Our Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction on February 20th will feature many exceptional works by renowned artists. One of the standout pieces is The Summit Conference (1986), an oil painting by John Alexander estimated at $30,000–$50,000.

Known for his atmospheric depictions of the Gulf Coast’s bayou landscapes, Alexander infuses his paintings with surrealist elements, such as skeletons in formal wear and masked figures. The work on offer features two baboons facing off against one another, with intense, expressive brushstrokes suggesting a deeper political commentary during the tense era of the Reykjavik Summit talks between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev.

Marc Chagall, revered worldwide for his ability to blend diverse artistic techniques into a distinct, dreamlike style, is particularly known for integrating his Jewish heritage into his art.

Chagall‘s vivid, often surreal compositions are alive with color, and his use of blue — which has been interpreted as symbolizing spirituality and divinity — is particularly notable. Drawing from his personal experiences and Jewish folk traditions, Chagall’s works come alive with a sense of movement and emotion, making them both fantastical and deeply personal.

Among the highlights of the auction are two rare works on paper by Chagall, L’hiver: Procession de Noël (Les quatre saisons) (1974) and Le Dimanche (circa 1939), each carrying an estimate of $300,000–$500,000.

In L’hiver, Chagall presents an enchanting scene filled with angelic figures in the sky, joyful dancers, a fantastical half-human, half-hen figure with her young, and a procession of Christmas revelers. This eclectic composition echoes Chagall’s 1974 mosaic Four Seasons in Chicago’s Chase Tower, where he similarly fused vibrant, animated figures with animals and abstract forms. This work exemplifies Chagall’s later style, where his compositions often feel spontaneous and unrestrained.

Le Dimanche, created around 1939, depicts a tranquil rural scene with a couple strolling past a goat and a chicken. The horned goat, a recurring symbol in Chagall’s work, is often linked to his childhood in the shtetl and is sometimes interpreted as an allegory for the artist himself. The piece also reflects Chagall’s connection to the innocent life he left behind, likely providing him with solace during the uncertain period of World War II. Both of these works, created with gouache, pastel, and mixed media, are rich in color and texture, showcasing Chagall’s masterful use of materials.

Clars Auctions is excited to announce its upcoming Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on Friday, February 21st, 9:30 AM PST. This event will feature a curated selection of pieces from artists and craftsmen, spanning centuries and continents.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Among the highlights of this auction is a 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL, showcasing a nearly pristine interior and exterior, previously featured in an international Mercedes periodical.

Additionally, the sale will include a wide range of antique and contemporary furniture, with notable pieces from Michael Taylor and Parish-Hadley-designed interiors. The decorative arts category will offer a Louis Vuitton monogram trunk, sterling silver items, Native American baskets, and an impressive selection of rugs and carpets.

Fine Art

This auction also features pre-war Californian, American, and international art, including paintings, works on paper, and sculptures in various styles. The works come from globally recognized artists, providing an exciting opportunity to acquire pieces that reflect diverse artistic traditions and movements.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

The jewelry section promises an incredible collection of wearable gold pieces, from timeless classics to bold, one-of-a-kind statement designs. This sale will offer a range of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings—each crafted to complement the wearer’s personal style. Whether you’re seeking a versatile accessory or a standout piece to make a statement, there is something for every taste, blending traditional elegance with modern flair.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department is offering remarkable pieces in our upcoming auction, including a stunning set of Chinese 24-karat gold zodiac figures, featuring all twelve zodiac animals rendered in high karat gold.

The ceramic section will include a Chinese famille rose ‘three rams’ vase from the late Qing dynasty, decorated in the Qianlong style with a continuous scene symbolizing the change of fortune and the arrival of Spring.

Another highlight is a Chinese embroidered apricot-ground lady’s informal robe featuring roundels of butterflies, flower sprigs, and cranes — symbols of longevity and birthday celebrations.

The Warehouse Auction: February 22nd

The Warehouse Auction offers a dynamic and diverse selection of art, prints, and photographs, with each month featuring a curated mix of paintings, sculptures, and works from across the globe, all with accessible estimates. The Asian Art section will showcase a thoughtfully curated array, including Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and other fine decorative items. In the Jewelry Department, we are thrilled to present a range of affordable pieces, from diamonds to silver and gold necklaces. Additionally, The Warehouse boasts an accessible priced collection that encompasses modern and antique furniture and décor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, collectible toys, books, and indigenous arts.

On February 20th in our Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork from masters like Marc Chagall, Wayne Thiebaud, John Alexander, Andy Warhol, and much more. The auction will begin at 10 AM PST. Preview February 19th, 1–5 PM PST.

Chagall, revered worldwide for his ability to blend diverse artistic techniques into a distinct, dreamlike style, is particularly known for integrating his Jewish heritage into his art. His vivid, often surreal compositions are alive with color, and his use of blue — which has been interpreted as symbolizing spirituality and divinity — is particularly notable. Drawing from his personal experiences and Jewish folk traditions, Chagall’s works come alive with a sense of movement and emotion, making them both fantastical and deeply personal.

Among the highlights of the auction are two rare works on paper by Chagall, L’hiver: Procession de Noël (Les quatre saisons) (1974) and Le Dimanche (circa 1939), each carrying an estimate of $300,000–$500,000.

In L’hiver, Chagall presents an enchanting scene filled with angelic figures in the sky, joyful dancers, a fantastical half-human, half-hen figure with her young, and a procession of Christmas revelers. This eclectic composition echoes Chagall’s 1974 mosaic Four Seasons in Chicago’s Chase Tower, where he similarly fused vibrant, animated figures with animals and abstract forms. This work exemplifies Chagall’s later style, where his compositions often feel spontaneous and unrestrained.

Le Dimanche, created around 1939, depicts a tranquil rural scene with a couple strolling past a goat and a chicken. The horned goat, a recurring symbol in Chagall’s work, is often linked to his childhood in the shtetl and is sometimes interpreted as an allegory for the artist himself. The piece also reflects Chagall’s connection to the innocent life he left behind, likely providing him with solace during the uncertain period of World War II. Both of these works, created with gouache, pastel, and mixed media, are rich in color and texture, showcasing Chagall’s masterful use of materials.

In addition to Chagall, this auction will feature other exceptional works by renowned modern and contemporary artists. One of the standout pieces is The Summit Conference (1986), an oil painting by John Alexander estimated at $30,000–$50,000. Known for his atmospheric depictions of the Gulf Coast’s bayou landscapes, Alexander infuses his paintings with surrealist elements, such as skeletons in formal wear and masked figures. The work on offer features two baboons facing off against one another, with intense, expressive brushstrokes suggesting a deeper political commentary during the tense era of the Reykjavik Summit talks between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev.

Also featured is Vote McGovern, an iconic screenprint by Andy Warhol, estimated $30,000–$50,000. This politically charged work from 1972 reinterprets a photograph of Richard Nixon, using a vivid color palette that references First Lady Pat Nixon’s dress. The unsettling portrait, created to support George McGovern’s presidential campaign, is a striking example of Warhol’s ability to blend art with political activism.

Additionally, Siddhartha’s Contemplation No. 2, an oil painting by Sri Lankan artist Senaka Senanayake, will also be featured with an estimate of $18,000–$24,000. Known for his lush depictions of the rainforest and his signature translucent layering technique, Senanayake’s works often explore Buddhist themes of impermanence and interconnectedness. This particular piece, inspired by the meditation of Siddhartha Gautama (the historical Buddha), reflects Senanayake’s serene, colorful approach to spirituality.

Other notable works in this month’s auction include pieces by Wayne Thiebaud, Roy Lichtenstein, John McCracken, Robert Arneson, and Hunt Slonem — making it a must-attend event for collectors and art enthusiasts alike.

This January at Clars we are excited to offer unique works by the fascinating artist, Cady Wells, whose style was inspired by Southwestern desert landscapes and topography.

Wells was born in Massachusetts in 1904 and was raised in a household that valued arts education, taking music, literature, and fine arts classes in his youth. Despite his interest in cultural education, Wells did not fare well in the boarding schools he attended, and after dropping out of several New England academies, he was sent to Arizona in 1992 where he fell in love with the desert landscape. By 1932, Wells had decided on painting as his artistic path forward and was invited to stay at the artist’s colony in Santa Fe, New Mexico, which was also home to Georgia O’Keeffe, Andrew Dasburg, and a host of poets and writers at the time.

Wells began exhibiting alongside artists including Mark Tobey, Morris Graves, and Jackson Pollack while living between Taos and Santa Fe, and during this time the painter came to terms with his sexuality, entering a committed relationship with author and poet Myron Brinig. Wells’ relationship and career were interrupted by his service in World War II. While serving in Germany during the last nine months of the war, Wells worked with topographic maps, the influence of which is apparent in his subsequent work. Upon returning to New Mexico in 1945, Wells remained deeply affected by what he had seen in Europe, and by his own home’s proximity to the nuclear testing site at Los Alamos. He spent his final years traveling the world while remaining anchored in New Mexico, and finally finding national recognition with exhibitions in New York City, Chicago, and San Francisco, before his premature death from heart failure in 1953 at the age of 49.

Wells stands out among his peers for being a truly original artist whose abstract compositions emulate only the curves and colors of the Southwestern landscape and avoid recalling the techniques and styles of any other painter. His work remains a hidden gem among the swaths of artists who have flocked to Taos and Santa Fe over the years, never quite gaining the same reputation as his local contemporaries who favored traditional landscapes and figural painting over emotive and avant garde abstraction. The works in this month’s auction show a range of Wells’ stylistic variety, with examples displaying his interest in topographic maps as well as his prowess in color, form, and movement.

Clars is excited to announce our upcoming January 17th auction featuring a curated selection of Furniture, Fine Art, Jewelry, and Asian Art, offering collectors and connoisseurs the opportunity to acquire diverse works from renowned artists and craftsmen.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The January auction offers an impressive range of Contemporary and European furniture, alongside sterling silver, ceramics, glass, and fine rugs and carpets. Key highlights from this category include a collection of Mata Ortiz pottery, celebrated for its intricate handwork and connection to ancient Mexican traditions.

Additionally, there are exquisite pieces of German Art Nouveau and Regency period sterling, as well as striking Bagues-style rock crystal sconces that exemplify the elegance of French lighting design. A particularly rare inclusion is a 1665 antiquarian book, Il Nuovo Teatro delle Fabriche, which provides a visual record of 17th-century Rome, capturing the architectural grandeur of the period.

Fine Art

This January’s auction also celebrates the legacy of Cady Wells, an artist whose life and work embody a deep connection to both the American Southwest and the larger avant-garde movement. Born in 1904 in Massachusetts, Wells’ early years were shaped by a strong cultural and artistic education. However, it wasn’t until moving to Arizona in 1932 that he discovered his true artistic calling. Immersing himself in the New Mexico art scene, Wells exhibited alongside contemporaries such as Mark Tobey, Morris Graves, and Jackson Pollock. His work is distinguished by abstract compositions that evoke the curves and colors of the Southwestern landscape, often influenced by his time working with topographic maps during World War II.

While Wells never garnered the same fame as his fellow artists in Taos and Santa Fe, his unique approach to abstraction has been gaining recognition in recent years. The auction will feature a selection of his works that showcase his mastery of color, form, and movement, as well as his innovative interpretations of the desert terrain.

Additionally, we will offer works by Bibi Zogbe, Domenico Gnoli, and Emilio Grau Sala, further enhancing the breadth of our Fine Art offerings.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

This auction also includes a stunning array of fine jewelry, offering some of the most sought-after pieces in the world of luxury. From dazzling diamonds to vibrant gemstones, the collection includes an exceptional selection of rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that are sure to captivate collectors. Among the highlights are a Jacob & Co. diamond chain necklace valued between $60,000–$80,000, and a striking padparadscha diamond and bi-color gold ring, estimated at $7,000–$10,000. Whether you’re seeking a timeless diamond engagement ring or a statement pendant, this auction offers an unparalleled selection of pieces that showcase both beauty and craftsmanship.

The auction also includes an exclusive selection of luxury timepieces from renowned brands such as Piaget and Maurice LaCroix, perfect for watch enthusiasts and collectors of fine horology. With its diverse offerings, this jewelry session promises to be an unforgettable experience for those seeking rare and exquisite treasures.

Asian Art

The Asian Art portion of the auction features important works from China, including a late 18th to early 19th century Chinese brocade blue-ground dragon skirt, which was commissioned by the Qing imperial court for exclusive use by the royal family. This regal textile represents the opulence and craftsmanship of the Qing dynasty.

Also included is a Chinese imitation bronze-glazed hu-form vase from the Republic period, featuring a wide band of confronting dragons and elephant-head handles, a tribute to the Qianlong period style. These items, among other fine examples of Asian art, offer a rare glimpse into the artistic traditions of China’s imperial past.

The Warehouse Auction: January 18th

The Warehouse auction offers a dynamic and diverse selection of art, prints, and photographs, with each month featuring a curated mix of paintings, sculptures, and works from across the globe, all with accessible estimates. The Asian Art section will showcase a thoughtfully curated array, including Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and other fine decorative items. In the Jewelry department, we are thrilled to present a range of affordable pieces, from diamonds to silver and gold necklaces. Additionally, The Warehouse boasts an accessible priced collection that encompasses modern and antique furniture and decor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, rugs, books, collectibles and indigenous arts. Collections include charming Royal Bayreuth porcelain figural items, as well as a collection of semi-precious stones and minerals, and fossils.

As we bid farewell to 2024, we take a moment to reflect on the remarkable moments and milestones we’ve shared with you throughout the year.

We are deeply grateful for your continued trust and support — your enthusiasm has been the driving force behind our success at Clars Auctions. It has truly been our privilege to present such an exceptional array of fine art, antiques, and collectibles.

Fine Art

This year, our auctions delivered impressive results across many categories. Some of the highlights include our Summer Fine Art Auction, where Salvador Dalí’s Portrait of Mrs. Luther Greene (1942) achieved $720,000, and the Fall Fine Art Auction, which saw William Merritt Chase’s A Mother’s Joy (1889) sell for $378,000.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

Our Fine Jewelry & Watches auctions were also highly successful. A Cartier 18k gold Monaco wristwatch fetched $50,400, while a Bulgari blue chalcedony necklace in our Luxury Jewelry Auction sold for $17,640. Additionally, a pair of ‘A Grade’ jadeite and platinum ear clips brought in $88,200.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

In the Furniture & Decorative Arts category, a striking Niamh Barry copper and glass light fixture sold for $50,400, and a French gilt bronze Madonna and Child reached $47,250.

Asian Art

Asian Art proved to be another standout in 2024. Notable sales included Zhang Daqian’s Setting Sail, which realized $69,300, and a Chinese jadeite wine cup set from December that fetched $44,100. Our December Fine Asian Auction also featured a rare Yongzheng-period robin’s egg glazed hu-form vase, which sold for $630,000, and a Chinese famille rose ‘landscape’ porcelain plaque by Zhang Zhitang (1893–1971), which achieved $163,800.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited about the upcoming auctions, which will feature even more extraordinary works. We look forward to continuing this journey with you and discovering new treasures together in the year ahead. On behalf of the entire team at Clars Auctions, we wish you a joyful and prosperous New Year filled with success and exciting new collecting adventures.

With a rich and diverse selection of fine furniture, art, jewelry, and fine Asian works, the December 20th Auction at Clars is an unmissable event for collectors and art enthusiasts alike.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The December auction features a wide selection of fine furniture, decorative arts, and collectibles. Highlights include a stunning range of Contemporary and European furniture, as well as sterling silver, porcelain, glass, rugs, and carpets. Among the most notable items is a collection of Tiffany Studios bronze desk accessories, including rare and unique pieces.

Also featured are studio-turned wood vessels, including a remarkable Philip Moulthrop vase, and an exceptional offering of Otto and Vivika Heino and Plia Pillin pottery. For those looking for the perfect gift, the auction also includes luxury pens from brands like Cartier and Montblanc, along with Louis Vuitton and Gucci handbags, rounding out a diverse selection ideal for collectors and holiday shoppers alike.

Fine Art

The Fine Art portion of the auction is highlighted by an exciting group of works from both celebrated and lesser known masters. A major highlight is a series of four sculptures by Sidney Gordin (1918–1996), the Russian-born American artist known for his innovative approach to abstraction. Gordin, a key figure in the Bay Area art scene, worked alongside other influential artists like Joan Brown and Peter Voulkas. His works in this auction — including two carved and painted wood relief panels, a small 1971 bronze, and a large welded steel sculpture — demonstrate his unique ability to merge geometric and organic forms in striking ways. These pieces are estimated at $8,000–$12,000 each.

Also featured is a stunning oil painting by Istvan Csok (1865–1961), a prominent Hungarian Impressionist, depicting two women on the banks of the Danube River. The painting captures the essence of Hungarian tradition and is expected to attract strong interest with an estimate of $10,000–$15,000.

Other noteworthy works include a screenprint by Yayoi Kusama (b. 1929), famed for her iconic pumpkin motif, valued at $25,000–$35,000, and a vibrant geometric screenprint by Bridget Riley (b. 1931), estimated at $4,000–$6,000. Additionally, the auction features a bronze sculpture by Maximilien Louis Fiot (1886–1953) depicting two panthers, estimated at $6,000–$9,000. This dynamic selection of modern and contemporary art is sure to captivate collectors with its range and quality.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

For jewelry lovers, this auction is an extraordinary opportunity to acquire rare and exquisite pieces. The Fine Jade & Holiday Jewelry Sale is a standout feature, showcasing a captivating collection of jade jewelry, ranging from intricately carved pendants and bracelets to elegant earrings and rings. A highlight of the jade selection is a pair of A-grade jadeite and platinum earrings, estimated at $20,000–$40,000, and a magnificent jadeite bead necklace, estimated at $25,000–$35,000.

In addition to the jade offerings, the sale also presents a stunning array of fine jewelry featuring diamonds, pearls, and colored gemstones. For watch collectors, Clars is offering two exceptional timepieces: a Rolex stainless steel Explorer II wristwatch, estimated at $7,000–$10,000, and a highly coveted Patek Philippe stainless steel Nautilus wristwatch, estimated at $80,000–$100,000. This selection is a must for those seeking to add to their collection or to find a special gift for the season.

Asian Art

The Asian Art section of the auction will be led by a truly exceptional Chinese Robin’s egg-glazed hu-form vase from the Yongzheng period (1723–1735). This rare Qing Imperial vase, celebrated for its distinctive glaze, is one of the finest examples of monochrome porcelain from the Yongzheng and Qianlong periods. Created by the famed kiln supervisor Tang Ying, this beautiful glaze represents a reinterpretation of the Jun glazes from the Song dynasty and exemplifies the highest level of porcelain craftsmanship of its time. This iconic piece, with its deep cultural significance, is expected to draw significant attention from collectors of Asian art.

The Warehouse Auction: December 21st

The Warehouse Auction offers a dynamic and diverse selection of art, prints, and photographs, with each month featuring a curated mix of paintings, sculptures, and works from across the globe, all with accessible estimates. The Asian Art section will showcase a thoughtfully curated array, including Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and other fine decorative items. In the Jewelry department, we are thrilled to present a range of affordable pieces, from diamonds to silver and gold necklaces. Additionally, The Warehouse boasts an accessibly priced collection that encompasses modern and antique furniture and decor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, rugs, books, collectibles, and indigenous arts. Highlights include fine glass Christmas ornaments from Daum, Lalique, Baccarat, and Christopher Radko, as well as toys such as Steiff animals and model trains.