Modern Design: Visionaries of the 20th Century

  • Design
  • Highlights

Clars will offer a strong lineup of Modern Design in our July 18th auction. Design highlights include pieces by Philip and Kelvin Laverne, Robert Mallet-Stevens, James Mont, Folke Ohlsson and Hans Wegner, among others.

Philip & Kelvin LaVerne

The father-son team of Philip and Kelvin LaVerne developed an entirely new category of design in mid-century America — furniture that functioned simultaneously as sculpture, historical commentary, and high art. Their signature technique involved acid-etched bronze and pewter inlaid over wood and sealed under glass, producing intricate surface patterns with a painterly quality.

The “Chan” coffee table — inspired by ancient Chinese art — exemplifies their fusion of classical imagery with modernist form. No two tables are identical, each bearing hand-finished surfaces that evoke patinated metalwork and antiquities. Their pieces are now housed in major museum collections and remain highly sought after for their historical richness and collectible rarity.


A Philip and Kelvin Laverne Chan coffee table. Estimate: $4,000–$6,000
A Philip and Kelvin Laverne Chan coffee table.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000

Robert Mallet-Stevens

A leading figure in French modernism, Robert Mallet-Stevens (1886–1945) is best known for his radical architectural designs — such as the streamlined Villa Cavrois — which integrated form, light, and materials into holistic environments. His lighting designs reflect the same ethos: a minimalist approach that privileges geometry and proportion over ornamentation.

These torchieres are characteristic of Mallet-Stevens’ architectural vocabulary — simple, cylindrical forms that cast light upward and create dramatic spatial ambiance. As a designer who believed that every detail of an environment should serve the whole, his furnishings were often custom-made, and today are extremely rare.


A pair of Robert Mallet-Stevens (1886–1945) chromed metal torchiere floor lamps.<br><b>Estimate: $1,200–$1,800</b>
A pair of Robert Mallet-Stevens (1886–1945) chromed metal torchiere floor lamps.
Estimate: $1,200–$1,800

James Mont

Known as the “bad boy of mid-century design,” James Mont (1904–1978) brought a lavish, often provocative sensibility to American interiors. His work blended Art Deco, Hollywood Regency, and Asian influences — what he called “Oriental Modernism.” His clients ranged from the elite of Hollywood to underworld figures, lending his reputation an aura of danger and mystique.

These oxbow armchairs with faux snakeskin upholstery demonstrate Mont’s theatrical flair. With curving silhouettes and exotic materials, the chairs are both sensual and commanding — hallmarks of Mont’s approach to statement design.


A pair of James Mont stained walnut and faux snakeskin-upholstered oxbow armchairs. Estimate: $2,000–$4,000
A pair of James Mont stained walnut and faux snakeskin-upholstered oxbow armchairs.
Estimate: $2,000–$4,000

Folke Ohlsson

Swedish-born Folke Ohlsson (1919–2002) was a key figure in the transatlantic spread of Scandinavian modernism. After relocating to California in the 1950s, he established DUX Inc. and helped adapt clean-lined, functional Nordic design to the preferences of American consumers.

This mid-century Dux sofa exemplifies Ohlsson’s strengths: ergonomic form, warm wood accents, and restrained elegance. Designed for comfort as much as beauty, it bridges two design cultures and continues to resonate with collectors and designers seeking timeless simplicity.


A Folke Ohlsson for Dux sofa with cushions and two pillows.<br><b>Estimate: $1,500–$2,500</b>
A Folke Ohlsson for Dux sofa with cushions and two pillows.
Estimate: $1,500–$2,500

Hans Wegner

Few designers have achieved the reverence granted to Hans J. Wegner (1914–2007), often called “the master of the chair.” A leading figure in the Danish modern movement, Wegner was trained as a cabinetmaker and believed deeply in the integrity of materials. His work combines utility, elegance, and a near-spiritual respect for craftsmanship.

This GEG daybed, made for Getama, reflects his design philosophy: minimal yet warm, meticulously constructed, and deeply functional. Designed for modern living, the piece embodies Wegner’s ideal that “a chair is to have no backside. It should be beautiful from all sides and angles.”


A Hans Wegner for Getama GE6 daybed, Gedsted, Denmark, 1950’s.Estimate: $1,000–$2,000
A Hans Wegner for Getama GE6 daybed, Gedsted, Denmark, 1950’s.
Estimate: $1,000–$2,000
Sources:
High Style Deco
Encyclopedia Design
The Modernists Guide to Cocktails
High Style Deco
Vintage Modern Maine
Carl Hansen & Son

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April Gallery Auction Highlights

Our April 17th auction will feature distinguished design, craftsmanship, and notable works by artists across cultures and periods.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

March Gallery Auction Highlights

The March 20th Gallery Auction will offer a dynamic selection that spans Asian works of art, fine art, furniture, and decorative arts.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

A Trusted Partnership

Clars is honored to present a distinguished group of works from the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco at auction on March 19th.

  • Fine Art
  • Highlights

Antique Diamonds: A Collector’s Auction Highlights

Leading the March 19th auction is an Art Deco platinum ring set with a 4.92-carat F color, VS2 clarity cut-cornered square step-cut diamond.

  • Fine Jewelry & Watches
  • Highlights

Asian Works of Art Highlights

The Asian Works of Art Auction on February 19th will feature a curated selection of Chinese and Japanese works.

  • Asian Art
  • Highlights

Important Fine Art Highlights

Clars’ Important Fine Art Auction on February 19th presents an exceptional selection of artworks by celebrated artists.

  • Fine Art
  • Highlights

July Auction Highlights

  • Auction
  • Highlights

Clars is pleased to announce the upcoming Modern Design, Art, Jewelry, & Asian Auction, taking place on Friday, July 18th, beginning at 9:30 AM PDT. This dynamic sale features a curated selection of exceptional works across multiple categories, including modern and traditional furniture, notable fine art, exquisite jewelry, and important Asian works of art.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

In the Furniture section, Clars will offer a strong lineup of both Modern Design and fine traditional pieces. Highlights from the Modern Design selection include a Chan coffee table by Philip and Kelvin Laverne, estimated at $4,000–$6,000; a pair of torchiere floor lamps by French modernist Robert Mallet-Stevens, estimated at $1,200–$1,800; and a striking pair of oxbow armchairs by James Mont, featuring stained walnut frames and faux snakeskin upholstery, expected to bring $2,000–$4,000. Other notable pieces include a Folke Ohlsson for Dux sofa and a Hans Wegner for Getama GEG daybed, each estimated at $1,500–$2,500 and $1,000–$2,000 respectively.


A Philip and Kelvin Laverne Chan coffee table. Estimate: $4,000–$6,000
A Philip and Kelvin Laverne Chan coffee table.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000
A pair of James Mont stained walnut and faux snakeskin-upholstered oxbow armchairs.<br><b>Estimate: $2,000–$4,000</b>
A pair of James Mont stained walnut and faux snakeskin-upholstered oxbow armchairs.
Estimate: $2,000–$4,000
A rare and important Florentine early polychrome cassone, 14th/15th century. Estimate: $25,000–$35,000
A rare and important Florentine early polychrome cassone, 14th/15th century.
Estimate: $25,000–$35,000
A William Moorcroft flambe glazed pottery ‘Fish and Jellyfish’ vase. Estimate: $4,000–$6,000
A William Moorcroft flambe glazed pottery ‘Fish and Jellyfish’ vase.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000

In the realm of fine furniture and decorative arts, Clars will present an antique Persian Bidjar carpet and a flambe-glazed pottery vase by William Moorcroft titled Fish and Jellyfish, both estimated at $4,000–$6,000. Also on offer is an early 17th-century German parcel-gilt silver tankard by Augustin Heyne of Breslau, estimated at $6,000–$8,000, and a rare and important early Florentine polychrome cassone dating to the 14th or 15th century, which carries a presale estimate of $25,000–$35,000.


<b>Left to Right:</b> A fine German parcel gilt silver tankard, Augustin Heyne, Breslau, early 17th century. <b>Estimate: $6,000–$8,000</b>; A German parcel gilt silver beaker with cover. <b>Estimate: $2,000–$3,000</b>
Left to Right: A fine German parcel gilt silver tankard, Augustin Heyne, Breslau, early 17th century. Estimate: $6,000–$8,000; A German parcel gilt silver beaker with cover. Estimate: $2,000–$3,000
A fine Italian maiolica jar, Gerace (Calabria), 17th century.<br><b>Estimate: $4,000–$6,000</b>
A fine Italian maiolica jar, Gerace (Calabria), 17th century.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000

Fine Art

The Fine Art category will feature a broad range of works from celebrated artists across time periods and styles. Leading the sale is an oil on canvas by Edmund Osthaus (German-American, 1858–1928), depicting three setters in a lush autumn landscape. Osthaus is celebrated for his detailed portrayals of hunting dogs, and this exemplary piece is estimated at $20,000–$40,000.


Edmund Henry Osthaus (German/American, 1858–1928), Three Hunting Dogs in a Landscape, oil on canvas, 25″ x 43″. Estimate: $20,000–$40,000
Edmund Henry Osthaus (German/American, 1858–1928), Three Hunting Dogs in a Landscape, oil on canvas, 25″ x 43″.
Estimate: $20,000–$40,000

Also on offer is a tranquil oil landscape by Albert Bierstadt (German-American, 1830–1902), known for his luminous and romantic views of the American West. The painting features rolling hills, a lake, and a pastel sunset sky, and carries an estimate of $10,000–$15,000. From the mid-20th century, a gelatin silver print by Diane Arbus (American, 1923–1971), titled Russian Midget Friends in a Living Room on 100th St., New York City, 1963, will be featured. This intimate and striking photograph is estimated at $7,000–$10,000.


Albert Bierstadt (American, 1830–1902), Untitled (Sunset on the Mountains), oil on canvas, 9″ x 12.25″. Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
Albert Bierstadt (American, 1830–1902), Untitled (Sunset on the Mountains), oil on canvas, 9″ x 12.25″.
Estimate: $10,000–$15,000

Additional highlights include paintings by John Marshall Gamble, Franz Bischoff, and Edward Mitchell Bannister, as well as prints by Sam Francis and Mel Ramos.


Diane Arbus (American, 1923–1971), Russian Midget Friends in a Living Room on 100th St. New York City, 1963 (later printing), gelatin silver print, 14.5″ x 14.5″. Estimate: $7,000–$10,000
Diane Arbus (American, 1923–1971), Russian Midget Friends in a Living Room on 100th St. New York City, 1963 (later printing), gelatin silver print, 14.5″ x 14.5″.
Estimate: $7,000–$10,000

Fine Jewelry & Watches

Clars’ Jewelry & Watches department will present a diverse collection of fine diamonds, colored gemstones, and antique and period pieces, including signed examples from notable makers. Highlights include a natural alexandrite, diamond, and 18k gold ring estimated at $3,000–$5,000; a colored diamond and 18k gold ring estimated at $2,500–$3,500; and a matching bracelet and ring set featuring diamonds in 14k gold, expected to bring $3,500–$4,500.


A natural alexandrite, diamond, and 18k gold ring.<br><b>Estimate: $3,000–$5,000</b>
A natural alexandrite, diamond, and 18k gold ring.
Estimate: $3,000–$5,000
A diamond and 14k gold bracelet and ring.<br><b>Estimate: $3,500–$4,500</b>
A diamond and 14k gold bracelet and ring.
Estimate: $3,500–$4,500

Also featured are a sapphire, seed pearl, and 14k gold brooch estimated at $1,000–$2,000, and a Victorian mourning locket with a $150–$250 estimate. The sale includes a particularly strong group of Art Deco and Victorian jewelry, reflecting timeless elegance and exquisite craftsmanship.


A Victorian mourning locket.<br><b>Estimate: $150–$250</b>
A Victorian mourning locket.
Estimate: $150–$250

Asian Art

The Asian Art department is proud to present a refined offering of Chinese works of art that reflect the cultural symbolism and meticulous artistry of traditional craftsmanship. Featured in the sale is a pair of finely embroidered Chinese panels, intricately worked with auspicious imagery including dragons, phoenixes, qilin, lingzhi, and deer — symbols of prosperity, harmony, and longevity. Another standout is a gold-embroidered rustground dragon robe, a richly decorated textile evoking the imperial splendor of Qing dynasty court attire.


A pair of Chinese embroidered dragon and phoenix panels. Estimate: $2,000–$3,000
A pair of Chinese embroidered dragon and phoenix panels.
Estimate: $2,000–$3,000

Complementing the textiles is a Chinese huanghuali side table, admired for its graceful proportions and deep patina. The auction also includes jade articles, ceramics, scholar’s objects, and additional embroidered textiles, making this a compelling opportunity for collectors of Asian art.


A Chinese huanghuali side table.<br><b>Estimate: $4,000–$6,000</b>
A Chinese huanghuali side table.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000

The Warehouse Auction: July 19th

On Saturday, July 19th, Clars will host its Warehouse Auction, offering a diverse selection of items at accessible price points. This sale will feature an eclectic mix of art, prints, photographs, modern and antique furniture, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, and decorative objects. Notable highlights from the Asian Art section will include Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, and folding screens — perfect for collectors looking to add unique, culturally significant pieces to their collections. The jewelry segment will showcase a variety of affordable diamond and silver necklaces, while the broader Warehouse Auction will offer an affordable range of modern and antique furniture, home décor and collectible toys.

Bidding for Clars’ July auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auctions is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auctions is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auctions 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 Auctions has sold well over $500,000,000 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

April Gallery Auction Highlights

Our April 17th auction will feature distinguished design, craftsmanship, and notable works by artists across cultures and periods.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

March Gallery Auction Highlights

The March 20th Gallery Auction will offer a dynamic selection that spans Asian works of art, fine art, furniture, and decorative arts.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

A Trusted Partnership

Clars is honored to present a distinguished group of works from the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco at auction on March 19th.

  • Fine Art
  • Highlights

Antique Diamonds: A Collector’s Auction Highlights

Leading the March 19th auction is an Art Deco platinum ring set with a 4.92-carat F color, VS2 clarity cut-cornered square step-cut diamond.

  • Fine Jewelry & Watches
  • Highlights

Asian Works of Art Highlights

The Asian Works of Art Auction on February 19th will feature a curated selection of Chinese and Japanese works.

  • Asian Art
  • Highlights

Important Fine Art Highlights

Clars’ Important Fine Art Auction on February 19th presents an exceptional selection of artworks by celebrated artists.

  • Fine Art
  • Highlights

Effortless Sophistication in Motion

  • Design
  • Stories & News

The Furniture & Decorative Arts portion of the April 18th auction will feature an impressive selection pieces. Featured is a sculptural Alvar Aalto bentwood tea trolley.


Crafted by Finnish modernist master Alvar Aalto, this elegant tea trolley exemplifies his signature minimalist form. Aalto’s visionary approach to design brought warmth and humanity to modernism — balancing clean lines with natural materials.


This piece is not only functional — it’s a sculptural icon of 20th-century design.


An Alvar Aalto bentwood tea trolley. Estimate: $2,500–$3,500
An Alvar Aalto bentwood tea trolley.
Estimate: $2,500–$3,500

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Now Seeking Consignments

Incredible prices are being achieved at auction—if you’ve ever considered selling, now is the time.

  • Consignments
  • Stories & News

Property from the Emmy & Dolph Andrews Estate

Our February 20th Auction will present an exceptional selection from the Emmy & Dolph Andrews Estate

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

2025 End of Year Review

As we bid farewell to 2025, we take a moment to reflect on the remarkable moments and milestones we’ve shared with you throughout the year.

  • Highlights
  • Stories & News

Property from Estate of Senator Dianne Feinstein

The property being offered December 18th reflects the senator’s refined taste and graceful aesthetic.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Naomi Lindstrom: Worldwide Beads & Tribal Art

We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Modern Design: Visionaries of the 20th Century

Clars will offer a strong lineup of Modern Design in our July 18th auction. Highlights include pieces by Philip and Kelvin Laverne, Robert Mallet-Stevens, and James Mont.

  • Design
  • Highlights

Pawn Stars featuring Clars’ Deric Torres

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Stories & News

Big moment on Pawn Stars! Our very own appraiser, Deric Torres from Clars Auctions, helped a customer who thought she had a rare Oscar Bach Hall telephone table worth a fortune. After closely inspecting the piece, Deric revealed it wasn’t authentic — here’s why:


…because the casting was not well done, not marked, and not executed in the same manner one would expect on a well-documented authentic example. Below is information about the history of the firm, and Bach’s bitter break up with business partner Bertram Segar — who is infamous for making poor reproductions of designs created by Bach.


Deric Torres, Clars Senior Vice President and Furniture specialist, on <em>Pawn Stars</em>.
Deric Torres, Clars Senior Vice President and Furniture specialist, on Pawn Stars (Airdate 4/2/25).
A reproduction of an Oscar Bach Hall telephone table which was evaluated by Deric on the show.
A reproduction of an Oscar Bach Hall telephone table which was evaluated by Deric on the show (Airdate 4/2/25).

Oscar Bach was a technically adept, stylistically diverse, and commercially successful master metalsmith. Born in Germany, he studied at both the Royal Academy and Imperial Academy of Art in Berlin before becoming the artistic director of a metallic arts firm in Hamburg. In 1911, Bach won the Grand Prix at the World’s Exposition in Turin for a bed he designed for Kaiser Wilhelm II. That same year, he moved to the United State to establish a business with his brother Max in New York City.

The brothers quickly opened a metal design studio and flourished throughout the 1920s and 30s, with Oscar creating beautiful objects for wealthy New York clientele and custom architectural elements for country estates. He designed a multitude of domestic objects and grand commissions, including the lobby panel for the Empire State Building and monumental plaques for Radio City Music Hall — created in collaboration with Hildreth Meiere. Bach was awarded the prestigious Medal of Honor in 1926 from the Architectural League of New York for a set of bronze doors he designed for their club room. Not just a talented designer, but a savvy marketer and self-promoter, Bach enjoyed a long and successful career. His work can be found in the permanent collections of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Minneapolis Museum of Art, The Wolfsonian, and Reynolda House.


Deric explains to the customer that the casting on her piece is not crisp as it would be on an Oscar Bach piece.
Deric explains to the customer that the casting on her piece is not crisp as it would be on an Oscar Bach piece (Airdate 4/2/25).

In April of 1923, upon an acrimonious split with a third business partner named Bertram Segar, the Bach brothers moved to a new studio at 511 West 42nd Street and renamed their firm Oscar B. Bach and Associated Craftsmen. Bertram Segar remained in the West 17th Street studio, renaming it The Segar Studios. There, Bertram Segar continued to reproduce many of Bach’s original designs and variations on Bach’s designs, either selling them in an unmarked state or stamping them with his SEGAR STUDIOS mark.

Desperate to set the record straight, Bach put full page advertisements in multiple issues of Arts & Decorations stating that, “All products designed and executed in my studios bear my facsimile signature, and no other articles are genuine.” And, “It is distressing to find other things — ugly things that I could not create, put before the public with the insinuation that they are my work. It is not only distressing but a fraud on the public.”

Blockquote Sources:
The Met
Reynolda

In Deric’s opinion, although the table is an inauthentic Bach reproduction, it is still a showcase piece that would be worth around a retail price of $2,000.
In Deric’s opinion, although the table is an inauthentic Bach reproduction, it is still a showcase piece that would be worth around a retail price of $2,000 (Airdate 4/2/25).

This is why the conclusion of it not being authentic was determined. Watch the full story unfold and how Deric gently let the buyer down easy (we hope). Catch the episode and let us know what you think!

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Now Seeking Consignments

Incredible prices are being achieved at auction—if you’ve ever considered selling, now is the time.

  • Consignments
  • Stories & News

Property from the Emmy & Dolph Andrews Estate

Our February 20th Auction will present an exceptional selection from the Emmy & Dolph Andrews Estate

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

2025 End of Year Review

As we bid farewell to 2025, we take a moment to reflect on the remarkable moments and milestones we’ve shared with you throughout the year.

  • Highlights
  • Stories & News

Property from Estate of Senator Dianne Feinstein

The property being offered December 18th reflects the senator’s refined taste and graceful aesthetic.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Fine Interiors Auction Highlights

The Fine Interiors Auction is anchored by an important estate designed by the renowned interior design firm Parish-Hadley Associates.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Georg Jensen Silver Collection of the Lyons

Tom and Gussie Lyon’s shared love of design, art, and architecture began soon after their wedding in the early 1950s.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Globe Trotting in Style: French Steamer Trunks

  • Designer Spotlight
  • Furniture & Decorative Arts

Designer French steamer trunks have been collected by both aficionados and novice collectors alike for decades, but what makes them so collectible?


In order to get a better understanding of steamer trunks and their popularity, it is necessary to learn more about their historical context. Following the Industrial Revolution, the invention of steam locomotives and ocean liners from the early to mid-19th century opened the door for intercontinental travel. This resulted in increased use of large trunks to transport traveler’s belongings.


A Louis Vuitton monogram steamer trunk.Estimate: $7,000–$9,000
A Louis Vuitton monogram steamer trunk.
Sold: $10,710

Originally, steamer trunks had a domed top that would protect fine clothing from the elements. However, with increased travel on large ocean liners and trains, how could locomotives and liners successfully store so many pieces of luggage? In response, Louis Vuitton established his company in 1854, fashioning high end steamer trunks with an innovative rectangular form.


Damier checkerboard canvas trunk, circa 1895.
Damier checkerboard canvas trunk, circa 1895.

Surprisingly, the first Louis Vuitton trunks did not use the well-known monogram canvas. Early steamer trunks were made in grey canvas. Beginning in 1872, this changed to red and beige striped canvas, and in 1888, moved to a Damier checkerboard canvas. It was not until after Louis Vuitton’s death that the company began to produce trunks with the signature Louis Vuitton monogrammed pattern.


A Louis Vuitton Damier checkerboard canvas trunk, circa 1890.
A Louis Vuitton Damier checkerboard canvas trunk, circa 1890.

How can you find the date of your Louis Vuitton steamer trunk?

The first clue lies with the label found on the interior. Generally, you should pay close attention to the store locations. The newer the trunk, the more store locations included on the label. Here are several images of labels on a variety of trunks offered at Clars.


Louis Vuitton labels. Top Left: circa 1895; Top Right: circa 1910; Middle: circa 1920; Bottom Left: circa 1920s; Bottom Right: circa 1960s.
Louis Vuitton labels. Top Left: circa 1895; Top Right: circa 1910; Middle: circa 1920; Bottom Left: circa 1920s; Bottom Right: circa 1960s.

Additionally, you will want to find a stamped or printed serial number. It is also important to take a look at the engravings on the hardware, as well as embroidery and stitching on the interior. Signatures will also appear on other elements, right down to the hangers. As antique Louis Vuitton trunks were not mechanically massed produced, there are many details to look for.


Louis Vuitton trunk detail.
Louis Vuitton trunk detail.

What should I look for when purchasing a Louis Vuitton trunk?

There are several important factors to ask when buying a Louis Vuitton trunk, but it is most important to purchase your trunk from a reputable source. It is imperative is to request additional photographs, and ask the seller questions about the trunk. When in doubt, it is important to send photographs of your trunk and label to a reputable gallery.


Louis Vuitton trunk detail.
Louis Vuitton trunk detail.

Steamer trunks are only one of many forms of luggage produced by Louis Vuitton. Clars has sold a variety of forms, including a train case, a cabin trunk, a wardrobe, as well as hardcase luggage. A form that is rarer can be more collectible, for example this exceptional vertical Louis Vuitton steamer trunk with basket insert that hammered for $13,000. For further reading, Louis Vuitton has produced a guide titled Louis Vuitton: 100 Legendary Trunks, which includes over eight hundred photographs of Louis Vuitton trunks and luggage.


A Louis Vuitton rare steamer trunk, circa 1920.<br><b>Sold: $13,000</b>
A Louis Vuitton rare steamer trunk, circa 1920.
Sold: $13,000

Are there other early 20th century French designers who manufactured steamer trunks?

Louis Vuitton was not the only French designer manufacturing steamer trunks at the turn of the 20th century. Another well-known and collectible French designer is Goyard. Goyard was established in 1853, just one year before Louis Vuitton opened his doors. While the company began under the leadership of Francois Goyard, many rectangular steamer trunks, circa 1900, were created under the authority of Edmond Goyard (1860–1937). Goyard is known for its signature chevron canvas. Similar to Louis Vuitton, it is important to take a look at the hardware and interior stitching. As Goyard was also a high end producer, the hardware should be engraved or embossed, and the interior should have the original stitched Goyard strapwork.


Goyard steamer trunk pattern.
Goyard steamer trunk pattern.

Again, if you are unsure if your trunk is an authentic Louis Vuitton or Goyard example, it is advisable to send photographs to a knowledgeable gallery. It is also imperative that you purchase trunks from trustworthy galleries, and ask for additional photographs. A reliable gallery will be happy to address and questions or concerns you may have about a piece.


A Goyard steamer trunk, circa 1900.
A Goyard steamer trunk, circa 1900.

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Fine Interiors Auction Highlights

The Fine Interiors Auction is anchored by an important estate designed by the renowned interior design firm Parish-Hadley Associates.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Georg Jensen Silver Collection of the Lyons

Tom and Gussie Lyon’s shared love of design, art, and architecture began soon after their wedding in the early 1950s.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Musical Instrument Collection of Hank Risan

Hank Risan’s musical instrument collection included more than 750 examples of fine 19th and 20th century acoustic instruments.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Memorabilia from The Maltese Falcon

On October 17th, Clars is proud to offer an iconic piece of Hollywood history: a Maltese Falcon prop from the 1941 film noir classic.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Jazz Collection Performs Beautifully at Auction

On October 18th we are excited to present Session II of a Jazz collection featuring very exciting pieces.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

A Step Back in Time!

Clars Auctions’ Senior Vice President, Deric Torres, was honored to participate in a celebration hosted by The Menlo Park Historical Association and The Museum of American Heritage.

  • Event
  • Furniture & Decorative Arts

Craftsmanship in the Realm of Analog and Digital
Nov. 20th, 1 PM PST

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

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

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

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


Katie McCann (British, b. 1969), <em>Frost Flowers</em>, 2024, collage on painted wood panel, 11″ x 14″.<br><b>Estimate: $1,000–$1,500</b>
Katie McCann (British, b. 1969), Frost Flowers, 2024, collage on painted wood panel, 11″ x 14″.
Estimate: $1,000–$1,500

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

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


Katie McCann.
Katie McCann.

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


Carolina de Bartolo.
Carolina de Bartolo.

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


Carolina de Bartolo (American, b. 1966), <em>Vermilion Sunrise</em>, 2023, archival inkjet (giclee) print on moab entrada, 42″ × 24″.<br><b>Estimate: $1,500–$2,000</b>
Carolina de Bartolo (American, b. 1966), Vermilion Sunrise, 2023, archival inkjet (giclee) print on moab entrada, 42″ × 24″.
Estimate: $1,500–$2,000

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

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

Note: This work is unique, and only one exists in this format. The successful buyer will have the opportunity to receive the digital asset as a complimentary NFT, transferred to them with the assistance of exhibited.at and the artist, should they wish. Giclée printing uses pigment-based inks and high-resolution printers to create detailed, vivid, and accurate reproductions of art. Moab Estrada is a 100% cotton sheet, archival, with a lightly textured, bright white surface that can faithfully represent a full range of colors.

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

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

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April Gallery Auction Highlights

Our April 17th auction will feature distinguished design, craftsmanship, and notable works by artists across cultures and periods.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

March Gallery Auction Highlights

The March 20th Gallery Auction will offer a dynamic selection that spans Asian works of art, fine art, furniture, and decorative arts.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

February Gallery Auction Highlights

The February 20th Gallery Auction will present a diverse selection of furniture and decorative arts, jewelry, and fine art.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

January Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on January 16th will feature distinguished design, fine craftsmanship, and notable works by artists and artisans across cultures and periods.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

December Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on December 19th will feature a diverse selection of fine art, jewelry, sterling silver, furniture, decorative arts, and carpets.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

November Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on November 21st will feature a notable collection of jazz ephemera, Fine Art and Asian Art.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

Designer Spotlight: Niamh Barry

  • Designer Spotlight
  • Stories & News

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


With a background in both fine arts and design, Barry’s artistic journey is rooted in a lifelong fascination with the natural world. Her creations draw inspiration from organic forms and the intricate patterns found in nature, emphasizing the dynamic interplay of light and shadow.


Niamh Barry (Irish, b. 1968), This Is What I Like #1, copper and glass light fixture, 2013, 48″ x 55″.
Niamh Barry (Irish, b. 1968), This Is What I Like #1, copper and glass light fixture, 2013, 48″ x 55″.
Sold: $50,400

Barry’s work is characterized by its ability to evoke emotions and create immersive atmospheres, transforming functional objects into stunning focal points. Each piece reflects her meticulous attention to detail and her commitment to quality, showcasing her skillful blend of traditional techniques with contemporary design principles. This unique approach has garnered her significant acclaim within the design community, leading to numerous exhibitions and collaborations.

Her work not only serves a practical purpose but also invites viewers to engage with the transformative power of light, making her fixtures an essential component of modern interior design. With a growing portfolio of work and a reputation for excellence, Barry continues to push the boundaries of design, establishing herself as a prominent figure in the art and lighting design world.


Niamh Barry (Irish, b. 1968), <em>Themes and Variations</em>, copper and glass hanging light fixture, 94″ x 12″.<br><b>Sold: $15,120</b>
Niamh Barry (Irish, b. 1968), Themes and Variations, copper and glass hanging light fixture, 94″ x 12″.
Sold: $15,120

Clars is thrilled to have featured one of Barry’s light fixtures in our October 18th auction, titled This Is What I Like #1, a copper and glass light fixture from 2013, measuring 48″ x 55″. The competitive bidding — both online and via phone — resulted in the piece selling for an impressive $50,400, well above its estimated value of $4,000–$6,000. This clearly reflects the strong demand for her work in the collectible market, and Clars is proud to represent her creations. Its new home will be in a Contemporary Modern mansion in California.

Sources:
Surface Magazine
incollect
D5 Magazine
Niamh Barry

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Now Seeking Consignments

Incredible prices are being achieved at auction—if you’ve ever considered selling, now is the time.

  • Consignments
  • Stories & News

Property from the Emmy & Dolph Andrews Estate

Our February 20th Auction will present an exceptional selection from the Emmy & Dolph Andrews Estate

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

2025 End of Year Review

As we bid farewell to 2025, we take a moment to reflect on the remarkable moments and milestones we’ve shared with you throughout the year.

  • Highlights
  • Stories & News

Property from Estate of Senator Dianne Feinstein

The property being offered December 18th reflects the senator’s refined taste and graceful aesthetic.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Naomi Lindstrom: Worldwide Beads & Tribal Art

We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

The Story of Eddi Van Auken

For over 30 years Eddi acquired, researched, and catalogued antique walking sticks from around the world.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Artists to Watch: California

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Clars in collaboration with exhibited.at is honored to present the visionary inaugural auction: Artists to Watch: California. This section will lead the Spring Modern + Contemporary Art + Design Auction held on March 21st, 2 PM PDT.

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

California has long been a force for artistic innovation, and this auction aims to showcase the work of ten pioneering artists based in the Golden State. A few of the artists who will be featured in this inaugural sale are Gabe Weis and Alexa Arnold.


Gabe Weis (American, 20th century), <em>So What?</em>, 2023, mixed media collage with acrylic paint, oil markers, and graffiti markers on canvas, canvas: 40″ x 30″.
Gabe Weis (American, 20th century), So What?, 2023, mixed media collage with acrylic paint, oil markers, and graffiti markers on canvas, 40″ x 30″.
Estimate: $7,000–$10,000

Gabe Weiss is a mixed media and NFT artist living in the Bay Area. The self-taught artist is inspired by street art and stoic philosophy and uses a stream-of-consciousness approach to his work to explore perceptions of reality. His physical and digital works are shown internationally. This past year, his work has been exhibited at the Venice Biennale, Picasso Museum, Seattle Art Fair, and various galleries throughout Asia and the United States. Gabe is committed to sustainability in his craft. By reusing older materials found around the house, such as cereal boxes, maps, and old dictionaries to create timeless works, he hopes his work inspires others to reuse materials as part of their art practice.


Gabe Weis (American, 20th century), Oppose Reality, 2023, mixed media with watercolor crayons, acrylic paint, and graphite on watercolor paper, paper: 30″ x 22.5″.
Gabe Weis (American, 20th century), Oppose Reality, 2023, mixed media with watercolor crayons, acrylic paint, and graphite on watercolor paper, 30″ x 22.5″.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000

Alexis Arnold is a mixed media visual artist in Oakland, CA. Her artwork has been exhibited nationally and internationally, including at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Aspen Art Museum, Napa Valley Museum, Whatcom Museum, Beaux-Arts Mons Belgium, Atlanta Airport, Bergdorf Goodman, di Rosa, and The NY Hall of Science. Alexis’ work is included in the collections of SFMOMA, Meta, VCU, MediaMath, Costa Cruises, University of Pittsburgh, and others.


Alexis Arnold (American, 20th century), Book, ‘Oxford Deictionary of Art’, 2024, Crystallized Book Series, book and borax sculpture, signed verso, overall: 7.75″ x 11″ x 8″.
Alexis Arnold (American, 20th century), Book, ‘Oxford Deictionary of Art’, 2024, Crystallized Book Series, book and borax sculpture, overall: 7.75″ x 11″ x 8″.
Estimate: $1,500–$2,500

The history of art in California holds profound significance, reflecting a dynamic intersection of cultural, social, and environmental influences. As a beacon of creativity and innovation, California has been a canvas for diverse artistic movements — from the early 20th-century Bohemian enclaves to the rise of contemporary art hubs. The state’s artistic legacy truly encapsulates the spirit of experimentation and cultural diversity unique to California, its rich history nourishing the evolution of artistic expression and societal shifts, and the transformative power of the Californian landscape on the creative imagination.


Alexis Arnold (American, 20th century), <em>Torus</em>, 2022, acrylic on cotton rag, signed verso, rag: 26″ x 18″, overall (frame): 29″ x 21.5″.
Alexis Arnold (American, 20th century), Torus, 2022, acrylic on cotton rag, 26″ x 18″, overall (frame): 29″ x 21.5″.
Estimate: $3,000–$4,000

With this inaugural auction, we take great pride in introducing ten esteemed artists who persistently enrich the tapestry of California art. Their work resonates with audiences and collectors worldwide, serving as pioneers in the evolution of artistic expression. We invite you to immerse yourself in this presentation, offering an opportunity to discover, connect, and support those instrumental in shaping the lasting legacy of California’s art history.

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

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April Gallery Auction Highlights

Our April 17th auction will feature distinguished design, craftsmanship, and notable works by artists across cultures and periods.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

March Gallery Auction Highlights

The March 20th Gallery Auction will offer a dynamic selection that spans Asian works of art, fine art, furniture, and decorative arts.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

February Gallery Auction Highlights

The February 20th Gallery Auction will present a diverse selection of furniture and decorative arts, jewelry, and fine art.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

January Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on January 16th will feature distinguished design, fine craftsmanship, and notable works by artists and artisans across cultures and periods.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

December Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on December 19th will feature a diverse selection of fine art, jewelry, sterling silver, furniture, decorative arts, and carpets.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

November Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on November 21st will feature a notable collection of jazz ephemera, Fine Art and Asian Art.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

Spring Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

This March we are excited to present several very special works in our Spring Modern + Contemporary Art + Design Auction.

We are privileged and honored to present a very important work by 1991 National Artist of the Philippines, Hernando Ruiz Ocampo. Ocampo stands as an iconic artist in the Philippines, being a leader of modernist painting in the country during the first half of the twentieth century. The monumental work by Ocampo in our March sale, one of only two made by the artist in this size, is titled Mga Kiti, which can be taken as a reference to either duck embryos or mosquito larvae. Dating to 1978, the scroll-like painting, done in acrylic paint on Tetoron fabric, showcases a repeating pattern of similar forms that echo human figures, the bodies of birds, lotus pods, and cellular structures.


Hernando Ruiz Ocampo (Filipino, 1911–1978), Mga Kiti, 1978, acrylic on Tetoron, 35.5″ x 354.25″ (zoomed in shot).
Hernando Ruiz Ocampo (Filipino, 1911–1978), Mga Kiti, 1978, acrylic on Tetoron, 35.5″ x 354.25″ (zoomed in shot).
Estimate: $700,000–$1,000,000

Another featured work is a life-size ceramic kimono by American sculptor, Karen LaMonte. LaMonte is known for her sculptures of garments which appear to be draped over a human form but stand alone as if moving on their own. LaMonte works in glass, bronze, and ceramic, and the child’s kimono in our March sale is made of ceramic with a light blue celadon glaze.


Karen LaMonte (American, b. 1967), Child's Kimono, ceramic with celadon glaze, overall: 40″ x 17.5″ x 12″.
Karen LaMonte (American, b. 1967), Child’s Kimono, ceramic with celadon glaze, overall: 40″ x 17.5″ x 12″.
Estimate: $30,000–$50,000
Eric Goulder (American, b. 1954), The Woman, 1991, bronze sculpture, overall: 32″ x 21″ x 23″.
Eric Goulder (American, b. 1954), The Woman, 1991, sculpture bronze, overall: 32″ x 21″ x 23″.
Estimate: $20,000–$30,000

Another sculpture highlight in the March sale is a bronze by Eric Goulder, titled The Woman. This figural piece depicts a nude woman seated while raising a hand to her mouth — a look of surprise on her face. The nearly life-size sculpture is formed in a highly realistic style displaying musculature and hair texture, as well as emotion and body language.


Henrietta Berk (American, 1919–1990), Untitled (Seated Figures/Possibly JFK and Jackie), oil on canvas, 48″ x 54″.
Henrietta Berk (American, 1919–1990), Untitled (Seated Figures/Possibly JFK and Jackie), oil on canvas, 48″ x 54″.
Estimate: $10,000–$15,000

Moving on to our selection of paintings this March, we are pleased to offer two works by Bay Area Figurative Movement member, Henrietta Berk. Berk is celebrated for her emotive use of color and the strong element of movement in her painting. She often utilizes an impasto painting technique, which we see in both pieces in the March auction. One painting, titled Spanish Landscape, depicts a starkly lit town with a blazing orange sky over green fields and scattered buildings. The second piece, an untitled figurative painting, shows a young woman and man seated and talking in the grass. Speculation of this work and other similar pieces by Berk alleges that the couple is modeled after President John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.


Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), Seated Nude (Erica), 1976–78, oil on canvas, 40″ x 40″.
Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), Seated Nude (Erica), 1976–78, oil on canvas, 40″ x 40″. Note: This work was commissioned by the artist’s friend, Maurice Amzallag. Amzallag was a restaurant owner (as well as a poet, artist and architect) in Los Altos, California. This is a portrait of Amzallag’s wife, Erica.
Estimate: $40,000–$60,000

Another standout in the March auction is a large oil on canvas by Latvian-American painter, Raimonds Staprans. Staprans built a large following while practicing in San Francisco during the second half of the 20th century. He is known for bold color and painterly brushwork, often focusing on architectural landscapes and still lifes. The painting at Clars this month is a rare figural work depicting a female nude. Staprans maintains his signature bold color and audacious painting technique in his exploration of the human figure.


Enrico Donati (American/Italian, 1909–2008), Cerveteri in Red + Blue, 1984–85, oil and mixed media (sand) on canvas, 60″ x 50″.
Enrico Donati (American/Italian, 1909–2008), Cerveteri in Red + Blue, 1984–85, oil and mixed media (sand) on canvas, 60″ x 50″.
Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
Joan Brown (American, 1938–1990), Running at Ocean Beach, 1976, pencil and gouache on paper, 17.75″ x 24″.
Joan Brown (American, 1938–1990), Running at Ocean Beach, 1976, pencil and gouache on paper, 17.75″ x 24″.
Estimate: $10,000–$15,000

Also included this March are large paintings by Enrico Donati and Hunt Slonem, a work on paper and print by Bay Area artist Joan Brown, and much more.


Juvenal Sanso (Spanish/Filipino, b. 1929), Untitled (Surreal Landscape), oil on canvas, 23″ x 28″.
Juvenal Sanso (Spanish/Filipino, b. 1929), Untitled (Surreal Landscape), oil on canvas, 23.75″ x 28.75″.
Estimate: $30,000–$50,000
Goetz Valien (Austrian, b. 1960), Ego, 2007, acrylic on canvas, 108″ x 120″.
Goetz Valien (Austrian, b. 1960), Ego, 2007, acrylic on canvas, 108″ x 120″.
Estimate: $25,000–$35,000
Matt Gondek (American, b 1982), Rugrats, acrylic on canvas, 47.5″ x 71.5″.
Matt Gondek (American, b 1982), Rugrats, acrylic on canvas, 47.5″ x 71.5″.
Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
Lenore Tawney (American, 1907–2007), Blue Moon, warp-faced weft-ribbed plain weave with collage and paint, weaving: 13″ x 10″, overall (with shadowbox): 17″ x 14.75″.
Lenore Tawney (American, 1907–2007), Blue Moon, warp-faced weft-ribbed plain weave with collage and paint, weaving: 13″ x 10″, overall (with shadowbox): 17″ x 14.75″.
Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
John Evans (American, b. 1945), Beach Parking, 1997, oil on canvas, 48″ x 52.25″. Provenance: Acquired by descent from the Estate of Allan Stone.
John Evans (American, b. 1945), Beach Parking, 1997, oil on canvas, 48″ x 52.25″. Provenance: Acquired by descent from the Estate of Allan Stone.
Estimate: $7,000–$10,000
Sylvia Lark (American, 1947–1990), China, No, 1987, oil on canvas, 60″ x 78″. From the private Collection of Allan Stone.
Sylvia Lark (American, 1947–1990), China, No, 1987, oil on canvas, 60″ x 78″. From the private Collection of Allan Stone. Note: Born in Buffalo of Native American and Italian-American heritage, Lark had exhibited in over 125 national and international group shows and is in the permanent collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York), the Museum of Contemporary Art (Chicago), the University Art Museum (Berkeley, CA), the Oakland Museum, the Legion of Honor, (San Francisco), Bank of America World Headquarters (San Francisco), and ARCO Foundation (Los Angeles) among others.
Estimate: $7,000–$10,000
Richard MacDonald (American, b 1946), Elena II, bronze sculpture, overall (with base): 26.5″ x 13″ x 13″.
Richard MacDonald (American, b 1946), Elena II, 2004, patinated bronze sculpture, overall: 26.5″ x 13″ x 13″.
Estimate: $6,000–$9,000

Davide Salvadore (Italian, b. 1956), Chitimara 2, Murrini glass with fiber, 29.5″ x 12.5″ x 16″.
Davide Salvadore (Italian, b. 1956), Chitimara 2, Murrini glass with fiber, 29.5″ x 12.5″ x 16″.
Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Therman Statom (American, b. 1953), Agua de Esmerelda, glass with mixed media, overall: 84″ x 16″ x 5″.
Therman Statom (American, b. 1953), Agua de Esmerelda, glass with mixed media, overall: 84″ x 16″ x 5″.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000

Henrietta Berk (American, 1919–1990), <em>Spanish Landscape</em>, 1941, oil on canvas, 36″ x 40″.
Henrietta Berk (American, 1919–1990), Spanish Landscape, 1941, oil on canvas, 36″ x 40″.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000

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April Gallery Auction Highlights

Our April 17th auction will feature distinguished design, craftsmanship, and notable works by artists across cultures and periods.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

March Gallery Auction Highlights

The March 20th Gallery Auction will offer a dynamic selection that spans Asian works of art, fine art, furniture, and decorative arts.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

February Gallery Auction Highlights

The February 20th Gallery Auction will present a diverse selection of furniture and decorative arts, jewelry, and fine art.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

January Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on January 16th will feature distinguished design, fine craftsmanship, and notable works by artists and artisans across cultures and periods.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

December Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on December 19th will feature a diverse selection of fine art, jewelry, sterling silver, furniture, decorative arts, and carpets.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

November Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on November 21st will feature a notable collection of jazz ephemera, Fine Art and Asian Art.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

Contemporary Glass Collection

  • Design
  • Estate Spotlight

Clars is pleased to offer one of the most extensive contemporary glass collections in Northern California as part of a prominent Bay Area estate on Thursday, March 21st in our Spring Modern + Contemporary Art + Design Auction.

Dale Chihuly (American b. 1941) Translucent Violet Persian set with yellow-orange lip wrap, 1992.
Dale Chihuly (American b. 1941), Translucent Violet Persian set with yellow-orange lip wrap, 1992.
Estimate: $15,000–$20,000

The couple were tireless and passionate about the art of glass blowing, and spent over three decades acquiring important pieces. They were known nationally as top tier collectors. From this collection, Clars will be offering iconic pieces from several artists, including Dale Chihuly, Dan Dailey, Therman Statom, David Salvadore, and Joel Phillip Myers.


Dan Dailey, <em>Moon Man</em>, vase, 1992, blown, cut and etched glass, 20″h x 15″dia.
Dan Dailey, Moon Man, vase, 1992, blown, cut and etched glass, 20″h x 15″dia.
Estimate: $8,000–$12,000

A Jay Musler sandblasted and airbrushed paint decorated glass Cityscape bowl.
Jay Musler, Cityscape Bowl, sandblasted and airbrushed paint decorated glass, 9.5″h x 18″dia. Provenance: Marx Saunders Gallery, Chicago, IL 1999.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Joel Philip Myers, Contiguous Fragment Series, vase, glass, 14.5″h x 15.5″w x 3.5″d.
Joel Philip Myers, Contiguous Fragment Series, vase, glass, 14.5″h x 15.5″w x 3.5″d. Provenance: Maurine Littleton Gallery, Washington DC, 2000.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000

Richard Royal, <em>R93-161 & R93-162</em>, Relationship Series, lot of two, 1993, blown and acid etched glass, greatest 32″h. Provenance: Richard Royal Studio, Seattle, WA 1993.
Richard Royal, R93-161 & R93-162, Relationship Series, lot of two, 1993, blown and acid etched glass, greatest 32″h. Provenance: Richard Royal Studio, Seattle, WA 1993.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000
John Littleton and Kate Vogel, <em>Four Bags</em>, 2006, blown glass 17.5″h x 12.5″w x 8″d.
John Littleton and Kate Vogel, Four Bags, 2006, blown glass 17.5″h x 12.5″w x 8″d.
Estimate: $3,000–$5,000

Davide Salvadore (Italian, b. 1956), Chitimara 2, Murrini glass with fiber, 29.5″h x 12.5″w x 16″d.
Davide Salvadore (Italian, b. 1956), Chitimara 2, Murrini glass with fiber, 29.5″h x 12.5″w x 16″d.
Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Therman Statom (American, b. 1953), Agua de Esmerelda, glass with mixed media, overall: 84″h x 16″w x 5″d.
Therman Statom (American, b. 1953), Agua de Esmerelda, glass with mixed media, overall: 84″h x 16″w x 5″d.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000

Steven Klein, Balance 64, two vessels on plinth, 2007, glass, 7″h x 7″dia; base: 1.25″h x 18.5″w.
Steven Klein, Balance 64, two vessels on plinth, 2007, glass, 7″h x 7″dia; base: 1.25″h x 18.5″w. Provenance: Davis and Cline, Ashland, OR, 2008.
Estimate: $2,000–$4,000
Petr Hora, sculpture Czechoslovakia, 1998, glass, signed, 13″h x 17.75″w x 3.25″d. Provenance: Heller Gallery, New York City, NY.
Petr Hora, sculpture Czechoslovakia, 1998, glass, signed, 13″h x 17.75″w x 3.25″d. Provenance: Heller Gallery, New York City, NY.
Estimate: $3,000–$5,000
Concetta Mason, <em>Wild Seed</em>, glass vase on pedestal, 26.5″h x 15″w x 9″d.
Concetta Mason, Wild Seed, glass vase on pedestal, 26.5″h x 15″w x 9″d. Provenance: Heller Gallery, New York, NY, 1995.
Estimate: $2,000–$4,000

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Property from the Emmy & Dolph Andrews Estate

Our February 20th Auction will present an exceptional selection from the Emmy & Dolph Andrews Estate

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Property from Estate of Senator Dianne Feinstein

The property being offered December 18th reflects the senator’s refined taste and graceful aesthetic.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Naomi Lindstrom: Worldwide Beads & Tribal Jewelry

We are honored to present the globally sourced bead and tribal jewelry collection from the Naomi Lindstrom estate on October 16th.

  • Asian Art
  • Estate Spotlight

Naomi Lindstrom: Worldwide Beads & Tribal Art

We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Modern Design: Visionaries of the 20th Century

Clars will offer a strong lineup of Modern Design in our July 18th auction. Highlights include pieces by Philip and Kelvin Laverne, Robert Mallet-Stevens, and James Mont.

  • Design
  • Highlights

Fine Curiosities Auction: The Estate of Eddi Van Auken

The sale offers a rare glimpse into the creative spirit of a connoisseur whose eye for the unusual and the beautiful resulted in a truly one-of-a-kind collection.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Highlights