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–$2,500. The decorative arts selection also features a monumental pair of Indian metal-clad candle prickets, estimated at $1,500–$2,500.

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 $8,000–$12,000. 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 $3,000–$5,000, 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–$25,000.

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.

Among the Furniture & Decorative Arts highlights at Clars Auctions’ July 17th Gallery Auction are three extraordinary lots that tell a fascinating story of California’s early political, financial, and cultural history.

Together, they trace the intersecting legacies of Governor Milton Slocum Latham and railroad magnate Mark Hopkins — two figures whose lives helped shape the Golden State during the nineteenth century.

At the center of this narrative is a rare set of Herter Brothers armchairs, commissioned circa 1872 for the billiard room of Governor Milton Slocum Latham’s Menlo Park estate, Thurlow Lodge. Celebrated as America’s premier cabinetmakers during the Gilded Age, Herter Brothers furnished many of the country’s most prestigious residences, and these chairs stand as exceptional examples of their craftsmanship. Following Latham’s financial collapse and death in 1882, Thurlow Lodge and its contents were purchased by Mary K. Hopkins, widow of railroad executive Mark Hopkins, weaving the furnishings of one prominent California family into the legacy of another. The armchairs remained within the Hopkins family until they were sold as part of the estate in 1942.

Further strengthening this remarkable connection is an 1878 carved marble bust of Mark Hopkins by Italian sculptor Pietro Mezzara. Executed during the same year as Hopkins’ death, the portrait captures one of the famed “Big Four” railroad pioneers whose vision transformed transportation and commerce throughout the American West. Offered alongside the Herter Brothers armchairs, the bust provides collectors with an exceptional opportunity to acquire objects connected through one of California’s most distinguished historical estates.

Completing the grouping is a beautiful Baccarat opaline glass vase dated 1867, produced during the same year the renowned French glassmaker exhibited at the Paris Exposition Universelle. Unlike the furnishings from Thurlow Lodge, the vase descends directly through the family of Governor Latham, offering an unbroken lineage to one of California’s earliest political leaders.

Together, these exceptional works represent far more than fine examples of decorative arts. They embody the intertwined histories of two influential California families, preserving a tangible connection to the personalities, homes, and ambitions that shaped the state’s Gilded Age. Opportunities to acquire objects with such well-documented provenance and historical continuity are increasingly rare, making this grouping a standout feature of Clars’ July 17th Gallery Auction

Continuing the offering from the celebrated Emmy and Dolph Andrews Estate this past February, Clars is pleased to present in the July 17th Gallery Auction another selection from one of San Francisco’s most distinguished private collections.

Emily Taylor Andrews and Adolphus “Dolph” Andrews Jr. were descendants of California pioneers and longtime figures in the city’s cultural and philanthropic circles. Their legacy of connoisseurship, refined taste, and commitment to preserving the decorative arts was reflected throughout the elegant interiors of their San Francisco residence, designed by renowned interior designers Michael Taylor and Anthony Hail.

The July offering presents another opportunity to acquire works that once furnished these storied interiors. Leading the collection is a remarkable pair of Attilio Codognato semi-precious stone-mounted silver-gilt Venetian figures, estimated at $6,000–$8,000. Created by the celebrated Venetian jeweler and designer, the sculptures exemplify Codognato’s signature blend of Renaissance inspiration, exquisite craftsmanship, and luxurious materials.

Additional highlights from the Andrews Collection include a pair of French faience or Delft blue and white orangerie urns, estimated at $600–$800, an elegant S.T. Dupont leather and Lacque de Chine lacquer dressing case, estimated at $500–$700, a dramatic pair of Italian polychrome figural pedestals, and a distinguished pair of 19th-century Russian Nicholas I mahogany brass-mounted armchairs, estimated at $1,000–$2,000. Together, these pieces reflect the Andrews’ appreciation for exceptional European craftsmanship and timeless design — qualities that defined their remarkable collection.

As another chapter in the offering of the Andrews Estate, these works invite collectors to own objects distinguished not only by their beauty and craftsmanship, but also by a provenance rooted in one of San Francisco’s most admired collecting traditions.

Clars is pleased to announce the upcoming two-day July auction series, featuring the Gallery Auction on Friday, July 17th, followed by the Warehouse Auction on Saturday, July 18th. Collectors, designers, dealers, and art enthusiasts will discover a thoughtfully curated selection of fine art, Asian art, furniture, decorative arts, jewelry, and estate property, offering opportunities across a wide range of collecting categories.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Furniture & Decorative Arts highlights are led by a Herter Brothers armchair, one of only three commissioned for Thurlow Lodge, with an estimate of $8,000–$12,000. Renowned for furnishing many of America’s most prestigious Gilded Age interiors, Herter Brothers pieces remain among the most coveted examples of 19th-century American furniture.

The sale also features an impressive selection of decorative arts, including two Carlton Ware luster articles in the celebrated ‘Chinatown’ pattern, estimated at $400–$600, and two Carlton Ware pottery luster vases decorated with the ‘Magical Tree and Heron’ and ‘Tree and Cloud’ motifs, estimated at $800–$1,200.

Additional highlights include an English Rococo-style gold-mounted agate patch or pill box, estimated at $800–$1,200, and a large signed Baccarat opaline glass vase, estimated at $2,500–$3,500. Together, these pieces offer collectors exceptional examples of European decorative arts, fine craftsmanship, and timeless design.

Fine Art

Leading the Fine Art category is an exceptional carved wood relief by Mario Sanchez. Old Key West – Everything in Profusion is a vibrant oil on carved and painted wood relief that captures the colorful character and architectural charm of historic Key West. Signed and titled by the artist, the work is expected to realize $20,000–$40,000.

Additional Fine Art highlights include Henrietta Berk’s Green Valley Road, a richly colored oil on canvas signed and titled by the artist, estimated at $7,000–$10,000. Also featured is Charles Reiffel’s Untitled (Trees Along Water’s Edge with Buttes in the Distance), an atmospheric oil on canvas estimated at $6,000–$9,000.

Completing the category highlights is Ira Yeager’s Untitled (Snow Leopard), an expressive oil on canvas estimated at $3,000–$5,000. Together, these works represent a compelling selection of American art spanning Impressionist landscapes, California scenes, folk art, and contemporary wildlife painting.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

The Fine Jewelry & Watches department offers an elegant selection of jewelry and luxury watches, led by a Rolex 14k gold hidden watch bracelet, estimated at $4,000–$6,000. Combining the prestige of the Rolex name with the sophistication of a concealed bracelet watch design, this piece is expected to attract significant interest from both watch collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

Additional highlights include a striking diamond and platinum ring, estimated at $2,000–$3,000, showcasing the enduring appeal of classic platinum-set diamonds. Also featured is an antique turquoise, blue diamond, 14k, and 18k gold pendant necklace, estimated at $700–$1,000, offering collectors a distinctive example of antique craftsmanship with vibrant gemstone accents. Together, these pieces present a refined cross-section of fine jewelry and luxury accessories, ranging from collectible watches to elegant diamond and gemstone designs.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department presents a refined collection of Japanese cloisonné enamels and Chinese textiles, highlighting the extraordinary craftsmanship of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Among the featured offerings is a Japanese cloisonné enamel carp vase by Ando Jubei, estimated at $3,000–$5,000, alongside a Japanese cloisonné enamel vase by Gonda Hirosuke, also estimated at $3,000–$5,000.

Additional highlights include a Japanese cloisonné enamel wisteria vase attributed to Hayashi Kodenji, estimated at $1,500–$2,500, a Japanese cloisonné vase estimated at $1,500–$2,500, and a Japanese cloisonné enamel sake pot in the style of Namikawa Yasuyuki, estimated at $2,000–$4,000.

Complementing these exceptional enamels is a Chinese blue-ground silk brocade dragon robe, estimated at $2,000–$4,000. This carefully selected group reflects the remarkable artistry and technical mastery that continue to make Japanese cloisonné and Chinese court textiles highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

The Warehouse Auction: July 18th

Following the Gallery Auction, the July 18th Warehouse Auction features hundreds of additional lots from estates and private collections.The sale includes furniture, decorative arts, fine art, collectibles, home furnishings, and unique discoveries across a wide range of price points, making it an ideal opportunity for both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers. Whether searching for antiques, interior furnishings, or one-of-a-kind estate finds, bidders will find an exciting array of opportunities throughout the sale.

The objects an artist chooses to keep often tell a story that formal histories cannot. Gathered over decades, the works in Viola Frey’s personal collection trace a network of friendships, mentorships, artistic affinities, and shared histories.

The Artists’ Legacy Foundation and Clars are pleased to present a benefit auction offering access to this deeply personal constellation of objects and the vibrant creative community from which it emerged on June 18th, beginning 10 AM PDT.

Together, these works illuminate a remarkable chapter in Bay Area art history. They reflect the creative community that surrounded Frey and the artistic currents that shaped the region from the 1970s through the 1990s — from functional ceramics and experimental sculpture to the vibrant culture of California College of Arts and Crafts.

Viola Frey collected with care. Every work in the auction was made by an artist who was part of her extended community. During her tenure at California College of Arts and Crafts from 1963–1999, Frey taught and mentored generations of artists. Beginning as a part-time teaching assistant and “resident potter,” she became a tenured professor and helped guide the design and construction of the Noni Eccles Treadwell Ceramics Art Center, known as “the Pot Shop,” in 1973.

The expansive collection to be offered at Clars includes works by Frey’s colleagues and students at California College of the Arts as well as pieces by popular ceramicists and fine artists including Richard Blake Shaw, Arthur E. Nelson, Marguerite Wildenhain, and more. From functional pieces like whimsical tea sets and elegant vases to finely rendered sculptural work, there is something for every collector to admire in this treasure trove.

Frey’s life in the Bay Area intersected with many of the defining artistic and social movements of the late twentieth century: abstraction and figuration, Funk art, Hippie counter-culture, LGBTQ+ activism, and the AIDS crisis. The works in this auction bear witness to those histories and to the community of artists with whom Frey lived, worked, and taught.

While best known for her ceramic monumental sculptures, Frey’s artmaking spanned more than 40 years and encompassed paintings, drawings, and bronze and glass sculptures. Frey was obsessively devoted to her practice and produced thousands of artworks during her lifetime.

Her work explores social constructs, marks of civilization, and gender dynamics, and features a thoughtfully built iconography including suited men, hands, and cast figurines. Her work in clay was ahead of its time, bridging the gap between craft and fine art, while pushing the boundaries of ceramic sculpture.

The Artists’ Legacy Foundation stewards Frey’s legacy and advances the preservation of artists’ estates. Proceeds from this auction support our ongoing work to expand scholarship on Frey, care for her archive, and provide educational resources for artists planning their own legacies. We hope these works find homes who value not only their individual histories, but also their connection to Frey and this extraordinary moment in Bay Area art.

Clars is pleased to present its upcoming June 19th Gallery Auction, offering an exceptional selection of Fine Art, Asian Works of Art, Furniture, Decorative Arts, and Design. The sale will feature important paintings, rare Asian objects, fine furnishings, and decorative pieces spanning centuries of craftsmanship and collecting traditions.

Fine Art

Leading the Fine Art offerings is Chaparral Hills (1918) by celebrated Western artist Maynard Dixon (American, 1875–1946). Executed in oil on canvas and signed and dated lower right, the work exemplifies Dixon’s iconic depictions of the American landscape through bold composition and rich tonal atmosphere. The painting carries an estimate of $15,000–$25,000.

Also featured is Yosemite View by Thomas Hill (American, 1829–1908), an important California landscape painter renowned for his romantic portrayals of the American West. The oil on canvas painting, signed lower right, captures the grandeur and serenity of Yosemite’s natural beauty and is estimated at $6,000–$9,000.

Asian Art

The Asian Works of Art department will present an impressive selection of Chinese and Japanese objects highlighting exceptional craftsmanship and historical significance. Among the leading lots is a Chinese four-panel rosewood, burlwood, and famille verte porcelain screen from the 19th century, estimated at $4,000–$6,000. Also featured is a pair of Chinese famille rose ‘bats’ bowls bearing Daoguang marks and of the period, estimated at $5,000–$7,000. The duo reflects the refined porcelain artistry of the Qing dynasty.

Additional highlights include Ananda by renowned Japanese artist Munakata Shiko (1903–1975), estimated at $3,000–$5,000, as well as a Japanese export sterling tea service by Arthur & Bond of Yokohama, estimated at $4,000–$6,000, showcasing the elegance and craftsmanship associated with one of Japan’s most celebrated export silversmiths.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Complementing the sale is an exceptional presentation of Furniture and Decorative Arts, showcasing European and American antiques, modern and contemporary design, fine silver, ceramics, lighting, and decorative objects. Collectors can anticipate a thoughtfully curated offering of elegant case furniture, seating, mirrors, garden elements, and designer furnishings, paired with distinctive decorative accessories that span traditional to modern aesthetics.

The department continues to attract discerning collectors and interior designers alike with pieces that seamlessly combine functionality, craftsmanship, and enduring appeal. Highlights include: a large Tiffany & Co. sterling ice bucket, estimated at $7,000–$10,000; a collection of 60 American flag paperweights, including a rare pair of dual American and Italian flag glass paperweights, estimated at $400–$600; Kip Stewart’s Bronze Age collection outdoor patio suite, estimated at $6,000–$9,000; a Christian Dior porcelain dinner service in the Casablanca pattern, estimated at $2,000–$3,000; and a Spanish Vargueño cabinet, circa 1820, estimated at $1,000–$1,500.

The Warehouse Auction: June 20th

The series concludes on Saturday, June 20th with The Warehouse Auction, an eclectic and accessible sale offering decorative arts, furnishings, collectibles, and estate material. Known for its breadth and opportunity, this auction provides bidders with the chance to discover unique pieces and exceptional value across numerous collecting categories.