Clars’ November Gallery Auction on Friday, November 20th presents an engaging opportunity for collectors across fine art, jewelry, and decorative arts, with an especially compelling offering of important works of fine art.

Fine Art

Leading the fine art offerings is Julian Onderdonk’s (American, 1882–1922) Blue Bonnets and Cactus (Near San Antonio), 1920, an oil on canvas board estimated at $60,000–$90,000. Celebrated for his evocative depictions of the Texas landscape, Onderdonk captures the distinctive beauty of the region through his sensitive treatment of light, color, and native flora. This vibrant composition of bluebonnets and cactus reflects the artist’s enduring fascination with the natural landscape of his home state. Another notable highlight is M.C. Escher’s (Dutch, 1898–1972) Puddle, 1952, a woodcut with pencil signature, estimated at $25,000–$35,000. Renowned for his imaginative exploration of perspective, reflection, and visual perception, Escher transforms an otherwise ordinary woodland scene into a compelling study of reflections, where the surrounding landscape is mirrored in a rain-filled puddle.

American artist Charles Wysocki’s (1928–2002) Maine Snow Scene, estimated at $20,000–$30,000, offers a charming depiction of New England life, while Edgar Payne’s (American, 1883–1947) Morning, Mission Viejo Canyon, 1921, also estimated at $20,000–$30,000, brings the California landscape into focus through the work of one of the state’s celebrated plein-air painters. Together, these works demonstrate the breadth of American landscape painting, from the distinctive regional character of the Northeast and Southwest to the sunlit beauty of California.

The selection continues with significant examples of California art and American modernism. Richard Artschwager’s (American, 1923–2013) Railroad Tracks #3, 1974, estimated at $15,000–$25,000, exemplifies the artist’s unconventional approach to materials and the boundaries between painting and sculpture. Selden Connor Gile’s (American, 1897–1947) Fisher Houses, 1925, estimated at $10,000–$15,000, offers another important connection to California’s rich artistic heritage. Gile was a central figure in the Society of Six, a group of Northern California artists recognized for their expressive brushwork, bold color, and modern interpretations of the landscape.

Additional highlights include works by Henri Baptiste Lebasque, whose luminous compositions reflect the color and decorative sensibilities of French Post-Impressionism; Armin Hansen, known for his powerful depictions of maritime life and the California coast; and John Marshall Gamble, celebrated for his impressionistic California landscapes and floral compositions. The sale also features works by José Alvarez DOPA, Edmund Henry Osthaus, and Lois Mailou Jones, representing a range of artistic perspectives and traditions, with estimates ranging from $8,000–$12,000. Rounding out the fine art offerings is Christopher Wilmarth’s Double Gibson, 1971, a contemporary glass and steel sculpture estimated at $8,000–$12,000, demonstrating the diversity of media and artistic expression represented in the auction

Fine Jewelry & Watches

Complementing the important fine art offerings is an attractive selection of fine and antique jewelry. Notable pieces include an antique gemstone and 20K gold bracelet, estimated at $8,000–$12,000; a diamond and 18K bi-color gold brooch-pendant, estimated at $4,000–$6,000; an antique Iberian diamond and 18K gold cross pendant, estimated at $1,500–$2,500; and an antique citrine, seed pearl, and 14K gold brooch, estimated at $700–$1,000.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture & Decorative Arts category adds further dimension to the Friday auction, featuring distinctive examples of decorative craftsmanship and designer furnishings. Highlights include a Philip and Kelvin LaVerne Michelangelo coffee table, estimated at $7,000–$10,000; a pair of Meissen porcelain Schneeballen vases, estimated at $6,000–$8,000; and a striking 93-inch-high Black Forest carved bear hall tree, estimated at $5,000–$7,000. Also featured is a pair of French Neoclassical-style patinated bronze stools in the Egyptian taste, estimated at $6,000–$9,000.

The Warehouse Auction: November 21st

The three-day auction series concludes Saturday, November 21st, with The Warehouse Auction, offering an expansive selection of furniture, decorative arts, collectibles, and other discoveries across a broad range of categories and price points. Known for its diverse offerings and opportunities for discovery, The Warehouse Auction attracts collectors, interior designers, dealers, and first-time buyers seeking distinctive pieces and exceptional values.

Clars’ November Gallery Auction Featuring Important Works of Fine Art this November 20th is brimming with impressive works by highly sought artists.

One standout piece is an oil on canvas board by American Impressionist Julian Onderdonk (1882–1922), one of the most celebrated painters to come from the state of Texas. A San Antonio native, Onderdonk was born into a family of artists and studied in his early career under the renowned William Merritt Chase. Onderdonk’s most beloved works depict fields of bluebonnet flowers, the state flower of Texas. The oil painting in our November auction is titled Blue Bonnets and Cactus (Near San Antonio) and in it, cerulean blooms mingle with a field of green grass and cactus plants under a spring sky. Onderdonk’s bluebonnet paintings are highly prized among collectors of plein air painting, and this work is a beautiful example of the artist’s talent. Blue Bonnets and Cactus (Near San Antonio) is estimated at $60,000–$90,000.

A second highlight in the November auction is a woodcut print by Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher (1898–1982). While Escher is known globally for his surreal, tesseract-like compositions, the woodcut at Clars this month, shows another fascinating aspect of the artist’s oeuvre. Puddle, dating to 1952, functions as a narrative scene; we see the muddy ground impressed with foot and tire prints, and blossoming in the center is a puddle of flat, still water, reflecting the sparse tree canopy above. The unique perspective of the image implores the viewer to place themselves within the scene, perhaps walking after a winter rain shower while the full moon begins to rise. Clars has recently achieved outstanding selling prices with Escher’s work, and this exceptional piece is sure to catch the refined collector’s eye. Puddle is estimated at $25,000–$35,000.

A third featured piece this month is an oil on canvas board by California Society of Six founder Selden Connor Gile (1877–1947). Gile’s style was partially inspired by the Fauve and French Impressionist paintings he saw at the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco, and that influence is apparent in Fisher Houses, the painterly composition to be offered in our November auction. The scene depicts brightly colored buildings hugging the tree-lined coast, with two small boats floating nearby. The pastel tones evoke warm summer weather with vibrant plants and calm waters. This piece is one of several works by Gile, and one of many fine early California paintings, in the November auction. Fisher Houses is estimated at $10,000–$15,000.

Also among the large array of highlights in this sale are an oil on canvas by Charles Wysocki, an acrylic on Celotex by Richard Artschwager, an oil on canvas by Lois Mailou Jones, a mixed media piece by Jose Alvarez DOPA, and dozens of other exquisite pieces offered in time for the upcoming holiday season.

Specialists from Clars Auctions will be in San Francisco at KQED Headquarters on October 30 to offer complimentary auction valuations on your fine art, decorative arts, Asian works of art, jewelry and watches.

Schedule your private appointment with Clars now by emailing [email protected], or by calling (510) 428-0100 x 123. Limit 3 items per appointment.

Incredible prices are being achieved at auction—if you’ve ever considered selling, now is the time. Clars Auctions is currently seeking quality consignments for its upcoming monthly auctions.

Clars’ October Gallery Auction on Friday, October 16th brings together a diverse selection spanning Asian Works of Art, American fine art, European decorative arts, furniture, musical instruments, and 20th-century design, offering collectors works across a range of periods, styles, and media.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture & Decorative Arts offering ranges from European sculpture and religious art to modern design and musical instruments. Highlights include three Continental polychrome and parcel-gilt figures of putti, estimated at $600–$800, and a Baroque polychrome figure of St. Francis Xavier, estimated at $800–$1,200.

A Yamaha CF Nippon Gakki concert grand piano, circa 1975, is estimated at $6,000–$8,000, while a Louis Majorelle and Daum Nancy iron and iridescent glass vase is estimated at $800–$1,200. The section also includes an Italian Renaissance style pietra dura coffee table and a Piero Palange and Werther Toffoloni Hoop chair, circa 1972, estimated at $1,000–$2,000.

Fine Art

The Fine Art selection features works by notable American artists across landscape, printmaking, and works on paper. Ray Strong (1905–2006) is represented by Klamath Country, Oregon Line, an oil on canvas board depicting the artist’s engagement with the Western landscape, estimated at $4,000–$6,000.

Philip Guston’s (1913–1980) Untitled, 1966, a pencil-signed and dated lithograph from an edition of 25, is estimated at $3,000–$5,000. Also featured is an untitled watercolor by Billy Al Bengston (1934–2022), accompanied by the artist’s studio label and estimated at $3,000–$5,000. Together, the works represent different generations and approaches within American art.

Asian Art

The Asian Works of Art section highlights traditional Chinese craftsmanship and materials, including a Chinese white jade snuff bottle with mother-of-pearl inlay, estimated at $2,500–$3,500. Textile highlights include a Chinese kesi blue-ground robe, estimated at $5,000–$7,000, and a Chinese kesi-woven altar “dragon” panel, estimated at $4,000–$6,000, showcasing the intricate artistry of this historic silk-weaving tradition.

The Warehouse Auction: October 17th

The three-day October series concludes Saturday, October 17th, with The Warehouse Auction, offering collectors an opportunity to explore Clars’ expansive warehouse selection.

Known for its variety and discovery-driven appeal, The Warehouse Auction brings together an eclectic mix of furnishings, decorative objects, artwork, and other distinctive items. The sale provides an opportunity to uncover unexpected finds across a broad range of styles, periods, and price points. Additional highlights from The Warehouse Auction will be announced with the release of the auction catalog.

The combination of fine and decorative arts, Asian works, jewelry, and the important Arts & Crafts collection makes the Friday, September 18th Gallery Auction particularly diverse, with material spanning both historic and modern collecting traditions.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Beyond the featured Arts & Crafts material, Friday’s Gallery Auction offers a broad selection of furniture and decorative arts, providing collectors and interior designers with opportunities across a variety of styles and periods. Among the highlights are sculptures from the Palace of Fine Arts, offering a connection to one of San Francisco’s most iconic architectural landmarks. A Louis Vuitton trunk, estimated at $2,000–$4,000, brings the world of historic luxury travel into the sale, while contemporary American craftsmanship is represented by a Philip Moulthrop spalted sweet gum bowl, number 6990, with engraved signature, estimated at $800–$1,200.

A fascinating historical object is a set of Japanese military/naval binoculars, Tokyo (Tokyo Optical Co.) 5 x 4, No. 844, accompanied by a tripod marked TACO 8720A, estimated at $1,200–$1,500, will be up for grabs. Also from the furniture highlights is a pair of Rose Tarlow chairs, estimated at $1,500–$2,000. The decorative arts selection also features a monumental pair of Indian metal-clad candle prickets, estimated at $1,500–$2,000.

The auction also offers a pair of finely crafted Russian decorative objects: an 84 standard silvergilt and cloisonné enamel miniature kovsch by Feodor Ruckert, estimated at $1,500–$2,000, and a Russian 84 standard silver-gilt and enamel set of six teaspoons by Gustav Klingert, estimated at $1,200–$1,800.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

The jewelry offerings provide an appealing range of historic and decorative pieces, from Victorian jewelry and antique gold to an exceptional Pre-Columbian gold object. A standout is a Pre-Columbian high-karat gold Chiriquí frog, estimated at $2,000–$3,000. The small-scale sculpture exemplifies the sophisticated goldworking traditions of the ancient Chiriquí culture of the Isthmian region and is expected to attract collectors of Pre-Columbian art and ancient gold.

The jewelry selection also includes an antique seed pearl, turquoise, diamond, and 10k gold necklace, estimated at $1,000–$2,000, offering a distinctive combination of colorful gemstones and period craftsmanship. Rounding out the highlights are a Victorian hardstone and 14k gold cameo necklace, estimated at $400–$600, and a pair of antique 14k gold earrings, estimated at $350–$550.

Asian Art

The Asian Art section adds another dimension to Friday’s auction, with highlights ranging from Chinese furniture and porcelain to enamel and Japanese cloisonné. Leading the section is a Chinese huanghuali side table, banzhuo, estimated at $10,000–$15,000. The offering highlights the enduring appeal of huanghuali furniture among collectors of Chinese classical furniture and decorative arts.

Also featured is Zhang Daqian (1899–1983), Masterworks of Chang Dai-Chien, estimated at $5,000–$7,000. Additional Asian highlights include a Chinese champlevé enamel tripod censer and cover, estimated at $1,000–$1,500, and a Chinese blue and white handled vase, also estimated at $3,000–$5,000. A set of four Chinese blue and white porcelain wall panels is estimated at $2,000–$4,000, while a Japanese cloisonné enamel vase by the Ando Cloisonné Company carries an estimate of $1,000–$1,500.

The Warehouse Auction: September 19th

The three-day September auction series concludes with The Warehouse Auction, offering collectors, dealers, designers, and enthusiasts a broad and varied selection of property across categories and price points.

The Warehouse Auction provides an opportunity to discover distinctive works, decorative objects, furnishings, and other treasures, making it an accessible and engaging conclusion to the September auction series.

The Important September Fine Art Auction on September 17th, beginning 10 AM PDT at Clars, brings together an exceptional selection of American, European, Latin American, modern, and contemporary art, encompassing paintings, works on paper, prints, photography, and sculpture.

Beginning in California, we have an oil on canvas by Granville Redmond (American, 1871–1935) dating to 1910. Depicting a shepherd guiding his flock through a hilly landscape, the canvas, titled Heading Home, bursts with shades of green lit by the sun and dappled with shadow. The idyllic scene is exemplary of Redmond’s work — depicting the California hills lush with wildflowers. However, the work at Clars this month is notable as one of Redmond’s larger canvases. The vast scene shows the artist’s mastery of texture and light and is not to be missed in this month’s auction. This piece is estimated at $50,000–$70,000.

Another important California scene featured this September is an oil on canvas board by E. Charlton Fortune (American, 1885–1969) titled Unloading the Catch, Monterey. Fortune was a pioneer among female artists, studying with notable painters such as William Merritt Chase and traveling to Europe while developing her unique style. Fortune’s time in Paris influenced her technique as she was exposed to the work of the French Impressionists and Post-Impressionists of the early 20th century.

Upon returning to her family home in Monterey, she used the loose brushwork and bright palettes of her peers in Europe to depict the landscapes and towns of coastal California. Unloading the Catch, Monterey, is a harbor scene in which small fishing boats gather by a dock, bustling with activity while gently floating on the calm, blue waters. Fortune’s harbor scenes are among the most prized in her oeuvre, and fetch some of the highest prices at auction for California Impressionist art. This piece is estimated at $40,000–$60,000.

The auction presents an especially compelling pair of works by renowned Dutch artist M.C. Escher, both with remarkable provenance. Ascending and Descending, 1960, a signed lithograph from an edition of 31/108, is estimated at $30,000–$50,000; while Möbius Strip II (Red Ants), 1963, a signed color woodcut on Japan paper, is estimated at $20,000–$40,000. Both works descended from the collection of Professor Kurt Servos of Menlo Park, California, who purchased the works directly from Escher and was a friend of the artist. The provenance provides a particularly compelling connection between these internationally recognized works and the Bay Area.

Moving south to Mexico, Clars is pleased to offer a masterfully painted acrylic on canvas by Rafael Coronel (1932–2019). Titled La Moneda, Recuerdo de Espana, this portrait of a man in a priestly frock features notable hallmarks of Coronel’s work: smooth application, with sfumato contributing to a surreal atmosphere, and naturalistic precision. The figure holds a gold coin to his chest in a mysterious gesture, staring out at the viewer. Coronel’s work ties into the rich Latin American artistic tradition of magical surrealism, infusing religious imagery with dark whimsy. This painting is estimated at $15,000–$20,000.

Contemporary art is represented by David Wiseman’s Untitled (Branch with Blossoms), estimated at $20,000–$40,000, as well as works by Rafael Coronel, Sergio Hernández, John Hoyland, Paul Jenkins, Paul Wonner, Jennifer Losch Bartlett, and Tom Wesselmann. These works demonstrate the auction’s range across abstraction, figuration, mixed media, and works on paper. The sale also features a strong selection of American and California art, with highlights by artists whose work helped define the visual character of the American West and the Bay Area. Among them are Jessie Arms Botke’s Untitled (Egrets), an oil and gold-leaf work estimated at $15,000–$25,000; Henrietta Berk’s Untitled (View of East Bay), a monumental 72 x 78 inch oil on canvas estimated at $15,000–$20,000; and Thomas Hill’s The Intruder, 1888, estimated at $15,000–$20,000.

Berk is represented by a second work, Racing the Tide, estimated at $7,000–$10,000, while other California-focused highlights include Joseph Kleitsch’s California, Hanson Duvall Puthuff’s The Arroyo, Thomas Bierstadt’s Mt. Starry King, Yosemite, James Harwood’s Waterfall in the Watsatch (Utah), Maynard Dixon’s Arizona, and Helen Thomas Dranga’s Sunlight on the Waves, Hawaii.

The auction also offers works of historical significance and broad international appeal. Edward Bannister’s Bridge Over the Creek, 1886, estimated at $10,000–$15,000, represents the work of one of the most important African American painters of the 19th century. Max Halberstadt’s portrait of Sigmund Freud, a gelatin silver print signed by Freud, is estimated at $10,000–$15,000, providing a fascinating intersection of photography, portraiture, and intellectual history.

Works on paper and prints further enrich the sale, including Paul Cézanne’s The Bathers, small plate (Les Baigneurs, petite planche), 1897, estimated at $7,000–$10,000, as well as works by Tom Wesselmann, John Hoyland, Paul Wonner, and others.

The auction’s contemporary and modern offerings are complemented by sculpture, including a bronze male torso by Igor Mitoraj, estimated at $7,000–$10,000, and the distinctive work of contemporary artist David Wiseman. The breadth of mediums and artistic approaches underscores the diversity of Clars’ Fine Art auctions, where historic works are presented alongside modern and contemporary pieces.

Fine Art has always been at the heart of Clars, and this September auction reflects the remarkable range of material that our collectors have come to expect from the department, said Rick Unruh, CEO and President. We are particularly excited about the strength of the California material, the exceptional provenance of the two Escher works, and the dialogue created by bringing together American, European, Latin American, modern, and contemporary works in a single sale.

1001 Vallejo Street, an iconic “Gold Coast” home at the top of Russian Hill, was designed by Houghton Sawyer following the 1906 earthquake for Robert Hanson.

Later owners include Gabrielle Guittard Cavalsky, tied to the Guittard chocolate legacy, Paul Verdier of the City of Paris department store, and Nobel laureate Myron Scholes. Long known as “The House of the Grand Passion,” the home’s interiors were styled by its current owners to reflect that dramatic history through an avant-garde collection and design — select pieces from which will be offered in the upcoming September Gallery Auction at Clars.

Clars Auctions is pleased to present its three-day August auction series, beginning with the Gallery Auction on Friday, August 14th, followed by The Warehouse Auction on Saturday, August 15th, and concluding with the Clars Wine Cellar Timed Only Auction on Monday, August 17th. Together, the three sales offer collectors an opportunity to acquire fine art, antiques, jewelry, decorative arts, Asian works of art, and wine from distinguished estates and private collections.

Fine Art

The August 14th Gallery Auction showcases an impressive selection of Fine Art led by notable American painters whose works celebrate both California and the American landscape. Leading the category is William Lewis Marple’s Rutherford Hill, a sweeping California landscape, estimated at $6,000–$9,000, alongside Porfirio Salinas’ Texas Autumn, estimated at $5,000–$7,000.

Also featured is Mary DeNeale Morgan’s rare circa 1925 View of Oakland Skyline, estimated at $3,000–$5,000, as well as Edwin Deakin’s atmospheric Sierra Nevada landscape, also estimated at $3,000–$5,000. The sale further includes Roger Herman’s Flugel (1978), estimated at $2,000–$4,000; Erté’s signed and editioned bronze bowl Trois Femmes, estimated at $2,000–$4,000; and a signed Salvador Dalí Symbols portfolio, estimated at $2,000–$4,000, reflecting the auction’s broad appeal to both traditional and modern collectors.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture & Decorative Arts department presents an equally compelling offering anchored by a monumental palace-size Persian Kirman carpet. Additional highlights include an Art Deco sterling silver four-piece tea and coffee service, estimated at $4,000–$6,000; an Egyptian Revival ibis stool, estimated at $1,200–$1,500; and an intricate Italian micromosaic paperweight, estimated at $600–$800, offering collectors an exceptional range of decorative objects spanning multiple periods and styles.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

Jewelry enthusiasts will discover a carefully curated selection of estate and designer pieces featuring exceptional gemstones, enameling, and fine goldwork. Highlights include a diamond, green enamel, and 18k gold bangle, estimated at $3,500–$4,500; an Alexander Marchak Paris turquoise, ruby, diamond, cultured pearl, and 18k gold brooch, estimated at $4,000–$6,000; a Boris Le Beau coral, diamond, jade, and 18k gold figural brooch, estimated at $3,000–$5,000; a pair of Gaston Lebo blue enamel, rock crystal, and 18k gold ear clips, estimated at $1,500–$2,500; and an Indian multi-color sapphire and fabric necklace, estimated at $2,000–$4,000.

Asian Art

Asian Works of Art will offer collectors an exceptional group of jade carvings and decorative works highlighted by a Chinese green jadeite “three abundance” pendant, estimated at $15,000–$20,000. Additional highlights include a Chinese white jade and spinach jade pendant necklace, estimated at $2,000–$4,000; a painting by contemporary Balinese artist Anak Agung Gde Anom Sukawati, estimated at $3,000–$5,000; and a Japanese six-panel folding screen, estimated at $2,000–$4,000, illustrating the diversity and enduring appeal of Asian artistic traditions.

The Warehouse Auction: August 15th

Following the Gallery Auction, Clars’ Warehouse Auction on Saturday, August 15th, presents an expansive offering of furniture, decorative arts, fine art, jewelry, and collectibles from estates and consignments throughout the region. Known for its wide-ranging selection and accessible price points, the Warehouse Auction continues to attract seasoned collectors, decorators, and first-time buyers alike in search of distinctive and unexpected finds.

Clars Wine Cellar Auction: August 17th

The August auction series concludes on Monday, August 17th, with the Clars Wine Cellar Timed Only Auction, featuring a selection of nearly 70 lots from a distinguished single-owner cellar. The sale is highlighted by wines from Peter Michael, Kamen, Chateau Montelena, Kistler, and Laparita, along with an exceptional selection of Cabernet Sauvignon from many of Sonoma and Napa Valley’s premier vintners. Offering opportunities for both seasoned collectors and enthusiasts, the auction presents an outstanding selection of fine and rare wines ideal for collecting, cellaring, and entertaining.

Miles away from the foggy mornings, overcast afternoons, and chilly evenings of July in the Bay Area is the sun-warmed island of Key West, Florida, where the white sand, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back pace invite you to relax and enjoy a moment of quiet tranquility.

These moments are the ones chosen by Cuban American folk artist Mario Sanchez (1908–2005) to immortalize in his charming and singular relief panels. Sanchez was born and raised on the island, working from his home studio for over 70 years and creating a treasury of everyday scenes that harken back to a simpler time. Sanchez’s colorfully painted and carved reliefs depict landmarks like the Hemingway House and the 150-year-old lighthouse, a waterfront bait-and-tackle shop, well-loved bungalows, palm trees, and of course, the unique characters of Old Key West.

The brightly colored panel in our July auction, titled Old Key West – Everything in Profusion, shows a section of Duval Street, a main thoroughfare of the town and the center of local Cuban influence, where a fruit stand is packed with bananas and watermelons. A bicyclist pedals past, his baskets reading “Sure Cure with Doctor Santiago,” and a trio of floppy-eared dogs follow behind. The blue sky overhead, decorated with Sanchez’s signature fluffy clouds, and the vibrant hues of the flowering plants imbue the scene with a peaceful energy. This highly collectible piece of history from the United States’ southernmost city is the centerpiece of your beach house, the reminder of a fabulous vacation, or your ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. Old Key West – Everything in Profusion is estimated at $20,000–$40,000.