On December 20th, Clars will present an exceptionally rare Qing Yongzheng Robin’s Egg Glazed hu-form Vase, a contemporary masterpiece by Liu Jiutong, and a variety of other exceptional Asian artworks at its annual Fine Asian Art Auction.

The Chinese Robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase featured by Clars has an elegant and dignified form, showcasing a flared mouth, short neck, elongated curved body, and wide splayed foot, standing at approximately 19 centimeters tall. The mouth, neck, and belly of the vase are adorned with three string patterns, which are simple yet graceful, adding a three-dimensional effect and enhancing the visual appeal of the piece. This design reflects the refined and majestic style typical of Yongzheng porcelain. The base is engraved with a two-line, four-character mark: “Yongzheng Nian Zhi,” further indicating its imperial provenance and outstanding craftsmanship.

The glaze of this remarkable piece features a distinctive blend of red, blue, and purple hues, with the rare “Gaoliang Red” standing out prominently. This reddish-purple tone is a hallmark of Yongzheng Robin’s egg-glazed porcelain, extremely rare and almost entirely absent in pieces produced after the Yongzheng era. According to the Qing-era “Nan Yao Bi Ji” (Notes on Southern Kilns), “The finest Robin’s egg glaze features flowing colors with red specks, followed by blue.” Additionally, records from the Imperial Workshop Archives show that in the tenth year of the Yongzheng reign, the emperor ordered a Robin’s egg glazed vase to be paired with a zitan wood stand, illustrating that these pieces were often reserved for imperial appreciation or court display, underscoring their exceptional status. Today, similar-shaped vases of the Yongzheng Period are mostly found in museum collections, such as the Qing Yongzheng flambe glazed hu-form vase at the Palace Museum in Beijing.

The production of Robin’s Egg glazed porcelain was highly intricate, requiring precise temperature control and expert glaze mixing, resulting in a very low success rate. Well-preserved masterpieces from the Yongzheng period are exceedingly rare. The vase from Clars is in perfect condition, showcasing the natural, rustic elegance characteristic of Yongzheng-era aesthetics. In contrast to the more ornate style favored during the Qianlong period, this piece embodies the subtle and refined taste of Yongzheng, making it exceptionally valuable both artistically and historically.

Contemporary Masterpiece “Watching the Clouds Gather” by Liu Jiutong to Be Featured

Additionally, Clars will feature an oil painting by contemporary artist Liu Jiutong titled Watching the Clouds Gather. This piece vividly showcases the artist’s unique approach to abstract art, seamlessly blending Western painting materials and techniques with the essence and spirit of Eastern aesthetics, resulting in a distinct personal style. The painting combines delicate and bold brushstrokes, evoking the imagery of Su Shi’s poetry: “Dark clouds swirl like ink over the mountains; white rain leaps like pearls onto boats.” Dated in 2011, this canvas painting measures 110 cm in height and 280 cm in width, bearing Liu Jiutong’s signature in Chinese. The current collector obtained it directly from the artist prior to their relocation from Hong Kong to California.

The auction will also present a variety of other exceptional Asian artworks, including a large Chinese famille rose ‘landscape’ porcelain plaque created in 1939 by renowned Republic Period ceramic artist Zhang Zhitang, a Chinese blue and white vase attributed to renowned Republic Period blue and white porcelain artist Wang Bu, a Chinese white jade landscape carving from Qing Dynasty, and a Chinese kesi-woven ‘dragon’ cushion cover.

At the same time, Clars Auctions will focus on a series of exquisite jade jewelry pieces that incorporate Asian aesthetics on December 20th. Highlight pieces include a pair of ‘A grade’ jadeite, diamond and platinum ear-clips, an ‘A grade’ jadeite and 14k gold choker necklace, an ‘A grade’ jadeite and 14k gold beaded necklace, and a Columbian emerald, seed pearl, diamond and 18k gold necklace, which skillfully integrate traditional Asian elements and craftsmanship. These precious jewelry pieces not only showcase the perfect combination of natural gemstones and outstanding craftsmanship but also reflect the unique charm of Asian art.

We look forward to meeting you at the Fine Asian Art Auction at Clars Auctions on December 20th!

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.

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.

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.

Clars will showcase a diverse collection of antique furniture, decorative arts, and Asian art at our September 20th auction, starting 9:30 AM PDT.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The furniture segment features a broad selection, including both classic and modern design pieces. Highlights include an array of Tiffany Studios articles, a Frank Lloyd Wright for Henredon cabinet, and furniture by Maitland-Smith.

Asian Art

In the Asian Art department, the spotlight is on two exceptional pieces. The first is a late Qing dynasty purple-ground gauze and gilt-thread ‘dragon’ robe, an imperial garment adorned with nine five-clawed dragons and auspicious symbols.

The second highlight is a Chinese four-panel folding screen with porcelain plaque insets by renowned Jingdezhen artist, Zhu Danchen. Crafted in 1994, the screen displays twelve porcelain plaques featuring poetic inscriptions and enameled landscape scenes. Additional notable items include a collection of Chinese enameled boxes and decorative objects from the Republic Period.

The Warehouse Auction

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.

Additionally, the Warehouse boasts a well-priced collection that spans modern and antique furniture, décor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, collectible toys, books, and indigenous arts. Notable highlights include Zuni fetishes, Royal Doulton toby jugs, and vintage bird cages.

Clars is excited to present our Jewelry, Furniture, Art & Fine Asian Auction on Friday, August 16th, starting at 9:30 AM PDT. Highlights include striking jewelry, Indigenous art, emotive artworks, and Chinese ink paintings.

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Jewelry portion of the auction features an exquisite collection of both antique and contemporary jewelry, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your summer wardrobe. Highlights include remarkable Art Deco pieces, such as a diamond and 14k white gold bracelet and rock crystal brooch, estimated at $700–$900; a diamond and 14k white gold engagement ring with guard, estimated at $500–$700; and an Art Deco diamond and 14k white gold pin, estimated at $150–$250.

In addition, we will offer stunning items like a pair of cultured pearl, diamond, platinum, and white gold day/night clip earrings, estimated at $8,000–$12,000; an emerald and 14k gold necklace, estimated at $5,000–$7,000; and multi-color sapphire, diamond, and 18k gold hoop earrings, estimated at $3,000–$4,000. Other notable pieces include an amethyst and 14k gold necklace, estimated at $3,000–$5,000; a tanzanite, diamond, and 18k white gold ring, estimated at $2,000–$3,000; a mabé cultured pearl, diamond, and 18k gold earring and ring set, estimated at $1,200–$1,800; a multi-hue South Sea cultured pearl and 14k gold necklace, estimated at $1,200–$1,800; and a Tiger Eye Men’s Ring, estimated at $1,200–$1,800.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The gallery sale will showcase a diverse array of items, including silver, porcelain, glass, furniture, Indigenous art, and carpets. Among the standout pieces are collections of Meissen porcelain and contemporary Inuit masks of substantial size, as well as a finely carved Renaissance cabinet and a Louis XVI style brass inlaid roll-top secretary desk. Additionally, classic furniture selections from Old Hickory and McGuire will complement the sale.

Fine Art

This August, Clars is delighted to feature a variety of works by international artists in painting, sculpture, and printmaking. A highlight of the auction is an oil on canvas by Dutch painter Barend Cornelis Koekkoek, known as the Prince of Landscape Painting. Koekkoek, a prominent figure in Dutch Romanticism, created lush, light-infused landscapes that captivated royalty and influenced later artists. The painting in our auction depicts travelers strolling through a verdant countryside, with natural light casting dramatic pink and golden hues.

Another notable piece is by modern American artist Jane Wilson, known for her expressionist landscapes. Wilson’s work, including the 1955 painting Summer Breakfast, blends elements of expressionism with her Midwestern background. This piece portrays a contemplative scene of two women at breakfast — reflecting the moody, emotive quality characteristic of Wilson’s style.

Also featured is a bronze sculpture by Native American artist, Doug Hyde. Born of Assiniboine, Nez Perce, and Ojibwe heritage, Hyde’s work often draws from indigenous mythology and history. The bronze sculpture, titled Hopi Butterflies, captures a group of women in traditional dress engaged in conversation, showcasing Hyde’s modernized yet respectful interpretation of indigenous subjects.

Fine Asian Art

The auction will include high-quality works of Asian art, including contemporary Chinese ink paintings, a Tibetan black-ground thangka of Vajrabhairava, Chinese cloisonné enamel burners, a pair of Chinese jade and hardstone embellished lacquer panels, various types of fine jades, porcelains, embroidery, and various miscellaneous items.

Leading the lineup is Setting Sail, a hanging scroll, ink, and color on paper from 1977. This late-period work by Zhang Daqian depicts several quaint cottages nestled at the foot of steep mountains, with small boats gradually disappearing into the distance on the sea. Through this painting, Zhang expresses his blessings for his friend’s forthcoming journey and his reluctance to part. This painting comes from Harvey CV Liu, gifted by Zhang just before he moved from Taiwan to San Francisco, California.

Another featured work is the hanging scroll The Scholar by Zhang Daqian — an ink and color on paper which showcases his masterful delineation of character lines and the elegant depiction of figures.

At the same time, we will also present Pu Ru’s fan painting Secluded Dwelling in Autumn Mountains. Pu Ru’s landscape paintings convey an elegant and refined artistic conception, with meticulously structured and vigorous brushwork and subtle layering of colors. In Secluded Dwelling in Autumn Mountains, Pu Ru uses different shades of ink to artfully render forests and cottages, presenting a harmonious composition. This piece was gifted by Pu Ru to a collector’s father.

The Warehouse Auction

The Warehouse auction is offering an extensive and fine private collection of items from the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition (PPIE) in San Francisco. The collection includes original glass Novagems, sterling trophies, exhibit items, enamel pins, and watch fobs, as well as Panama Canal memorabilia. Felt pennants, photographs, and presentation articles related to exposition president Charles C Moore, San Francisco mayor James Rolph, Jr., and United States President William Howard Taft, are also available. Complementing the historical collection, this monthly sale also boasts a wide array of contemporary and antique furniture, decorative arts, and rugs.

Also on offer will be an eclectic range of art, prints and photographs. Each month we select paintings, prints, and sculptures in diverse styles from all over the world to offer with accessible estimates. The Asian Art Department presents a meticulously curated collection spanning Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and various decorative pieces. Meanwhile, the Jewelry department is thrilled to present an array of affordable items, including diamonds, silver and gold necklaces.

Clars Auctions will be holding an exciting Fine Asian Art Auction on Friday, August 16th.

The auction will include high-quality works of Asian art, including contemporary Chinese ink paintings, a Tibetan black-ground thangka of Vajrabhairava, Chinese cloisonné enamel burners, a pair of Chinese jade and hardstone embellished lacquer panels, various types of fine jades, porcelains, embroidery, and various miscellaneous items.

Leading the lineup is Setting Sail, a hanging scroll, ink, and color on paper from 1977. This late-period work by Zhang Daqian depicts several quaint cottages nestled at the foot of steep mountains, with small boats gradually disappearing into the distance on the sea. Through this painting, Zhang expresses his blessings for his friend’s forthcoming journey and his reluctance to part. This painting comes from Harvey CV Liu, gifted by Zhang just before he moved from Taiwan to San Francisco, California.

Another featured work is the hanging scroll The Scholar by Zhang Daqian — an ink and color on paper which showcases his masterful delineation of character lines and the elegant depiction of figures.

At the same time, we will also present Pu Ru’s fan painting Secluded Dwelling in Autumn Mountains. Pu Ru’s landscape paintings convey an elegant and refined artistic conception, with meticulously structured and vigorous brushwork and subtle layering of colors. In Secluded Dwelling in Autumn Mountains, Pu Ru uses different shades of ink to artfully render forests and cottages, presenting a harmonious composition. This piece was gifted by Pu Ru to a collector’s father.

Explore a rich variety of collectibles at Clars’ July 19th auction, featuring Jewelry, Furniture, Fine Art, and Asian works. Highlights include contemporary and vintage watches, exquisite gemstones, and a range of European and modern furnishings.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Notable pieces such as a Napoleon III gilt bronze boulle cabinet and iconic Eames chairs will be up for auction. Of particular interest are eight tole hanging lanterns, originally refurbished by Caldwell & Co. for Marjorie Merriweather Post’s Mar-a-Lago, once owned by Donald Trump and previously sold at Christie’s in 1995.

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

This sale will showcase a stunning collection of diamonds, timepieces, antique jewelry, and Art Deco pieces.

Fine Art

A notable feature of this auction is the Art & Photography Collection from the Estate of Professor Raymond Lifchez of Berkeley, California. Professor Lifchez, who served over 50 years as a Professor Emeritus of Architecture and City & Regional Planning at the University of California, Berkeley, was a pioneering advocate for accessible design education. The collection includes works by renowned photographers such as Ruth Bernhard, Manuel Alvarez Bravo, Harry Callahan, Robert Capa, and others, reflecting Lifchez’s profound impact on design and education.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department will showcase a compelling collection of Buddha figures, including a Burmese gilt lacquered wood figure and a standing Burmese wood figure. Additionally, standout items include a Chinese cloisonné enamel dragon wash basin and various porcelain pieces.

The Warehouse Auction

Clars’ Warehouse auction is set to showcase an eclectic range of art, prints, and photographs. Each month, we select paintings, prints, and sculptures in diverse styles from all over the world to offer with accessible estimates. The Warehouse boasts an affordably priced collection that encompasses modern and antique furniture and décor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, collectible toys, books, and indigenous arts.

The Asian Art Department presents a curated collection in our July Warehouse Auction, spanning Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and various decorative pieces. Additionally, our selection includes decorative Chinese furniture, jade and hardstone carvings, and ceramics from various periods.

Clars is excited to present our Jewelry, Furniture & Asian Auction on June 21st, and The Warehouse Auction on June 22nd.

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

Clars is thrilled to announce their Luxury Jewels and Timepieces Auction on Friday, June 21st, starting at 9:30 AM PDT. This sale will showcase a stunning collection of diamonds, timepieces, antique jewelry and signed pieces.

Highlights in our Friday sale include a diamond and platinum rivière necklace, estimated at $25,000–$30,000; a diamond and platinum tennis bracelet, estimated at $15,000–$20,000; an 18k gold Cartier wristwatch, estimated at $2,500–$3,500; a Chopard diamond and 18k gold ‘Your Hour’ wristwatch, estimated at $4,000–$6,000; an antique aquamarine and 18k gold parure set, estimated at $6,000–$8,000; and a Victorian citrine, diamond, enamel, and gold brooch, estimated at $3,000–$5,000. We are also proud to present a set of sapphire, diamond, and gold brooches designed by the renowned artist Salvador Dalí, never before seen on the second-hand market.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Friday sale features modern highlights from design masters such as Isamu Noguchi, Guido Faleschini, Hans Wegner, and Philip and Kelvin LaVerne. Other highlights include Pre-Columbian and other indigenous arts, sterling silver, musical instruments, fine porcelain, Bohemian glass, and Persian and modern carpets.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department will offer a single-owner collection of Chinese archaic jade and hardstone carvings ranging from bi discs to pendants and cong vessels. The highlight from this collection is a jade ‘dragon’ disc, possibly dated to the Eastern Zhou period (771–256 BCE). Another highlight is a Chinese folding screen inset with sixteen finely decorated underglaze blue porcelain plaques featuring various animals from the Republic period (1911–1949). Rounding out the sale is a sizable collection of Chinese porcelain jars and vases from the Estate of Reynold Tom of Piedmont, California.

The Warehouse Auction

Clars’ Warehouse auction is set to showcase an eclectic range of art, prints, and photographs. Each month, we select paintings, prints, and sculptures in diverse styles from all over the world to offer with accessible estimates. The Warehouse boasts an affordably priced collection that encompasses modern and antique furniture and décor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, collectible toys, books, and indigenous arts.

The Asian Art Department presents a meticulously curated collection in our June Warehouse auction, including Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and various decorative pieces. Additionally, our selection includes decorative Chinese furniture, jade and hardstone carvings, and ceramics from various periods.

Clars is excited to present The Maritime Sale — featuring the collection of Frank’s Fisherman, the estate of Meri Jaye and Playland at the Beach — on April 18th, our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction — featuring the Estate of Harvey Clar on April 19th, and our Warehouse Auction on April 20th.

The Maritime Sale

This April, Clars is hosting a Maritime Sale that will include a multitude of art and décor from celebrated nautical interior designer, Meri Jaye as well as memorabilia and artifacts from the historic marine collectibles shop, Frank’s Fisherman, a San Francisco landmark that was converted from a fishing supplier in the 1970s.

This sprawling collection includes fine paintings from the Atlantic to the Pacific, stunningly crafted model ships, authentic relics from functioning boats, and much more that is sure to draw the enthusiasm of marine collectors. This auction also extends beyond these two extraordinary collections. Additional estates and collections, including vintage fixtures from the beloved San Francisco landmark Playland at the Beach, will also be offered.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Our April 19th auction features a remarkable collection from the estate of Harvey Clar, the gallery’s founder. Mr. Clar’s collection includes exquisite Lalique pieces, fine porcelain, marble, and bronze sculptures. The estate of Meri Jaye of Nob Hill, San Francisco, also contributes to this sale. Her collection boasts a coveted 1780 edition of Don Quixote, printed by Don Joaquin Ibarra, and a deluxe copy edition of Tales of Mystery and Imagination by Edgar Allan Poe, signed by illustrator Arthur Rackham.

The auction further presents a selection of indigenous art from other estates, including Native American beadwork, Hopi kachinas, and Inuit figures. Rounding out this diverse auction is a collection of antique furniture in Regency and Georgian periods, including miniature cabinets, and brass-bound writing boxes.

Fine Art

This month at Clars, we are pleased to present a number of works by well-known and up-and-coming artists. Featured in our April sale is a bronze sculpture by German-born American sculptor, Adolph Alexander Weinman. Weinman received his arts education at Cooper Union and later at the Art Students League of New York, after which he became a member of the National Sculpture Society and served as its president. He is most known for his architectural sculpture, as well as portrayals of American presidents. His most acclaimed works include a bronze statue of Abraham Lincoln at the Kentucky State Capitol, the Fountain of the Centaurs at the Missouri State Capitol, his work on Pennsylvania Station in New York, and the pediments of the National Archive Building and the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, D.C. The piece in our April sale is a nude female figure dancing with a hoop, set atop a marble base. The sculpture masterfully evokes movement and displays the influence of the Art Deco style that was flourishing in 1922 when the sculpture was cast.

A second highlight in our sale is a 1915 edition of volume ten of The North American Indian, a book and portfolio by American photographer, Edward Sheriff Curtis. Curtis is widely known for his depictions of the American West and Native American people, including important figures like Geronimo, Princess Angeline, and Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce. In 1906, financier J.P. Morgan commissioned Curtis to produce the 20-volume series containing many of his photographs of the Native American peoples across the country. Volume 10 is centered on the Kwakiutl people of the Pacific Northwest, mainly based in British Columbia, Canada. The volume in our April sale contained 74 sepia-toned photogravure plates and is out of an edition of 500.

Another highlight is an oil on canvas painting by Icelandic-American artist, Louisa Matthiasdottir. Born in Reykjavik, Matthiasdottir studied art in Denmark and Paris before moving to New York City in the 1940s. She studied there under Hans Hoffmann and Robert De Nico, Sr., and exhibited often in New York and other major east coast cities. She is known for her landscapes and cityscapes depicting Iceland, with a focus on the light, agriculture, and colorful architecture of the towns. Her work is included in collections at the Hirschhorn Museum in Washington, D.C., the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Reykjavik Art Museum.

Along with these exciting items, we will also present a large oil on canvas painting by Deladier Almeida, a painting by Karl Albert Buehr, sculptures by Beniamino Bufano, a mixed media piece by Sam Gilliam, and much more.

Asian Art

A standout piece from the April 19th auction is a hanging scroll calligraphy by Yu Youren, a master revered for his exceptional skill in calligraphy — particularly in cursive script. Yu Youren is celebrated for pioneering the “Standard Cursive Script,” earning him accolades as the “Contemporary Sage of Cursive” and “Modern Saint of Calligraphy.” This calligraphy came from the collection of Huang Siufeng (1892–1975), who held a prominent position at the Central Bank of China during the late 1930s. It was acquired at auction in Seattle where Huang Siufeng lived for many years.

Accompanying this masterpiece is a Chinese famille rose blue ground bowl, with a blue background and adorned with bird and floral motifs. It also features a dragon in the interior. This exquisite piece, featuring the Guangxu six-character mark, showcases the refined porcelain artistry of the late Qing dynasty period.

Next is a Japanese six-panel folding screen, illustrating morning glories, measuring 36″ high by 102″ wide. This screen exemplifies the Japanese aesthetic of capturing the fleeting beauty of nature, rendered in delicate detail and vibrant hues.

Completing our highlights is a Chinese landscape painting — executed in the splashed color technique — attributed to Zhang Daqian. This painting showcases Zhang Daqian’s mastery of ink and color on paper. Known for his innovative splashed ink technique, Zhang Daqian’s work is a bridge between traditional Chinese landscapes and modern abstract expression. This work is inscribed, dated, and adorned with two seals.

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepiece department is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone, and gold jewelry in the upcoming April 19th sale. This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points. Highlights include an opal, ruby, and gold pendant brooch, estimated at $2,000–$3,000; a pair of diamond and 14k gold earrings, estimated at $1,500–$2,500; and a gold link bracelet, estimated at $500–$700.

The Warehouse Auction

Clars’ April Warehouse Auction will feature a collection from the estate of Harvey Clar, the gallery’s founder, including Lladro, Boehm and Lalique figures. Antique and contemporary silver, porcelain, glass, fine books, carpets, furniture, mirrors and lighting will also be up for offer.

In addition, there will be an eclectic range of art, prints and photographs available. Each month we select paintings, prints, and sculptures in diverse styles from all over the world to offer with accessible estimates. The furniture section will offer antique, vintage and contemporary furniture, and decorative arts. The Asian Art Department presents a meticulously curated collection spanning Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and various decorative pieces. Meanwhile, the Jewelry department is thrilled to present an array of affordable items, including diamonds, silver and gold necklaces.