese embroidered ‘dragon’ hanging panel.

Fine Jewelry

The Fine Jewelry & Timepiece department at Clars Auction Gallery is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry, in their upcoming October 16th sale.

This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points, including diamond jewelry such as lot 2014, a diamond and eighteen karat white gold bracelet, estimated at $3,000–$5,000; lot 2043, a diamond and eighteen karat white gold moi et toi ring, estimated at $2,000–$3,000. To be offered as well is is a colorful gemstone selection, including lot 2001, a Ceylon sapphire, diamond and eighteen karat white gold ring, estimated at $2,500–$3,500; and lot 2046, an emerald, diamond and fourteen karat gold ring, estimated at $2,000–$3,000. Other wearable pieces that will highlight your everyday life are featured by makers such as by Hammerman Brothers in lot 2105B, a gemstone and eighteen karat gold brooch, estimated at $1,000–$2,000; and lot 2105A, an eighteen karat gold brooch, by Buccellati, estimated at $300–$500.


brooch
A gemstone and eighteen karat gold brooch, Hammerman Brothers.
Bidding for Clars’ October 15–16, 2022 auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, and live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC).

In the last 5 years, Clars Auction Gallery has sold well over $125,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook and Twitter!

Read More

Spring Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction

Clars’ Spring Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on April 14th includes a fine selection of colored gemstones, diamonds, antique and signed jewelry, and timepieces.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Highlights

Our March 17th and 18th auctions will offer beautiful Chinese watercolor paintings, artwork ranging from El Greco to Andy Warhol, rare gold and silver coins, and a nice selection of diamond jewelry.

  • Auction

Spring Design Auction

Clars is starting Spring with our Design Auction, to be held on March 16, 2023 at 10 AM PST.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

Clars’ February 9th Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Auction will feature artwork from an array of international artists.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

February Highlights

Our February 10th and 11th Auctions will offer stunning jade from China, rare furniture and collectibles, and Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry from private estates.

  • Auction

January Highlights

The Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California), will highlight Clars’ January auctions.

  • Auction

August Highlights

  • Auction

The August sale at Clars will be led by the Asian art department with numerous highlights from porcelains, to furniture and paintings, among others.

Asian Art

The Asian art department will offer a fine selection of Asian works of art on Sunday, August 14th. This auction will include various exquisite Chinese Imperial metal works, ceramics, huanghuali furniture, Buddhist objects and other categories of Asian works of art.


Chinese imperial bronze 	‘dragon’ vase, Mark and Period of Qianlong.
Chinese imperial bronze ‘dragon’ vase, Mark and Period of Qianlong.

The sale will be led by two related Qing dynasty imperial bronze square-form zun vases. Each features five-clawed dragons in pursuit of flaming pearls amid scrolling clouds in low relief. One vase features a six-character Qianlong mark, and the other one features a six-character Jiaqing mark. The precision and intricacy of the molding indicates the imperial origin, while the patina on the surface demonstrates the age. Both square-form zun vases were acquired in Tokyo, Japan, circa 1949. Another imperial object is a cloisonne enamel ‘crane and peach’ wall panel, depicting a pair of cranes perching on a garden rock under nine peaches, symbolizing longevity and prosperity.

The porcelain section will feature a blue and white brush pot of the Kangxi period. The cylindrical scholars’ object is painted with scholars in a serene mountain and river landscape with a fishman sailing on a boat. The masterful utilization of shades depicts the depth of the landscape, while the vivid illustration of the figures adds a lively touch to the tranquil scene.


Liu Guosong (Chinese, b. 1932), <em>Smokey Landscape</em>.
Liu Guosong (Chinese, b. 1932), Smokey Landscape.

Other highlights of the sale include a Ming dynasty bronze figure of Manjushri, a pair of Qing dynasty celadon glazed arm rests, a huanghuali round-corners cabinet, a Liu Guosong (Chinese, b. 1932) watercolor depicting an abstract Smokey Landscape executed in 1980, a white jade bird-finial seal, and many other fine selections from various categories of Asian works of art.

Fine Art

The art portion of the Clars August sale will offer an exquisite watercolor and gouache on silk painting by renowned Bay Area artist, Chiura Obata (Japanese/American, 1885–1975). The 1933 painting, titled Shower, Point Lobos, captures Obata’s time in California and his exploration of the landscapes in the greater Bay Area. The intricate watercolor also demonstrates his skills at traditional Japanese sumi-e ink painting, a style Obata trained in as a young boy. Shower, Point Lobos will be offered on Sunday August 14th with an estimate of $15,000–$20,000.


Chiura Obata (Japanese/American, 1885–1975), Shower, Point Lobos, 1933, watercolor and gouache on silk, 19.5" x 14".To be offered: August 14thEstimate: $15,000–$20,000
Chiura Obata (Japanese/American, 1885–1975), Shower, Point Lobos, 1933, watercolor and gouache on silk, 19.5″ x 14″.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture & Decorative Arts portion of the auction will be led by a large 18th century Flemish verdure tapestry, depicting a castle within a naturalistic setting, estimated at $8,000–$12,000. The tapestry was the centerpiece on the wall of chic San Francisco, CA Financial District pied-de-terre. Also coming up the auction block will be an early Mughal School miniature painting attributed to Payag, also known as Prayaga, dating to 17th century, depicting a mystic sitting around campfire with a group of devotees; this painting is a highlight from an impressive collection of Indian miniature paintings, presale estimate of $30,000–$50,000.


Flemish Verdure Tapestry.
Flemish Verdure Tapestry.
An Indian miniature painting, gouache on paper, depicting an ascetic before a cave attended by various figures, sight 9" x 6.5".
An Indian miniature painting, gouache on paper, depicting an ascetic before a cave attended by various figures, sight 9″ x 6.5″.

There is also a lovely mélange of 19th century European ceramics and 20th century art glass including a large Spanish Triana majolica basin featuring a rabbit, a fine Victorian pair of Minton porcelain pate sur pate pilgrim flasks depicting a scenes from Aesop’s fables and a Daum pate de verre glass ‘Les Danseurs’ figural group.


Pair Pate Sure Pate Moon Flasks.To be offered: August 14th
A fine pair of Minton porcelain pate sur pate pilgrim flasks of Aesop’s fables by Thomas H. Rice or Frederick Alfred Rhead, last quarter 19th century, one depicting the tortoise and hare, and the cow and frog, indistinct ‘TR’ artist’s cipher in decoration, gold printed crowned globe mark, impressed ‘MINTONS,’ shape 1819, date cypher for 1872 or 1882, original paper label, 10.25″ h.
A Daum pate de verre glass ‘Les Danseurs’ figural group, designed by Dan Dailey, limited edition 5 of 200, engraved ‘5 / 200,’ (restored), 14.25" h x 13.25" w. Provenance: Property of a prominent Hillsborough, CA estate.
A Daum pate de verre glass ‘Les Danseurs’ figural group, designed by Dan Dailey, limited edition 5 of 200, engraved ‘5 / 200,’ (restored), 14.25″ h x 13.25″ w. Provenance: Property of a prominent Hillsborough, CA estate.

Fine Jewelry

The Fine Jewelry & Timepiece department at Clars Auction Gallery is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry, in their upcoming August 14th sale.


A Retro diamond and fourteen karat gold ring.
A Retro diamond and fourteen karat gold ring.

This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points, including diamond jewelry such as a pair of diamond and fourteen karat white gold earrings, estimated at $3,000–$5,000 and a Retro diamond and fourteen karat gold ring, estimated at $1,000–$2,000. To be offered as well is a colorful gemstone selection, including a peridot, pink beryl and fourteen karat gold ring, estimated at $400–$600 and a sapphire, diamond and eighteen karat gold ring, estimated at $800–$1,200. Other wearable pieces that will highlight your everyday life are represented by a gemstone and eighteen karat gold brooch, by Fred Paris, estimated at $800–$1,200.


A gemstone and eighteen karat gold brooch, Fred Paris.
A gemstone and eighteen karat gold brooch, Fred Paris.
Bidding for Clars’ August 13–14, 2022 auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, and live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC).

In the last 5 years, Clars Auction Gallery has sold well over $125,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook and Twitter!

Read More

Spring Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction

Clars’ Spring Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on April 14th includes a fine selection of colored gemstones, diamonds, antique and signed jewelry, and timepieces.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Highlights

Our March 17th and 18th auctions will offer beautiful Chinese watercolor paintings, artwork ranging from El Greco to Andy Warhol, rare gold and silver coins, and a nice selection of diamond jewelry.

  • Auction

Spring Design Auction

Clars is starting Spring with our Design Auction, to be held on March 16, 2023 at 10 AM PST.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

Clars’ February 9th Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Auction will feature artwork from an array of international artists.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

February Highlights

Our February 10th and 11th Auctions will offer stunning jade from China, rare furniture and collectibles, and Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry from private estates.

  • Auction

January Highlights

The Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California), will highlight Clars’ January auctions.

  • Auction

July Highlights

  • Auction

Clars Auction Gallery will offer a fine selection of Asian works of art on Sunday, July 17th. This auction will include various Chinese Ming dynasty bronze Buddhist sculptures, huanghuali furniture, Chinese paintings, porcelains, and other categories of Asian works of art.

Asian Art

The auction will be led by three Ming dynasty bronze Buddhist sculptures. The first will be a bronze Avalokiteshvara figure seated on a double-lotus thrown with one hand in an abhaya gesture, estimated at $10,000–$15,000. The back of the base is incised with the name of the patron of the sculpture and dated the sixteenth year of Hongzhi reign (1503). This bronze sculpture of Avalokiteshvara is from a Bay area private collector who previously acquired it from Gu Yea Guan Art Gallery in Bangkok in 1993. The other is a seated figure of Avalokiteshvara in ‘royal ease’ position, with a calm and serene expression. The gilt bronze figure of Vajrasattva is presented sitting on a double-lotus throne, holding a Vajra and a bell in each hand, with turquoise inlay on the crown and ornaments. These two bronze sculptures come from a prominent San Francisco estate. In addition to the three sculptures, there will also be several other gilt bronze Himalayan Buddhist sculptures from an important San Francisco collector.


Left: Cast bronze figure of Avalokiteshvara. Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
Middle: Gilt bronze figure of Vajrasattva. Provenance: San Francisco estate. Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Right: Bronze figure of Avalokiteshvara. Provenance: San Francisco estate. Estimate: $3,000–$5,000

The furniture section will feature a pair of Qing Dynasty huanghuali horseshoe-back armchairs, valued at $30,000–$50,000. Each chair features a ruyi-head-form roundel on the back carved in relief with a mythical beast amongst flaming clouds. The arched back and the arms with white brass hardware are decorated with prunus motifs.


Pair of Chinese huanghuali horseshoe back armchairs. Provenance: Acquired in Hong Kong, 1989.
Estimate: $30,000–$50,000

Another furniture highlight is a Qing dynasty huanghuali cabinet of tapered form, expected to sell for $40,000–$60,000. The elegant design amplifies the rich and dramatic wood grains of huanghuali.


Chinese huanghuali tapered cabinet. Provenance: Acquired in Hong Kong, 1989. Estimate: $40,000–$60,000
Chinese huanghuali tapered cabinet. Provenance: Acquired in Hong Kong, 1989.
Estimate: $40,000–$60,000

Other highlights of the sale include a painting by a contemporary Chinese artist, Gu Gan (Chinese, born 1942); this painting was acquired from Michael Goedhuis Gallert, in London in 2001, and is valued at $5,000–$7,000. Along with a pair of blue and white ‘dragon’ bowls with Xianfeng mark of the period, are a pair of blue and white garden stools, a cobalt blue ground yellow glazed ‘dragon’ dish with Chuxiugong Zhi mark, a Japanese early Edo period Katana, and a Japanese wakizashi.


Gu Gang (1922–2020), Harmony. Provenance: Michael Goedhuis Gallert, London, 2001.To be offered: July 17
Gu Gang (1922–2020), Harmony. Provenance: Michael Goedhuis Gallert, London, 2001.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000

Fine Art

Clars is pleased to offer two large paintings by Harry Curieux Adamson (American, 1916–2012) titled, Flooded Timber Mallards and Winter Quarters – Widgeon. Both are estimated at $10,000–$15,000 each. Adamson’s portrayals of wildfowl in their natural surroundings are highly sought after by many sporting art enthusiasts.


Harry Curieux Adamson (American, 1916–2012), <em>Winter Quarters - Widgeon</em>, 1971, oil on board, 24" x 36".<br><b>Estimate: $10,000–$15,000</b>
Harry Curieux Adamson (American, 1916–2012), Winter Quarters – Widgeon, 1971, oil on board, 24″ x 36″.
Estimate: $10,000–$15,000

The print portion of Clars’ July 17th sale will have a wide variety of works for all collectors. Several prints will be offered by Bay Area figurative artist Nathan Oliveira (American, 1928–2010) including four intaglio works from his Revisited series printed in 1994. Christopher Brown (American, b. 1951) followers will also be excited to see the three works In the Green, Malage, and Station coming up for auction. Rounding out the sale is a collection of Salvador Dali (Spanish, 1904–1989) lithographs formally in the private collection of master printer, Irwin Hollander. The early prints by Dali were trial proofs aside from the known edition of 150. One of the 1965 prints, titled Cosmic Rays Resuscitating Soft Watches, will be offered at $7,000–$10,000.


Harry Curieux Adamson (American, 1916–2012), Flooded Timber Mallards, oil on canvas board, 24" x 36".Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
Harry Curieux Adamson (American, 1916–2012), Flooded Timber Mallards, oil on canvas board, 24″ x 36″.
Estimate: $10,000–$15,000

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture & Decorative Arts portion of the sale will be led by a large Empire style gilt bronze and crystal six light chandelier circa 1909, estimated at $6,000–$9,000. The chandelier was original to the Scottish Rite Freemasons lodge 1909, currently the Regency Center, San Francisco, CA. Also coming up the auction block with the same provenance will be another large Empire style chandelier at $5,000–$7,000, and a pair of Empire style gilt bronze wall sconces, circa 1909, having swan supports.


Left: A large Empire style gilt bronze and crystal six light chandelier circa 1909. Provenance: Original to the Scottish Rite Freemasons lodge 1909, currently the Regency Center, San Francisco CA. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Right: A massive Empire style twelve light chandelier with gilt bronze mounts and canopy. Provenance: Regency Ballroom, San Francisco CA. Estimate: $5,000–$7,000

There will be a lovely mélange of decorative arts, including an Italian micro mosaic, a selection of Delftware including a figure of a dalmatian, chargers, faience figures of cows, a Rene Lalique Ambre perfume bottle, etc.


An Italian micromosaic by Cesare Roccheggiani.
An Italian micromosaic by Cesare Roccheggiani.
Selection of Continental Faience and Delftware, including 18th and 19th century examples.
Selection of Continental Faience and Delftware, including 18th and 19th century examples.

Fine Jewelry

The Fine Jewelry & Timepiece department at Clars Auction Gallery is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry, in their upcoming July 17th sale.


A pair of unheated Burma ruby, diamond and fourteen karat gold ear jackets.
A pair of unheated Burma ruby, diamond and fourteen karat gold ear jackets.
Estimate: $2,500–$3,500

This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points, including bridal jewelry such as lot 2004, a diamond and eighteen karat white gold ring, estimated at $1,500–$2,500; everyday diamonds such as lot 2076, a diamond and eighteen karat gold necklace, estimated at $1,800–$2,200. To be offered as well are a colorful gemstone selection, including lot 2038, a pair of unheated Burma ruby, diamond and fourteen karat gold ear jackets, estimated at $2,500–$3,500 and lot 2073, a black opal, diamond and fourteen karat gold ring, estimated at $2,000–$3,000. Other wearable pieces that will highlight your everyday life include gentleman rings such as lot 2077, a diamond and fourteen karat bi-color gold ring, estimated at $1,000–$2,000.


A black opal, diamond and fourteen karat gold ring.
A black opal, diamond and fourteen karat gold ring.
Estimate: $2,000–$3,000
Bidding for Clars’ July 16–17, 2022 auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, and live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC).

In the last 5 years, Clars Auction Gallery has sold well over $125,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook and Twitter!

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Spring Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction

Clars’ Spring Jewelry & Timepieces Auction on April 14th includes a fine selection of colored gemstones, diamonds, antique and signed jewelry, and timepieces.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Highlights

Our March 17th and 18th auctions will offer beautiful Chinese watercolor paintings, artwork ranging from El Greco to Andy Warhol, rare gold and silver coins, and a nice selection of diamond jewelry.

  • Auction

Spring Design Auction

Clars is starting Spring with our Design Auction, to be held on March 16, 2023 at 10 AM PST.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

Clars’ February 9th Important Winter Modern + Contemporary Art Auction will feature artwork from an array of international artists.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

February Highlights

Our February 10th and 11th Auctions will offer stunning jade from China, rare furniture and collectibles, and Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry from private estates.

  • Auction

January Highlights

The Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California), will highlight Clars’ January auctions.

  • Auction